Bell making

Bell making was not subject to official regulation, meaning that it required neither examinations nor master craftsmen’s certificates. The beginning of sheet-metal bell production is associated with the first so-called traki bells in the 20th century, which were not popular because of their poor reputation. Other kinds included horned bells and the most widely used rounded bells. The craft is thought to have arisen from livestock farming in Bulgaria’s mountain regions.

Bells were attached to the leaders of herds and helped prevent animals from being lost. They were also used for signalling: when the bells rang, the herd gathered, and when they fell silent, the animals scattered. Bells of different tones allowed owners to recognise their herds. Cast bells were also used in kukeri costumes, as Bulgarians believe their ringing drives away evil spirits and attracts fertility and prosperity in the coming year.

The masters’ workshop was a spacious area filled with materials and tools such as sheet iron, a hearth with bellows, a sheet-metal cutting table, shears, iron cup-shaped moulds for cold hammering, moulds for hot hammering, anvils and stakes, hammers and other implements. Production involved several stages, from cutting the sheet metal to a template through cold and hot hammering, binding, riveting and finishing, including fitting the clapper and testing the bell’s voice. This craft continues to evoke nostalgia and interest among Bulgarians, who take pride in their centuries-old traditions.