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Pomaks live in the mountain scenery of Rodopi in Greece and Bulgaria.

Through the pages of history, Pomaks became an object of violence with an ultimate purpose to change their language, religion and physiognomy.

But there is a custom, so well kept, that survived through the ages. The matrimony custom is still followed in a small village in Bulgaria.

One of the most interesting characteristics of this peculiar wedding ceremony is the bride’s make-up. It takes numerous hours and at the end she looks like she is wearing a white mask with beads and tinsels. Through all the process she holds a mirror in her hand. She will stand outside her house, next to the groom, with her eyes closed, holding the mirror, while the entire village is watching.

 

  • Direction: DESPINA PANTAZI
  • Production: ETHNOLOGICAL MUSEUM OF THRACE - ANGELIKI GIANNAKIDOU