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Rose oil and martenitsa: Bulgarian gifts with a story
The back story
About Rose oil and martenitsa: Bulgarian gifts with a story
Bulgaria’s best souvenirs carry its traditions: rose oil and rose cosmetics from the Valley of Roses, martenitsi for the first of March, Troyan pottery, embroidery and a bottle of Mavrud.
Rose oil
In the Rose Valley around Kazanlak, the Damask rose has been grown for centuries, and Bulgaria is one of the world’s leading producers of rose oil, used in perfumes. Rose oil, rose water and rose cosmetics make fragrant gifts.
Martenitsa
On 1 March, Bulgarians give each other martenitsi, red-and-white woollen tokens, wishing health and the coming of spring. They are worn until you see a stork or a blossoming tree, then tied to a branch. The tradition is on UNESCO’s intangible heritage list.
Bulgaria produces a large share of the world’s rose oil.
Pottery and crafts
Troyan pottery, with its flowing glazed patterns, and embroidered textiles are traditional crafts.
Our advice: buy rose products from a specialist shop rather than a souvenir stall, and if you visit in late February or March, give a martenitsa to a friend.
Why it's on our list
- Rose oil
- Martenitsa
- Pottery and crafts
- Food and drink
Opening hours, prices and seasonal openings change, so please check with Rose oil and martenitsa: Bulgarian gifts with a story before you go.