eYs Youth Kristina Apostoloska

“A nation without its own folklore and without solid ethno-genesis is a tree without roots.”

By Kristina Apostoloska

Kristina Apostoloska

eYs Youth - eYs Magazine Republic of Macedonia

The tradition of a nation is the embodiment of all the wealth that can represent a country. In Macedonia, it makes it possible to preserve, nurture and promote the cultural identity of Macedonians and Macedonia, because Macedonian creativity has an inestimable value as a cultural feature.

Macedonia is a country where the past has left precious traces, and the present has further beautified and ennobled it. In Macedonia, the old and rich Macedonian tradition has been mixed with progress and modern life in the best possible way, so united together they represent a successful whole that contains all the elements of a culture based on its centuries-old customs.

Macedonian folk dances are traditional dances that are essential in Macedonian folklore and musical tradition.

On the territory of the Republic of Macedonia, however, depending on the style, choreography and customs associated with them, Macedonian dances are divided into five regional groups: Northern Dances, Eastern Dances, Western Dances, Southern Dances and Southwest Dances.

Macedonian dances are numerous and diverse. In different regions they have different names, depending on the place and the way of playing. Their names are derived from place names, personal names, trades, animals, instruments, type of dance, posture and customs.

Folk songs from Macedonia are known for their beauty, but there is something more in them. The lyrics of most of the songs date back to ancient times, and sometimes they are just playful songs, but sometimes they tell long and sad stories. Singing has always been a part of the activities of the Macedonians, they sing for grief and joy. These songs often tell stories about mythical creatures and legends.

Macedonian folk songs also tell stories of legendary heroes. These heroes are given superhuman powers and usually portrayed as protectors of the people. One of the most beloved heroes in Macedonia and the Balkans, was the real historical figure - Krale Marko, who was the ruler of the Prilep kingdom.

Macedonian folk costumes The richness and diversity of traditional culture is most strikingly expressed in folk costumes. The red color and the color of the wine are colors of earth and fertility, while gold is the color of the gods (the sky) That is why our national costume is red with gold embroidery.

Folk Costumes in Macedonia have a tradition that lasts for centuries. They are part of the material culture of the Macedonian people and an important branch of folk art. Created as a collective benefit of all Macedonian people, they have been passed from generation to generation for many years and during their development, they included many elements of the diverse cultural influences that have crossed this part of the Balkans.

Most often Macedonian folklore embroidery was made of woollen or silk thread with red being the predominate colour. The Folk Costumes in Macedonia have a tradition of many centuries. They are an integral part of the Macedonian culture and represent a significant branch of the national artistic creations.

Folklore Connects Us If you consider yourself a nay-sayer of folklore because it no longer seems relevant in today’s world, you may be discounting an important connection to our past.

We are unique as individuals, but we are all connected through these moral truths.

Folklore, tales, and sayings have been around long before science could articulate it further, so listening to the tales told from family member to family member might prove valuable, even in today’s world, if you take the time to listen.