Heritage by Theme / Intangible Heritage
National Festival of Folk Art in Koprivshtitsa
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About the site
Country: Bulgaria, Koprivshtitsa
Type: Intangible Heritage
Epoch: 20th Century
Theme: Intangible Heritage
World Heritage:
Koprivshtitsa, nestled in the picturesque mountain Sredna gora, has a rich history and impressive cultural heritage. Entirely preserved its Revival outlook and untouched the beauty of the surrounding environment, the town has been declared cultural and historical reserve. Koprivshtitsa is the birth place of a grate number of prominent Bulgarians – leaders, writers, scholars, public figures; the folk songs, dances, rites, skills and handicrafts are well-preserved and kept alive.
For that reason Koprivshtitsa was nominated to host the first National festival of folk art (August 1965) with hundred thousands of people from all over the country gathering there. On the meadows in the picturesque surroundings of the ancient town over 4000 folk singers, dancers, folk instrumentalists, story and legend-tellers from the whole country present to the visitors their original art. In the exhibition of folk handicrafts are exhibited the works of hundreds of masters – potters, smiths, weavers, goldsmiths, woodcarvers, etc.
Since then, the Festival in Koprivshtitsa is being held every 5 years and is gradually becoming a tradition with deep roots in our national life. In 2005 was held the 9th National Festival of Folk Art, presenting again the vitality of folk art and the great interest towards it.
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