NA ZDRAVJE! THE CULTURAL ROLE OF RAKIA IN MACEDONIA

Abstract

I conducted my field studies in the Republic of Macedonia (FYROM). For comparison I use the literature concerning other Balkan countries (Serbia, Bulgaria, Montenegro, Croatia). In Macedonia many of the villages are isolated from others due to the geographical conditions and also a great part of so called traditional culture is pervading and influencing the culture of the cities, among other elements – rakia1 . As I believe that occurs also in other Balkan countries, I attempt to extend my conclusions based on Macedonian material to the whole Balkan region. This essay concerns mainly the role of rakia in traditional Macedonian culture, I am also reflecting on how rakia participates in culture of contemporary Balkans.