Tradition of 'sworn virgins' dying out in Albania

In this strongly patriarchal society where for centuries women had virtually no standing, sworn virgins enjoyed the same rights and respect as men. They could inherit property, work for a living and sit on the village council, although without the right to vote. The privileges came at a price. They took an oath of celibacy and could never have sexual relations. And they could never go back to being women.


FULL ARTICLE:
http://www.welt.de/english-news/article2536539/Tradition-of-sworn-virgins-dying-out-in-Albania.html