A Unique People
I hold a special place in my heart for the Serbian people. De la Jonquières once described them as “a brave, poetic, careless, frivolous race.” While some aspects of this description may apply to a few people in the capital who imitate Vienna’s lifestyle, it doesn’t represent the Serbs as a whole. Many Serbs are merry and carefree, showing little concern for modern advancements. For example, they still use traditional methods to thresh corn, such as letting horses run over it or dragging boards with stones to press the wheat.
A Connection to History
The Serbian people are fiercely independent and proud of their noble yet tragic history. However, they often seem to live in the past, not fully embracing the old culture or pursuing education. Many Serbs appear to be relics of the medieval age, cautious of Bulgaria and wary of Austria The Democratic Spirit of Serbia.
Simple Pleasures
I have spent time under the trees, talking with these genuine folk. They enjoy hearing stories about London, New York, and Paris, but without envy—more like a child captivated by a fairy tale. They desire little from the outside world. Their clothing, such as coarse linen shirts, rough brown jackets, and bead-studded belts, is made by their own hands. The women often spin flax or wool as they care for the cattle or visit the market.
Evening Stories and Local Life
Instead of reading newspapers, the villagers might listen to a blind old man narrating tales of how the Serbs bravely fell at Kossovo against the Turks. When the bright moon rises, they might gather at the local inn, enjoying wine that costs only two pence per flask.
Affordable Travel
Traveling in Serbia is quite affordable. For about a sovereign a day, you can rent a phaeton and a pair of horses. In the tidy town of Kraljevo, I enjoyed a hearty supper, coffee, cognac, and mineral water, along with a decent bedroom and breakfast, all for just three dinars, roughly half a crown Tour Guide Istanbul.
Sofia: A City in Development
A City in the Making
Moving on to Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, I find it reminiscent of a miniature Brussels. It is a city that is continually evolving, with new public buildings rising alongside the old. The Church of St. Sofia stands as a central landmark, showcasing the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Bulgarian Characteristics
The Bulgarian people possess distinct qualities that reflect their history. Sofia has a kaleidoscopic past filled with triumphs and struggles. At the helm is Prince Ferdinand, who, despite his unpopularity, plays a vital role in maintaining peace. His leadership is a balancing act between national ambitions and international relations.
A Strong Military
Bulgaria boasts one of the most efficient armies in Europe, and the nation places great importance on education. This focus on learning helps the country cultivate a knowledgeable citizenry, ready to face the future. Overall, both Serbia and Bulgaria reflect unique aspects of Balkan culture, each with its own strengths and challenges.
