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We went into Zagreb to meet Marija and her family. She is my cousin, dad's sister Barica's 3rd child and only daughter. Her husband Stjepan and children Marko & Martina were home and the initial meeting whilst warm felt a slight touch tense. The food and drink broke the ice and we quickly chatted as though we had known each other for years. The oldest child (Natalija) had walked to Marija Bistrica church the night before along with many others. This pilgrimage is undertaken by thousands of people every year and they are joined by others who arrive by bus for the church service in the morning. The walkers leave various departure points at about midnight to arrive at 6am in the morning. Apparently all the bars are open all night so that walkers can enjoy a drink or coffee to make the journey easier. The summer holidays are very religious times with masses being held throughout the country. In fact the attendance is so immense that outdoor seating is arranged and the grassed areas around churches are covered with people sitting on blankets or simply standing. Here the Catholic faith is controls everything, even the government.
Today is also Croatian Independence Day, where crowds gather at many locations with the greatest being at Knin where Croatian Independence was first announced by President Tuđman who raised the flag at the castle overlooking the town on 5th August 1995.
Meanwhile back at Marija's home we ate, drank and got to know each other. Like all of my family so far, they were extremely welcoming and made us feel at ease.
In the afternoon we visited dad's youngest sister Jelka where we had a quick chat as they were heading off to trim their vines.
A late night was had back at Ivan & Biserka's as we watched part 1 of the 4 part series of Marin's wedding from 2 years ago. Bedtime time ended up being 1am.
- comments
Sharon. Finally got onto your blog and have done a bit of reading about your travels. It sounds like a lot of drinking and eating is going on over there! It is lovely that you can enjoy the hospitality of your family Chris.
Angela Callea The similarities are so obvious! I appreciate the tradition of their religion as it unites the people past and present. Is it the religion or the customs of the past that ensures the young continue with the religious pilgrimages? It appears the youth everywhere are seeking to find themselves for ours it is Gallipoli and the Kakoda trail in Europe the religious past. WOW how i wish I could understand my heritage and live it as you have!! John may come back a CATHOLIC on higher ground?!?!