Susam can be explored especially through wine growing and the Trifon Zarezan festival: vines, grape processing and ritual vine pruning give the village a distinct cultural connection. There is also an archaeological site at Taushantepe and local singing groups. Agricultural tradition, customs and tangible cultural heritage offer different ways to discover Susam.

Wine growing and grape varieties

Wine growing and grape processing are characteristic of Susam. The vineyards are reported to cover 2,905 decares; this area may have changed. Grape varieties associated with the village include Merlot, Pamid, Muscat Bianco, Muscat Gianco, Vilnie, Cabernet Sauvignon, Mavrud and Shira. The list of varieties does not necessarily reflect every current planting.

An earlier expansion of the vineyards covered 750 decares. Muscat Bianco, Muscat Gianco, Vilnie and Sera were planted there. This area and these plantings may have changed since then. Together, these details give an impression of how closely Susam’s character is linked to vines and grape processing.

Trifon Zarezan and local singing groups

Susam has a long-standing tradition of celebrating Trifon Zarezan with rituals, horo dances, songs and ritual vine pruning. Individual programme items may vary. The pruning connects the celebration with wine growing, while dance and song add other forms of local custom.

The Budilnik Chitalishte in Susam is home to a 14-member group of male Christmas carol singers and a ten-member women’s singing group. If you would like to plan around a performance, check in advance whether the groups are currently performing. This lets you include the local musical tradition in your travel plans without assuming a specific event date.

Archaeological heritage in Susam

The foundations of an old church stand at Taushantepe, classified as an archaeological site of local significance. Susam also has one cultural monument and several archaeological monuments of local significance. Alongside local customs, the village’s tangible heritage also comes into view.

Interpretations of the site and its accessibility may change. The condition and access to individual monuments may also vary. Check current access arrangements before visiting.

Location and regional context

Susam is 3 km from Mineralni Bani and lies on the Plovdiv–Kardzhali road. The third-class Plovdiv–Kardzhali road includes the Susam–Karamantsi section, which runs through Mineralni Bani Municipality. For your specific journey by road, it is advisable to check current road conditions.

Mineralni Bani Municipality offers another regional perspective: six developed eco-trails link natural and cultural attractions there. Along the routes, there are rest areas, pavilions and barbecue areas. When planning, you can distinguish between Susam’s wine and cultural heritage and the trails that connect nature and cultural destinations at the municipal level.

Discover more destinations: Vinevo, Mineralni Bani.

Return to the main travel overview: Mineralni Bani.