2017 has certainly been a memorable year, but in spite of a deluge of seismic political events, it hasn’t all been bad. Across the New East, 2017 has also been a time of adventure, of travel across breathtaking landscapes, and of growing success for emerging artists. As we approach the beginning of a new year, we look back on some of the images – from amusing street fashion in Bulgaria to the iconic spomeniks of former Yugoslavia – that captured the outrage, amusement and excitement that coloured 2017 with a lighter, brighter spirit.
Nadia Beard
Sofia, Bulgaria, recently transformed into a magical winter wonderland as snow blanketed the city in January. Streets and parks became serene, snow-covered landscapes, offering a rare and enchanting atmosphere....
In the charming town of Kalofer, Bulgaria, carolers harmonize through the streets, embodying the spirit of the season. Dressed in traditional attire, these singers, known as "koledari," carry on a centuries-old tradition, spreading joy with melodies and wishes for prosperity and health....
During the Christmas season, Sofia becomes a vibrant tapestry of festive cheer and merriment. The city adorns itself with an array of enchanting decorations, from glittering lights draped across buildings to elaborately adorned Christmas trees gracing the bustling squares....
Autumn in Sofia, Bulgaria, is a breathtaking symphony of colors and crisp, cool air. As the leaves on the trees turn various shades of red, orange, and yellow, the cityscape transforms into a picturesque canvas of natural beauty....
The "Surva" festival is the oldest festival of masquerade games in Bulgaria and one of the largest in Europe. Due to the record number of participants - over 10,000 people, for the first time the festival was held for three consecutive days....
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