The idea
We dream of turning the village of Golyama Zhelyazna into an international arts and crafts centre.
We are working to restore some of the main buildings in the village such as the old school, the bakery and the bathhouse and aim to make the place a draw for creative people interested in culinary arts and crafts.
Our story
The village of Golyama Zhelyazna is beautiful. You fall in love with it at first sight, as soon as you see the blue waters of the Sopot dam and the rich greenery that surrounds it. It's quiet, it's benevolent.
And its people are just like that — kind and smiling. When we first saw it, we were lost.
Without knowing it, we had actually found a dream.
We stumbled upon the school in the village by chance. We crossed its threshold uninvited, opening room after room.
We didn't know his story, but we saw its end.
Today we continue to do the same, but now we transform room after room. In 2026 we will cross its threshold again. And we will invite everyone.
For the story to continue.
The school
According to documents from the 1920s, Golyama Zhelyazna was a key craft and trade centre in the region with more than 3 500 inhabitants. During an official visit to the region, King Boris III was impressed by the construction of the new school complex. He promised the village government that he would support the development of this grand undertaking. In 1930-1932 the school complex in Golyama Zhelyazna was opened under the patronage of Tsar Boris III.
The complex has been accepting children for 74 years and officially closed its doors in 2006. It remained abandoned until 2021, when the Sharena Zadruga team opened it. We believe that the initiative to create an international culinary arts and crafts school will not only create new opportunities for the people of the region, but will help transform the village as a regional arts and crafts and cultural centre and contribute significantly to the promotion of culinary arts and crafts.
Why here and now?
Because our country is an example of diversity and accumulation of culinary traditions. Bulgarian cuisine, as part of the Balkan flavours, serves yasitia inspired by regional ingredients and preparation methods.Our country is also one of the most economically, socially and culturally favourable European destinations.
The availability of skilled artisans and a variety of craft techniques is another important aspect that creates an ideal environment for learning and developing skills in various craft disciplines such as ceramics, textiles, wood carving, etc.
The establishment of an international school of culinary arts and crafts in Bulgaria will not only attract local and international students, but will also contribute to the promotion of Bulgarian crafts and culture, as well as Balkan cuisine.
