The traditions of any country are a mirror, which reflects its history, culture and everyday life of people. Therefore, without knowledge of traditions, it is impossible to understand the local way of life by one hundred percent. In this article we will tell you about the main traditions of Macedonia .
Features of mentality
The Macedonians are considered very hardworking, accustomed to heavy agricultural labor. By the way, most of the indigenous people of this country still prefer to live and work just outside the city. Macedonians are also called one of the most sociable and hospitable nations. Do not be surprised if you and I are always greeted here, trying to talk on the street and look shamelessly.
Macedonians are very patriotic. On the streets you will see many national flags, and any mention of their own country causes them a storm of enthusiastic emotions. About the same love of a man in Macedonia and women are experiencing - by the way, they live in the country half as much as men.
National celebrations
Every year in the territory of Macedonia there is a large number of festivals, fairs and celebrations . One of the most famous festivals is the Festival of Ohrid. It was first organized in 1961 and was held under the roof of the Church of St. Sophia . Now it is an international festival that gathers dozens of performers from all over the world. The scale of this event is also indicated by the time of its holding. The festival lasts about a month and a half from July 12 to August 20. It is interesting that each such festival organizers try to conduct in a new place historically significant for the country.
No festival and mass festival in Macedonia, as a rule, does not pass without the national Macedonian dance Tescoto. This dance is performed by men to the accompaniment of traditional Macedonian instruments - bagpipes and tapana. Slow in the beginning, by the end this dance is gaining speed, which is considered a symbol of the awakening of the nation. It is performed in national costumes. It is believed that at any celebration the Macedonians dance on tables. And in this there is nothing strange. This is an ancient custom.
Along with the holidays celebrated all over the world, such as, for example, the New Year and International Women's Day, the Macedonians celebrate their national holidays. Here are a few of them:
- May 24 - Day of Orthodox Saints Cyril and Methodius;
- August 2 - Day of the Uprising or St. Elias Day (Linden);
- September 8 - Republic Day, Independence Day.
Culinary traditions of Macedonia
Special attention should be paid to the national cuisine and the culinary preferences of the Macedonians. Pepper - this is a real "star" at the table of any Macedonian. Pepper in the country grow more than 40 varieties. Hence the love of local people for this vegetable. Black bread found in Macedonia is difficult, but white is very popular. It is accepted to dunk in sauce or soup.
But alcohol, in contrast to pepper, here is used rather restrained. White wine, as a rule, is diluted with carbonated water, and grape vodka is drunk in very small portions from glasses that are similar in size to the thimble.
A few rules of conduct in Macedonia
- Be prepared to not smoke in public places in this country.
- Particular attention in dealing with Macedonians should pay attention to the topic of conversation. It is not worth mentioning political topics, relations with Greece and other pressing issues in the conversation. And in general, try to be as tactful as possible.
- Perhaps, the Macedonians will enter you in a delusion. They are different from those common in Europe. For example, shaking your head from side to side means not denying, but consent, and nodding your head on the contrary - disagreement.
| | |
