The Hot Days and The Snake Bride

Image: Gilded silver greave from the Mogilanska Mound, Vratsa, probably depicting the ancient Thracian Great Goddess with serpentine features. Source: © Ivor Davies

Did you know that in Bulgaria, 15-17 July are traditionally known as the Goreshtnitsi, the Hot Days, and in the past they were thought to be the hottest days of the summer? There was a real fear of wildfires and lightning strikes, so people observed various taboos and rituals during these three days to protect themselves and their crops from harm. No one worked or went out into the fields or baked bread. On the first day the fire was extinguished in every house. On the third day a new “living” fire was ritually re-kindled.

17 July, the last day of the Goreshtnitsi, is also the festival of St Marina, sometimes called Marina Ognena, Fiery Marina. She is the mistress of snakes and although she is a Christian saint, she encompasses some aspects of the ancient Thracian Great Goddess. The fascinating customs and beliefs associated with the Goreshtnitsi probably have their origins in the ancient Thracian cult of fire and the sun.

The latest review of my book Beyond Nine Forests: Tales of Hidden Bulgaria, in the July edition of the wonderful Vagabond magazine includes a tale from the book called ‘The Snake Bride.’ It seems a very appropriate story for this time of year. Click on the first link for the book review and the second for the story.

https://www.vagabond.bg/beyond-nine-forests-tales-hidden-bulgaria-5093

https://www.vagabond.bg/snake-bride-5094

I hope that you enjoy reading both articles.

For further information about the book and full reviews, please visit https://www.spellintime.co.uk/beyond-nine-forests

N.B. All material in this blog and website is the copyright © of Moni Georgieva Sheehan and A Spell In Time