Karakachani Community Holds 32nd National Convention in Sliven

BTA Correspondent Sabina Stefanova, Metodi Yordanov

BTA Photo/Sabina Stefanova

Sliven, Central Bulgaria,

23.08.2025 19:07

(BTA)

The 32nd National Karakachani Convention took place today in the Karandila area near Sliven, uniting community members from across Bulgaria, as well as guests from Greece, to celebrate their heritage and folklore.

The event featured traditional songs, dances, and costumes, along with speeches highlighting the importance of preserving Karakachani identity and Orthodox faith. Greek Consul in Bulgaria and Sliven Mayor Stefan Radev praised the community’s efforts to maintain ancestral traditions while integrating into society.

Performances included local dance groups and guest ensembles from Greece. The festival, organized by the Federation of Cultural and Educational Societies of the Karakachani in Bulgaria with support from Sliven Municipality, will conclude with a traditional feast in the evening.

The Karakachani are a Greek community who used to depend on raising sheep and selling milk, meat and wool for a livelihood. They have a unique culture, speak a Greek dialect and profess Eastern Orthodox Christianity. There are 20,000 Karakachani in Bulgaria, concentrated mainly in the municipalities of Sliven and Karlovo.

/MY/