March 21 was declared the Day of Kyustendil, a city in southwestern Bulgaria. The holiday is known as “Ćustendil spring” and is the heir to a custom that goes back to ancient times when the Thracians and Romans lived in this climate. It is associated with the cult of the Sun, fire and gold. Since 1996, there has been a tradition that on that day, the “Girl of Ćustendilski Spring” is chosen, who also has two companions. They symbolize the gentle step of the coming spring, youth and new hopes.

This year, on the eve of the Ćustendil holiday, the “Girl of Ćustendil Spring” was chosen for the 56th time – that is Monika Jordanova (in the photo in the middle).