Shiroka Laka
Shiroka Laka is architectural-ethnographic sanctuary, the only one of its kind in Bulgaria. This small village is the symbol of the Rhodopes culture and spirit. It has preserved the unique flair for beauty, grace and harmony of the people living in the Rhodopes Mountains.
The church and monastery complex in the center of the village is a monument of great architectural value. The centuries old, ‘Uspenie Bogorodichno’ church, was built in only 40 days. The interior is embellished with carved wood, old icons and murals. An unknown icon painter from the Samokov School painted 10 of the icons. The iconostasis was made in 1835-1836.
The local ethnographic museum hosted by the Kalendzhieva House holds an astonishing collection of kitchenware, utensils, ‘Kukeri’ masks as well as looms. The Kukeri masks and the related costumes can be seen if one participates in or goes to the Kukeri Festival, that is held annually during the first week of March.
Shiroka Laka is also well known for the Bulgarian Musical School of Folklor Singing and Art. It was founded in 1971. Besides traditional Bulgarian songs and music, traditional instruments such as mandolin, wooden flute, bagpipe and rebec are taught as well. |
Bulgaria 
