The village of Shiroka Laka (an architectural reservation) is famous not only in Bulgaria, but around the world for its Rhodope style architecture, traditions, and musical past.
Nearby Shiroka Laka are the villages of Stoykite, Gela, Stikal, and Solitsa, where the Christian ancestry mixes with the Bulgarian Muslims in the area (Islamization of the Rhodope region took place during the Ottoman rule - 17th century).
The natural features, uncertainty during the Ottoman period, economic prosperity, and national consciousness of the people are reflected in the architecture of the houses, which are built in a large Rhodope style. They have two floors with bay windows and tall stone chimneys, small windows, wooden staircases, and a small cellar with a hiding place. The rooms are furnished with cupboards in the walls. Fountains sit in the middle of the cobbled courtyards. All of this is designed with taste and in harmony with nature.
A few kilometers higher, the mythical singer Orpheus was born in the village of Gela. In the spirit of the traditions there, a music school was established in Shiroka Laka, which can be seen today. Also, one of the best folklore and music festivals is held every August in Gela.
Village
Bulgaria
Macedonia
Romania
Shiroka Laka