BABA MARTA

One of the many traditions still alive in Bulgaria. This one is important: it is the feast of the "first of March". On this occasion, people exchange martenitza, bracelets and cords, even small dolls made of red and white threads symbolizing Baba Marta, a Bulgarian mythical figure that marks the end of the cold winter and the beginning of spring. These effigies are worn on clothes, around the neck or as bracelets as a sign of health, happiness and prosperity. The martenitza is taken off at the first stork and hung on a tree in bloom. Nice!