I personally believe that the Pomaks are not a separate ethnic group but are Bulgarians whose ancestors changed their religion.
The Character of Bulgarians
As I traveled through Bulgaria, I came to appreciate the characteristics of the Bulgarian people. I don’t say they are an easy group to love. In fact, their quiet nature, seriousness, and even their roughness—especially in the countryside—have led some travelers to dislike them. However, despite these qualities, they are solid and reliable people. One important virtue they possess, especially in a land so close to the East, is that they are truthful. Bulgarians also care a lot about owning land, and almost every Bulgarian is interested in politics Adventure Balkan Tours.
The Heat of Thrace and Escape to the Hills
Sometimes, the heat in the plains of Thrace can make the air in Philippopolis feel as hot and sticky as a Turkish bath. I remember one day, after struggling in the suffocating heat, my Bulgarian friend—a journalist—and I decided to escape by going to a monastery in the cool hills for a night’s sleep. We rode south towards Macedonia.
The Journey to St. Petka Monastery
Part of our journey was along the old road to Constantinople, which was covered in a thick layer of dust. Whether it was a buffalo cart or a horse rider, everything was hidden in a cloud of dust. Trying to pass a cart or a horse was like riding through a choking, blinding dust storm A Night in the Monastery.
We were heading towards the little monastery of St. Petka. There had been a local church festival, and many peasants, dressed in bright clothes, were returning home after celebrating. They were not wearing simple clothes. The men’s shirts and waistcoats were full of decorations. The women wore long, greasy fringes, green jackets, and wide red skirts. They also wore silver jewelry made from coins, which was an easy way to carry wealth that could be spent quickly when needed. That’s why many of the coins you find in the border area are pierced. On patches of dry grass, groups of peasants were resting and enjoying themselves. A man played the bagpipes while a large circle formed. In the intense heat, the peasants danced the hora, moving slowly in a continuous, rhythmic circle.
