The OUR HOUSE National Project: A Good Practice of European Intercultural Dialogue

Abstract

Bulgaria’s National Project for the European Year of Intercultural Dialogue (2008) was named OUR HOUSE to symbolize unity, tradition, and national values. Bulgarians, Greeks, Turks, Jews, Armenians, and Gypsies have lived together in peace and tolerance in Bulgaria for centuries, sharing happiness and sorrow, daily concerns and holiday preparations. The Bulgarian house has become the emblem of multiethnic tolerance, cross-cultural drive, and dialogue.
The Bulgarian house is also a symbol of accession; in addition to its specific architecture giving Bulgarian towns and villages a character of their own, it has typical interior and cultural patterns which are Bulgaria’s contribution to the European tradition. The project includes joint events with other European and non- European countries where the Bulgarian dimension will prevail. The preservation of the variety of national heritage and traditions is a fundamental principle of the EU, meaning that each Member State is expected to contribute to the union’s cultural diversity. Unity consists in preserving cultural variances for the future generations through mutual respect and tolerance.