Culture activities FOLKLORE: in the region there is a very rich tradition in singing, dancing and music. You will have the unique chance to witness traditions, songs and rituals preserved and presented in their authentic fashion. A centuries old treasure inherited from the ancestors and kept alive from parent to children. The Nevrokopski Ensemble was in 1946 the first professional Bulgarian folklore group, and nowadays you will find more than 36 folklore groups in the region. Performances of one of these groups, as well as an active participation in such a group are among our arrangements for you. Even workshops during several days can be arranged on your request. HISTORY: at several locations you will find remains from the past. A visit to the excavations of the Roman city Nikopolis ad Nestrum is a must, just like a visit to the Thracian sanctuary Kozi Kamuk. In the city of Gotze Delchev there is a nice museum. A daytrip will show you the archaeological remains in the region. For people who are really interested we arranged a day tour to Philippi in Greece, once the oldest Christian community in Europe. The remains of Antiquity of this city are extra ordinary well preserved, forming a touristic highlight. CRAFTMANSHIP: to make the authentic costumes, the expertise in weaving and needlework has to be kept at a high level. This craft you can find to be performed at the highest level, just like processing wool and weaving tapestry. Also, the craftsmanship in woodcarving, metalwork and the painting of icons are at the highest level. A day tour “Traditional Craftsmanship” can be included in the program of your choice. Even it can be arranged to have a workshop in weaving or a course in painting icons. We are awaiting your requests! RELIGION: in the region there are several interesting churches and monasteries. In the mountain villages you will even find simple mosques. During a day tour you get acquainted with Eastern Orthodoxy, its buildings and its works of art. You can even visit Rozhen Monastery from the 12th century, presenting fascinating fescs and icons. The monastery is situated in a spectacular landscape, characterized by natural sand pyramids. Close to this monastery is the town of Melnik, a renowned centre of wine trade and wine production, although the present number of inhabitants is limited. You will certainly appreciate a day tour to the monastery and Melnik.