Village of Shiroka Luka

Shiroka Luka, located 16 km from Pamporovo and 23 km northwest of Smolyan, is distinguished by its authentic Bulgarian character and rich history. The village is home to the National School of Folklore Arts, which preserves and passes on Bulgarian folklore to new generations.
Among the attractions in the area is the rock formation "The Maiden," located about a kilometer from the village on the way to Vrabchevo. According to legend, this rock resembles a maiden who was turned to stone to protect her honor from Turkish soldiers.
Shiroka Luka is famous for its authentic Rhodope houses, situated amphitheatrically around the Shirokolukha River. Among the most notable are the Zgurovska, Uchikovska, and Grigorovska houses. The village is declared an architectural and folklore reserve.
Historical data show that the area has been inhabited since the 13th century BC and is linked to the ancient cult of Dionysus, reflected in the Kukeri games. During the Ottoman rule, the local population resisted attempts at Islamization, and legends tell of the residents' salvation during attempts at forced conversion.
Shiroka Luka is also known for traditional holidays such as Lazarovden, Christmas, and New Year's Day, as well as the Kukeri festival “Pesponedelnik,” held on the first Sunday of March, known for its masquerade games for fertility and health. The village offers excellent opportunities for tourism, including trails to the Ice Cave and the rock formation "The Maiden."