I asked our guide about the reasons for the colors and for the scrollwork around the windows. And the scrollwork has its origins in paganism, when people used to believe that evil spirits could enter a home through the windows. The scrollwork was designed to keep these spirits out of the house. Next, we visited the outdoor crystal market. Vendors there work at the crystal factory, or have relatives who do, and they are paid in merchandise rather than money.
Prices are very low.
From the market, we went to a crystal museum, housed in a converted church. During the communist era, the onion dome and spire were cut off. This is an unusual building, which doesn't resemble most churches over here. It is made of dark red brick and is longer and lower than most churches. The former sanctuary is filled with exhibits of the various glass and crystal products made over the years by the factory.