Bulgaria Inside

February 10 is the day of St. Charalampus and martyr St. Valentina. This is the name day of everyone called Valentin and Valenita, instead of the Catholic St. Valentine’s Day on February 14.

Other people, who celebrate their name day on February 10, are Valeri, Valeria, Haralampi and Lambi.

St. Charalampus was a Christian bishop in Asia Minor’s Magnesia. He died in 198 at the age of 113. Throughout his life, the saint suffered torture because of his faith. Yet, his wounds miraculously healed, which made many people accept Christianity.

Bulgarian folklore points St. Charalampus as protector against diseases, most of all against plague. He is often presented as lord of the disease, which is bound in chains.

To keep themselves safe from diseases people refrain from working on February 10. Women wake up early to prepare ritual bread. It is usually decorated with a cross figure. The bread is covered in honey. Some of the honey is set aside to be used as remedy throughout the year.