Description
The project addresses the need for conservation of traditional plant and animal species. The project aims at conserving them by raising public awareness about the role of such species in the rituals and customs of Thracians and Proto-Bulgarians. First, the project will be presented to the public via the media. Second, ethnographic studies of the presence of such animal and plant species in rituals, folklore, masquerade games will be carried out. Third, a collection of products, masquerade costumes and amulets related to the animal and bird species will be prepared. Fourth, video and audio records of authentic sounds, songs and folklore events related to wildlife will be made. Finally, a manual on wildlife in ancient rituals and customs will be published. The project will benefit the local communities, NGOs and authorities.
Summary of project results
The project aimed at triggering civil awareness towards a national eco-culture based on the fauna and ornifauna species that were part of the system of myths and rituals of the Thracians and Proto-Bulgarians in order to protect them. The specific goals of the project were targeted at the protection and conservation of endangered species (the wolf, the bear, the red deer, the golden eagle and the horse). During the project implementation, the participants were introduced in theory and in practice to biological, folklore and ethnographic data about the animals. The implemented project helped build knowledge and behavioural models making it possible for young people to live in harmony with nature, the biological species and the surrounding urban environment. The innovative about the project was the link to nature established based on the respect Bulgarians feel for the surrounding world inherited from the ethnic groups that inhabited the land in the past. The main methods applied in the training were the mutual teaching method and the interdisciplinary method. The tools used in the practical part include observation, description, research, analysis and summary. The target groups took part in the research, collection and analysis of folklore and ethnographic materials. Field observations were made and the received information was analyzed and summarized. The target groups were actively involved with questions and opinions during the working meetings and thus helped enrich and expand the available materials. 24 young people were trained. The knowledge acquired under the project will help them in their future work related to the conservation and protection of species and traditions. The project deliverables (a promotional film about the studied species, disseminated on 200 DVDs, a guide - 500 copies, a collection with the reports and lectures, learning boards) complement and enrich the knowledge of young people. Promotional materials created under the project add to the goal with their traditional and unique appearance, i.e. gypsum mouldings of animal footprints, artefacts and accessories decorated with the cult species, embroidery, applique on firearms, low reliefs and wood carving. The organization will continue its activity by planning its future environmental initiatives. The eco area created by the volunteers under the project will lay the foundation of a future eco-centre and environmental routes in Barite area, the town of Maglizh.
Summary of bilateral results