Setomaa is one of the most unique, yet undiscovered regions of Estonia. It is located on the border of Estonia and Russia therefore the culture of Setos, the people living in Setomaa, is influenced by both cultures, yet maintaining their own traditions and values. The Setos are especially well known for their traditional way of singing (Seto leelo), which is on the UNESCO list of Intangible Cultural Heritage. In addition to their own singing traditions, the Setos have their own language, remarkable and colorful national clothes and impressive silver jewelry, as well as cuisine. Being part of the Orthodox church makes their mindset different from that of Estonians.
The tour is guided by Mrs. Helen Külvik, an experienced guide and passionate ambassador of Seto culture. She has been a member of the Seto community for over 20 years and works for the Seto Institute.
The tour takes guests to meet the local people of Setomaa visiting a family-run café, a soap maker, an artisan’s gallery, a caretaker of the local chapel and a young farmer family. All of them are eager to share the best of their lifestyle, culture, values and stories with visitors.
PROGRAMME:
- Tartu – Setomaa. A bus ride from Tartu to Setomaa takes about 1 h 15 min. On the way, the guide will talk about Setomaa.
- Inara’s Vanavalge Kohvitarõ (a café). Making traditional dumplings (pelmeny) together with the hostess Inara Luigas and listening to her stories about the Seto cuisine. For lunch, enjoy the dumplings and other delicacies of the Seto kitchen.
- “Saatse boot”. Driving through the 800-meter “Saatse boot” – a Russian territory within Estonia. No visa required.
- Old George’s soap shop. Driving to Kolossova village and visiting the Old George’s soap shop. Silver Hüdsi, the shop owner, will tell stories about living “in the middle of nowhere”.
- Obinitsa museum. In Obinitsa local museum one of the guests will be dressed up as a Seto. Admire the beauty and logic of the clothes and impressive silver jewellery, and listen to the magical Seto leelo.
- Seto gallery. Visiting the Seto gallery to meet Ülle and Evar, great storytellers, and making one’s own personal Seto-themed souvenir using the block-printing technique. Visiting the art, handicraft and souvenir store “Kunstizaal” (the Art’s Hall).
- Serga Orthodox chapel. Eevi, the caretaker of the chapel, will show the chapel and tell about living by the border.
- Rikka Ivvani Farm. A drive to Küllätüvä village to visit a young family on their authentic Seto farm. There are sheep and other pets, there’s music and real rural life. Having dinner together with the hosts and cooking some of the dinner with them.
- Return to Tartu (ca 1 h 30 min).
