Bulgarian Village in Ukraine: Spirituality and Memory in the Heart of Odessa Region

09.08.2025 | History

A unique story about the village of Zalizhnichne - a spiritual and cultural center of Bulgarian settlers, which preserves authentic heritage through worship and an ethnographic museum.

Снимка от Tencho B, Wikimedia Commons, под CC BY-SA 4.0

In the heart of the Odessa region, Ukraine, lies the village of Zaliznychne - a living testimony to Bulgarian immigrant history. On August 9th, the local community will celebrate Saint Panteleimon's Day with a traditional Holy Liturgy, which will be served by Protopriest Mikhail Siretsky at 8:30 AM.

Founded in 1861 by Bulgarian settlers from the Sliven District, the village carries the authentic spirit of its founders. The Ethnographic Museum, opened on September 27, 2011, has become a true guardian of the community's collective memory.

Under the leadership of Sergey Draganyuk, the museum presents a rich collection of material evidence of immigrant life. The exhibition includes authentic folk costumes, handmade textiles, household utensils, and unique items that tell the story of Bulgarians in this region.

Special attention is given to traditional women's crafts - embroidery, embroidered skirts, shirts, laces, and knitting. Each exhibit reveals not just an object, but an entire culture preserved far from its homeland.

The museum becomes a bridge between the past and the present, allowing visitors to touch the authentic heritage of Bulgarian immigrants in Ukraine.