Leshten Gallery

The gallery in Leshten has no name, no website or Facebook page, but frankly speaking it does not need these - anyone in Leshten and Kovachevitsa can show you the way there. Alternatively, follow the main road through Leshten and you will find it on your left on the exit to Kovachevitsa. The first thing you will see is a prim village yard with a sign. The owner (a famous Bulgarian poet and an artist working with stone) will meet you in person and will lead you through. The gallery is a quaint artistic place with a huge bay window that reveals gorgeous views of the surrounding Pirin Mountain and Rila Mountain. Soft music is on while you are looking around and listening to the host telling stories. And stories to tell he has a lot, especially about stones - they are his passion and his inspiration. The lady of the house is a painter and has also contributed with her paintings on display. Leshten Gallery works mainly with contemporary Bulgarian authors - paintings, prints, watercolours, etc. as well as unique woodcraft statues and household utensils made from natural wood can be seen and purchased on the spot. The gallery also sells rare books and photographs and our host's stone creations of course.

At the back of the Gallery there are few wooden benches, where one can sit and yield to the breathtaking panoramic views of the area. Open every day during the week Leshten gallery is one of the most attractive places for a short break in the southwestern Rhodope. It often hosts classical and jazz music performances and jam sessions and accepts orders for the production of various memorabilia and souvenir items for private and company events.