Tvarditsa and the Church Rock Fest to rock Zhrebchevo Reservoir shores

July Morning is upon us, and the Tvarditsa and Church Rock Festival at Zhrebchevo Reservoir promises to be an unforgettable event. Commencing tonight at 8 p.m., this festival, organized by the Tvarditsa Municipality, coincides with the July Morning celebrations, reported by BTA. A highlight of this festival is the opportunity to shed light on the Church of St. Ivan Rilski, the sole remnant of the submerged village of Zapalnia following the reservoir’s construction in 1965.

Nestled beside the ‘Sunken Church,’ this festival will feature performances by renowned Bulgarian rock bands like B.T.R., Kanela, and Fandango. The music will echo through the night, transforming the shores of Zhrebchevo Reservoir into a vibrant celebration of art and culture. As visitors bask in the melodies and soak in the ambiance, they will also be beckoned to reflect on the submerged heritage of Zapalnia and the stories of Bulgarian villages lost beneath the waters of the dam.

The submerged church at Zhrebchevo Dam stands as a poignant testament to the past that now lies beneath the reservoir’s surface. Zapalnia, the village that once thrived in this area, was overtaken by the reservoir’s waters, leaving only the Church of St. Ivan Rilski as a reminder of the community that once existed there. The festival serves as a poignant moment to commemorate and honor this lost piece of Bulgarian history.

This event is not merely a music festival but a chance to explore the rich cultural heritage of Bulgaria and pay tribute to the resilience of the communities that have shaped the nation’s history. The combination of music, history, and natural beauty at Zhrebchevo Reservoir creates a unique and unmissable experience for locals and visitors alike.

The fact that the Bulgarian Embassy in Brussels recently hosted a meeting between high school graduates from the Bulgarian Sunday School “Peyo Yavorov” and the diplomatic mission team showcases the importance of preserving and sharing Bulgarian cultural heritage with future generations. The Ocho Latin Fest in Sofia, celebrating its third edition this summer, further highlights the eclectic and diverse cultural landscape of Bulgaria.

As festivals like the Tvarditsa and Church Rock Festival continue to showcase Bulgaria’s remarkable history, culture, and music, it serves as a reminder of the vibrant spirit and resilience of the Bulgarian people. These celebrations not only entertain and delight but also educate and inspire, weaving together the past, present, and future of Bulgaria’s cultural tapestry. The upcoming festival at Zhrebchevo Reservoir promises to be a night filled with music, history, and celebration, uniting all in a shared appreciation of Bulgarian heritage.