Lazarki – Traditional Female Rituals
Organized by the Citizens’ Association Menelaj and supported by CSLU-Prilep and the Institute for Old Slavic Culture–Prilep, the exhibition “Lazarki” presented a powerful visual and ethnographic homage to one of Macedonia’s most meaningful springtime traditions.
The exhibition “Lazarki – Traditional Female Rituals” was realized by the Citizens’ Association Menelaj, with institutional support from CSLU-Prilep and the Institute for Old Slavic Culture – Prilep. It offered an immersive journey through the ritualistic spring celebration known as Lazarki, highlighting its role as a vibrant and symbolic element of Macedonian intangible cultural heritage.
Through evocative photography and contextual storytelling, the exhibition documented the still-living customs in regions such as Struga Field and Drimkol, where the Lazarki tradition—performed annually on Lazarus Saturday—continues to flourish.
The exhibition featured:
• Visual records of Lazarki processions in villages like Lozhani, Vevchani, Radogoshda, and Moroishta;
• Insights into regional variations in attire, choreography, and lyrical expression;
• Curated narratives that reflect on the rite's historical role as a symbol of female maturity and community continuity.
By hosting this event in its gallery space, CSLU-Prilep proudly reinforced its commitment to supporting initiatives that safeguard, promote, and re-contextualize traditional culture for future generations.
