On St. Ivan’s Day in the old style – January 20, we go to Perushtitsa for the custom of Bathing. On this day, traditionally, young men who got married last year bathe in the river for health and masculine strength. It is believed that those who throw themselves into the icy waters conceive a healthy generation. The boy’s relatives pour a cauldron of red wine, tie a bunch of boxwood to him, put a bunch of geraniums with red thread inside, and put coins in the copper for blessing. The groom goes with the cauldron to the river, accompanied by an orchestra, relatives, and friends. Relatives bring appetizers – homemade sausage, dried meat, and cheese for a treat.
After reaching the Cholak Bridge, the groom undresses to the waist, pours the copper with the wine into the river, and throws himself into the icy water. It is believed that the Baths are a legacy of the ancient Slavic water-related holidays. We will also visit the historical church “St. Archangel Michael” – the last fortress and refuge of the rebels in April 1876 against Ottoman rule, and the early Christian basilica Red Church from the IV century. We will go to a wine tasting in cellar Dvor# 1 The wines will be presented by the owner – the former judge, current lawyer, and especially cupbearer Kiril Nikolov. We will also enjoy the fabric with delicious Perushtina meat appetizers.
