About the name Varvara / Barbara
Etymology & meaning
Varvara comes from the Greek βάρβαρος — "foreigner, non-Greek". The Western form is Barbara; the Bulgarian pet form is Varya.
History & patron saint
Saint Barbara the Great Martyr (3rd century) was locked in a tower by her father and died for her faith; she is venerated as protector against sudden death, lightning and miners' perils. Her memory on 4 December opens the December run of Varvara–Sava–Nikola.
Traditions & customs
The folk saying "Varvara boils, Sava bakes, Nikola receives the guests" strings the three December days into one culinary run-up to Nikulden. On Varvara's day boiled wheat or corn is handed out for children's health.
Popularity & notable bearers
Varvara is rarer today but keeps strong folk and calendar memory; Barbara appears in families with Western ties.