Bulgarian Christmas Traditions 9.v

Where is Bulgaria situated?

• In Southeastern Europe

• In Central Europe

• In Southwestern Europe

• In Western Europe

Answer explanation

Almost one-third of Bulgaria is covered in forests. Approximately 35% of Bulgaria's land area is designated as natural protective areas. These areas include national parks, nature reserves, protected landscapes, and protected areas under various categories.

What is the predominant religion in Bulgaria?

• Islam

• Eastern Orthodox Christianity

• Roman Catholicism

• Hinduism

Answer explanation

According to the 2023 census (the most recent), 69.5 percent of the population identifies as Eastern Orthodox Christian. The census reports Muslims, the second largest religious group, are 10.7 percent of the population.

Which is NOT a famous place in Sofia?

• Museum of Socialist Art

• Boyana Church

• Ancient Roman Theatre

• Ancient Cerdica complex

Answer explanation

Bulgaria was part of the socialist bloc and we have a museum. Boyana Church, built in 10th century, is located in the outskirts of Sofia and consists of three buildings. It has ancient medieval paintings. The Ancient Roman Theatre is in the second biggest city in Bulgaria - Plovdiv. Serdika complex displays the remains of the Roman city, Serdika. There are fragments of eight streets, an early Christian basilica, baths and houses dating from the 4th to 6th centuries.

What is celebrated on November 30 in Bulgaria?

• St. Andrew's Day

• St. Nicholas Day

• Ignazhden

• Christmas Eve

Answer explanation

On November 30, the Bulgarian Orthodox Church celebrates the memory of St. Apostle Andrew. It is believed that from this day the day begins to grow as a millet (corn, pea, etc.). People cook in a new pot different grains - wheat , peas, corn, beans, lentils, etc.

What type of dishes are served on St. Nicholas Day?

• Meat dishes

• Fish dishes

• Vegetarian dishes

• Desserts

Answer explanation

December 6th is dedicated to St. Nikolai Mirlikian, who is known as the patron saint of sailors, travelers, merchants and bankers. In the tradition of the festive tables are served fish dishes, most often – stuffed carp with walnuts. People who are called Nikola, Niko, etc. celebrate their name day.

What is the custom associated with Ignazhden?

• Climbing

• Fasting

• Gift giving

• Feasting

Answer explanation

The most characteristic of the Ignazhden holiday is the custom of "climbing". From who will be the first to enter Ignazhden's house,  you will guess what the next year will be like. If the "benefit" is good, then the house will be prosperous and successful in everything throughout the year.

What is the significance of the number of dishes served on Christmas Eve?

• It should be even

• It should be seven, nine, or eleven

• It should be twelve

• It should be random

Answer explanation

The festive dinner is also vegetarian and humble. The number of the dishes on the table should be seven, nine, or eleven (symbolic numbers from the Bible), although in some parts of the country they may serve twelve dishes that stand for the twelve months of the year.

What is the special bread called that is served on Christmas Eve?

• Pita

• Challah

• Babka

• Focaccia

Answer explanation

There's a special round and decorated loaf of bread called 'pita' which has a coin baked in it. If you find the good you're meant to have good luck for the next year! The bread is normally cut by the oldest person at the meal and they hand it around the table.

What is the main ingredient in the stuffed cabbage leaves recipe?

• Rice

• Cabbage

• Tomatoes

• Peppers

Answer explanation

Stuffed cabbage leaves recipe:

• 10-15 pickled cabbage leaves

• 4 onions

• salt

• 1 coffee cupful of rice

• 2 red tomatoes - fresh or preserved

• 1 teaspoonful of ground savory

• 1 teaspoonful of ground pepper

• 1 spoonful of parsley

• 2 dried red peppers

• 2 fresh red peppers

• 1 carrot

• 1 1/2 coffee cups of sunflower oi

How do we call Santa Claus in Bulgaria?

• Santa

• Dyado Koleda

• Дед Мароз

• Старче

Answer explanation

Dyado means grandpa. In Cyrillic we say and write 'дядо'.