Visiting Shishkovtsi with stories about the Master

Welcome to Shishkovtsi, the picturesque village where the inspiration of Vladimir Dimitrov – the Master comes alive through flavors, aromas and stories. I am Aunt Vanya, and I invite you to my home to create together one of the Master’s most favorite recipes – the Kyustendil vegetable stew. This experience is not just culinary – it is a journey through time that will reveal to you the world of the artist who loved the simple joys of life.

The vegetable gardener's workshop

You will immerse yourself in the art of making zelnik – a tradition that combines authenticity and love for local products. In winter, we will fill the zelnik with sauerkraut, leeks, peppers and tomatoes, and in summer – with fresh watercress and beetroot leaves. I will show you how to twist the crusts of the twisted banitsa that surrounds the filling, and what makes zelnik exceptional when baked in a sub-oven – the crusts, slightly smoky and crispy, are a true masterpiece.

The stories behind the taste

While we knead the dough and arrange the layers of the zelnik, I will tell you about the Master – about his humble life in Shishkovtsi, about his attachment to the village and his love for everything natural. Although he did not consume meat or alcohol, he adored sheep’s yogurt, „kia – pogacha“ (our tutmanik) and, of course, the zelnik, which is known here as „the Master’s zelnik“. You will hear how he loved to welcome guests and share simple but delicious rural food.

Visit to the Master's House (optional)

You can continue your journey into the world of the Master by visiting the house-museum where he lived and worked from 1923 to 1950. There you will see the room where he painted and explore the exhibition of his photographic documents and personal belongings. A local guide will introduce you to the atmosphere of his world and answer all your questions.

Why should you visit me?

Well, it's not just because of the greengrocer. This is an opportunity to feel the spirit of the Kyustendil region, which the Master called "paradise on earth". You will see why the nature, people and customs here were his inspiration and you will experience the unadulterated beauty of rural life.

Welcome to Shishkovtsi! You will leave with new culinary skills, delicious memories, and inspiration that will warm you for a long time.