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Български In the footsteps of Ivan Vazov: Discovering the story of a Bulgarian woman
Come and immerse yourself in the world of Ivan Vazov, one of the greatest Bulgarian writers, and discover the inspiring story of the legendary grandmother Iliitsa. While foreigners may find it difficult to explain who she is, there is hardly a Bulgarian who has not heard of her heroic deeds, such as rescuing a wounded Chetnik from the Boteva Cheta.
The Legend of Grandma Iliitsa: A Tale of Courage and Heroism
The story "A Bulgarian Woman" was inspired by Vazov's visit to the village of Chelopek in 1899, during which he passed through the Cherepish monastery and stopped for a rest at the local pub. There he heard stories about the bravery of the Boteva platoon and about the brave Bulgarian woman who lived in the village. Her name was Penka and she left a strong impression on those who knew her. Even the sick grandson from the story finally recovers and continues the family of grandmother Ilyitsa, and his descendants read Vazov's story again and again.
From Folklore to Reality: The Remarkable Story of Grandma Iliitsa's Family Tree
Today, her great-great-grandchildren still live in the village and keep the legend of the Vase Heroine alive. One of her heirs - Diana Tsvetkova, is a curator at the museum and makes sure that the family tree of this famous Bulgarian woman continues to be interesting for tourists.
Enter the museum and view the exhibition of traditional Bulgarian furniture, rugs and household items that belonged to grandmother Iliitsa. The museum also displays typical folk costumes from this part of Bulgaria, which give an insight into the country's rich cultural heritage. The most significant exhibit, however, are the emblematic three-legged stools that belonged to grandmother Iliitsa herself, a symbol of her strength and resilience.
Whether you are a history buff or simply interested in Bulgarian folklore, a visit to this museum is an unforgettable experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the country's past and the bravery of its people.
