In the height of summer, this day is called Zetyovden in some parts of the country. All the sons-in-law of a family gathered at their father-in-law's house, kissed his hand and presented him with gifts as a sign of honor and respect. There is wine and fresh pita on the table. After the feast, the oldest son-in-law begins to chase the young - so the animals will be more fertile.

Folklore collection "Once upon a time - manners and worldview of the Bulgarians"

Zetyovden coincides with the church holiday dedicated to St. Machiavelli. The seven Maccabee brothers and their mother Solomonia fell victim to the Syrian ruler Antiochus IV Epiphanes. He was not so tolerant of the Jewish population, unlike his father, he destroyed a large part of their temples. The Syrian king wanted to force the family to change their faith, but when they refused, they were tortured and killed on his orders. From August 1 begins the Virgin's Lent, in the folk tradition of this day the weather for the next year is predicted.

© 2024 Iliana Dechkova