Bulgarians Celebrate Old Spring Tradition of  Baba Martha

Sofia, March 1 (BTA) - On March 1 the Bulgarians celebrate a
centennial tradition, most probably of pagan origin, called Baba
Martha or Granny Martha and connected with the onset of spring.


On March 1, people give each other a white and red amulet called
martenitsa for good health and strength in the year. The
martenista is also tied on farm animals and trees. It is made
from twisted red and white thread on March 1 only, when the new
farming year starts for the Bulgarians. The amulet is borne
until March 9, The Holy Forty Martyrs holiday, or until March
25, Annunciation, or until one sees the first stork or swallow.
The martenitsa is then tied to a blooming fruit tree.