Marginal(ized) Europe: Bulgaria & Greece
May 19 – June 30, 2018
For centuries the Balkans (SE Europe) have been viewed as a civilizational “bridge,” a link between the West and the East. This cross-cultural will explore the marginal(ized) status of people who live in the SE Balkans. Particular focus will be given to Bulgaria, a relatively unknown nation and the poorest country in the European Union. During these six weeks students will be exposed to the historical and cultural complexities of this region. They will also interact closely with members of the two primary ethno-religious groups in the SE Balkans: Orthodox Christians and Muslims.
Program Highlights:
- Homestays in Plovdiv, the second largest city in Bulgaria and major cultural center, and in Ribnovo, a Bulgarian-Muslim mountain village.
- Rila Monastery (Bulgaria) – The holiest Orthodox Christian site in the country, tucked away in the stunning Rila Mountains.
- Karlovo (Bulgaria) – Site of the annual Rose Valley Festival (in the region which produces the majority of the world’s rose oil, used in expensive perfumes and colognes), with traditional folk music and dancing
- Philippi (Greece) – Archeological site and museum located at the birthplace of European Christianity.
- Thassos (Greece)- Large Mediterranean island off the NE coast of Greece, and location of Archangelos Monastery, one of the oldest in SE Europe.
- Meteora (Greece)- A place of unique beauty, with monasteries built on the top of conical rock formations, appearing as if they were suspended in mid-air.
- Athens (Greece)- Though for many it is the cradle of Western civilization, today Athens is a city on the margins, facing the pressures of European Union membership, economic recession, and immigration.
Explore Bulgaria: Check out photos and read journals
Estimated Cost: $6,200 (subject to change)
Seminar Leaders: Andrew White, Language & Literature, and Daria White
Courses:
CCSSC 201 Cross-Cultural Social Science (3 SH)
CCLNG 150 Bulgarian Language (3 SH)
Immunizations
Immunizations and prescriptions may be obtained at the EMU Health Center by appointment.
Immunizations may also be obtained from your local health department or primary care
provider.
