"The Stamp of Discord" or More about Food as a Cultural and Ethnic Code

Abstract

One of the most exotic and little-known ritual foods of the Greek community in Sozopol for the so-called damgi (the stamp) - a special kind of fried cakes, which until almost the end of the twentieth century were prepared only here, only by the Greek urban community and only for weddings. Over the years, however, the scope of their preparation and supply has expanded. From ritual props, they become one of the culinary emblems of Sozopol and seduce tourists visiting the city during the active season. In order to preserve the unique recipe and local rituals related to the stamps, a special "Damga Festival" has been established in the Black Sea resort for several years, which aims to preserve and promote this part of the "delicious heritage" of Sozopol. But a well-conceived festival is at the center of old ethnic disputes.