The first edition of the festival "Momchilgrad – the Heart of the Eastern Rhodopes," held on October 4 at Banski Square in the capital,

turned an ordinary gray autumn day into a colorful meeting of history, tradition, flavor, and human warmth. The event showcased the richness of the Rhodope town – its history, culture, nature, and people.

Right from the beginning, the hosts transported the audience into the world of Momchilgrad – a town where legends come to life, traditions intertwine with modernity, and hospitality knows no boundaries.

"Today, Momchilgrad comes to Sofia with its spirit, its people, and its wealth. Our idea is to give everyone the opportunity to sense our region, to feel the history, the flavors, and the energy of Momchilgrad. But the most important thing is to present the people – the residents of Momchilgrad, who make our municipality the true heart of the Eastern Rhodopes," said the Mayor of Momchilgrad Municipality, Ilknur Kyazim, during the opening of the event.

Among the official guests were: Halil Letifov – Deputy Chairman of the Movement for Rights and Freedoms (MRF) and of the MRF–New Beginning Parliamentary Group; Members of Parliament Ayten Sabri and Elvan Gyurkash; Ediz Saidov – MRF regional chairman for Sofia; Beyhan Mehmed – Regional Mufti of Sofia; Mustafa Kara – Deputy Head of the Turkish diplomatic mission in Bulgaria; Mestanie Efe – Chairman of the Momchilgrad Community Association in Bursa, Turkey, and others. People from Momchilgrad now living in Sofia, as well as others connected in some way to the town, were also present. Many shared their personal memories and emotions about Momchilgrad. Their words sounded like a recognition that the town has long gone beyond the borders of the Rhodopes and has become a symbol of coexistence, talent, and unity.

After the official part, the celebration continued with the traditional ashure – a symbol of health, prosperity, and abundance. Visitors had the chance to taste this sweet tradition, passed down through generations, as well as enjoy authentic Eastern Rhodope dishes such as kapanitsa pastry, baklava, kadaif, keshkek, stuffed grape leaves, and more – all prepared with skill and heart. Traditional foods could be found on the 27 stands, where visitors could also buy honey from the Dambala region, as well as handmade crafts by local artisans.

Special attention was drawn to the "Avenue of Sporting Glory," dedicated to Momchilgrad’s champions who have brought fame to Bulgaria around the world – weightlifters Naim Suleymanoglu and Halil Mutlu, table tennis player Daniela Gergelecheva, and swimmer Petar Stoychev. The exhibition of their photographs reminded everyone that Momchilgrad is not only a land of tradition, but also a town of records and sporting strength.

Guests also immersed themselves in the mystical atmosphere of the Eastern Rhodopes through the photo exhibition "The Beauty of Momchilgrad," showcasing the region’s majestic nature and cultural landmarks.

In the afternoon the festival became a true folklore enchantment. Amateur groups from Momchilgrad Municipality took the stage, including the folk singer Filip Sinapov, the dance groups "Ahrida" and "Evridika," the children’s vocal group "Golden Apple," and the talented Nur Ismail, who impressed the audience with her emotional performance and powerful voice.

Throughout the celebration, the square was filled with songs, dances, and smiles.

The material is provided by Momchilgrad Municipality.

Top photo: Mayor of Momchilgrad Municipality Ilknur Kyazim welcomes the event’s guests. Bottom: moments from the first edition of the festival "Momchilgrad – the Heart of the Eastern Rhodopes" in Sofia.