Hi, I am Marta

I am named after Baba Marta (Granny Marta) who, according to a Bulgarian folk legend, ties ‘martenitsa’ (a bracelet or a small ornament made from red and white thread) to all living creatures to wish them good health. On March 1, all Bulgarians wear martenitsas and also gift them to one another. When I was a child, we used to complete o find out who can collect most martenitsas by the end of the day (as a proof of many friendships). Martenitsas are typically worn until you see a stork outside (symbol of the spring), then it is tied to a blossoming tree for good fortune.

The rose in my hair represents our national flower, the Bulgarian rose. It is prized worldwide for its exceptional quality and fragrance. Cultivated primarily in the Rose Valley of Bulgaria, it is renowned for its use in perfumery, cosmetics and traditional medicine. The country's unique climate and soil conditions contribute to the rose's rich aroma and therapeutic properties. Bulgarian rose oil - extracted through a delicate steam distillation process - is highly valued for its calming effects and skincare benefits.

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Every year in May-June, the Valley of the Roses (situated in the heart Bulgaria) turns pink colour when the lovely Damascena roses bloom. It is a beautiful spectacle and did I mention, it smells divine? Roses are hand-picked to produce the famed rose oil. The annual Rose Festival in the town of Kazanlak has celebrated this for more than 120 years.  It features a colourful parade, the crowning of a Queen Rose, as well as numerous products made from roses - from sweets to perfumes.

Аs you might have guessed, I am a bear. Bulgaria is home to hundreds of European brown bears. We inhabit forested areas across Bulgaria. Brown bears are the largest land mammals in the country and play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. Conservation efforts, including protected areas and education programs, aim to ensure our survival while promoting coexistence with local communities.

I am wearing a traditional dress called 'nosiya'. Bulgarian traditional dresses vary by region, showcasing vibrant colours, intricate embroidery, and distinctive designs. Each region has its own unique style, reflecting the cultural diversity of Bulgaria. My nosiya represents elements from different corners of Bulgaria. ​Do you know that colours and symbols of traditional Bulgarian dresses carry hidden messages? To find out more, read the next post.

Do you know that each colour in my dress has a secret meaning? Red: health, protection. White: purity, spirituality. Black: earth, fertility. Yellow: sun, joy. Green: nature, life.

The symbol on my apron is called 'kanatitsa' - it is the oldest embroidery found on Bulgarian traditional clothes and it means 'family'. The symbol is thousands of years old and can be found in patterns all around the world – from New Zealand to Mexico – a sign that we are all connected.