Folk Customs And Beliefs In Kosovo And Metohija Between The Two World Wars

Abstract

The geographical region of Kosovo and Metohija in the period between the two world wars was characterised by traditional societies and a large number of folk customs and beliefs. In my paper, I will deal with the customs and beliefs that marked the daily life of the population in this area, based on ethnographic literature and the press from that period. Folk customs and beliefs had almost always accompanied many actions that people performed on various occasions. The custom of wearing amulets was widespread, especially among the Muslim population. There were many customs related to folk medicine, wedding and married life, holiday celebrations, as well as customs relating to death and funerals. In the house and family it was the women who preserved the customs, faith and tradition. A good proportion of those customs and beliefs have been preserved to this day in Kosovo and Metohija.