Bulgaria
participants
This activity aligns closely with different objectives of ESN. By venturing beyond the city limits and immersing ourselves in the rich history and natural beauty of Bachkovo, we provided participants with a deeper understanding of Bulgarian culture and heritage.
Furthermore, the activity encouraged teamwork and adaptability, as participants navigated logistical challenges and embraced the spirit of adventure. Through shared experiences such as exploring the monastery, dining together, and exploring the village, participants had the opportunity to form lasting connections and friendships, enriching their overall Erasmus experience.
Overall, the Bachkovo excursion exemplifies ESN's commitment to providing meaningful experiences that broaden horizons, foster intercultural understanding, and create lifelong memories for Erasmus students.
We embark on a cultural and scenic journey with ESN Plovdiv as we ventured from Plovdiv to the quaint village of Bachkovo. Despite facing logistical challenges with limited space in the local small buses, we adapted by splitting into two groups for the initial journey. However, our return trip was marked by unity as we all gathered in a larger bus, fostering a sense of togetherness and camaraderie among the participants.
Upon arriving in Bachkovo, the two groups merged, and we set out to explore the historic Bachkovo Monastery. Despite the Saturday crowds, everyone eagerly queued to enter the main church, where they had the opportunity to admire its beauty and significance. As they exited, we shared insights about the revered icon housed within, along with the compelling history of the last Bulgarian patriarch before Ottoman rule, recently canonized.
Following the monastery visit, Erasmus students had the chance to wander through the monastery grounds, marveling at its gardens and catching sight of a majestic peacock flaunting its vibrant feathers. Strolling along the main street, we perused various vendors, immersing ourselves in the local atmosphere.
After crossing the nearby river, we dined together at a riverside restaurant, savoring local cuisine and exchanging stories. Energized by our meal, we continued exploring the village and surrounding natural landscapes, even though the seasonal dryness meant the anticipated waterfalls were merely a memory.
As the day drew to a close, we regrouped and embarked on our journey back to Plovdiv via public transportation, reflecting on the day's experiences and the bonds forged through shared exploration and discovery.
