1. Welcome to Shkodra,And thank you for choosing to visit our region!The Shkodra region offers you an extraordinary natural view, a surprisingjourney among the ruins of a glorious past and the vigour of an intactnature.The historical and artist richness, the cultural vivacity, the ancient traditionsstill alive, the beauty of the places and the geographic central position,make this territory of great importance in Albania.The Shkodra Regional Council, thanking the Italian Government and theMolise Region for carrying out this work, is glad to offer this guide, as a tollto enjoy the mostly suggestive places of our land.This guide, in fact, offers to the careful reader, desirous to know a widerange of information: from the history to the art, from traditions toenogastronomy.Wishing you a pleasant stay and a welcome coming back, I left you to thehistory, art, tradition, folklore, nature, typical products and to the well-known Shkodra hospitality. Prof.as. Dr. Gjovalin Kolombi President of the Regional Council of Shkodra

2. GreetingsWith great satisfaction I welcome the realization of this tourist guide ofthe Shkodra Region. When an international co-operation project gene-rates a clear result it does not only mean to achieve the goal, but alsoto give a contribution in order to enhance the role of the local bodiesinvolved in the activities.I hope that this small contribution, funded by the Italian Governmentand by Molise Region, may be a positive sign of the tourism revival ofthe city of Shkodra, rich in art and traditions and, mainly in natural re-sources represented by a lake, the real environmental potential for anAlbanian area in continuous evolution.I express my favourable opinion for the Local Economic DevelopmentAgency of Shkodra Teuleda, the UNDP, and the Local Action GroupMolise Verso il 2000 of Campobasso, implementing bodies of theproject, which supported, every time and with a great collaboration,prof. Novelli who achieved a work of great scientific value.Senator Michele Iorio President of Molise Regionand Vice-President of the Adriatic Euroregion3Greetings 3. Foreword This guide has a basic peculiarity; the authors of the contributions are competent in tourist field, are inhabitants of the Shkodra Region who place their experiences at tourist - readers disposal or, if external to the Region, describe as a story their own experience along the roads and paths. Different from a paternalistic concept of printed guides, this formulation is addressed to a reader that may have the choice to elaborate a direct and autonomous experience. In other words, we hope that our reader may use the guide as a counsellor, a point of reference of its own journey, but he may keep the taste of curiosity and personal initiative. The open structure of the work, it may seem a lack of classic guides authors. But in the last period widespread the trend in producing guides to interpret and not to follow, we take the rightful place inside this typology of trend. The guide is addressed to the European and not European tourist, who chooses Albanian as travel and holiday destination. Also this choice is originated by the following good reasons. Firstly the guide is not the result of private institutions, it is the result of an International Programme, where are involved the Molise Italian Region, the Albanian institution of Shkodra and Local Development Agencies. Secondly, the promotion of international tourism is an important potentiality to improve the development of the Albanian tourist system and for a relevant entry of Albania in the Mediterranean Tourism Geography. We hope that the guide will have several readers and visitors.4 They are, for the majority, vocational tourists, that means with special interests: campers, young with rucksacks, ecologists, Balkanists,Foreword etc.. The guide would help them to better understand the country, the region and the city of Shkodra and to improve the economy of time, emotions, experience of their holiday. We are expecting, and the local inhabitants too, great results thanks to the word-of-mouth marketing among friends, acquaintances, magazines, blogs, web sites etc.. We hope to be able to discover in the next period that our work has been useful. edited by Prof Renato Novelli* * Renato Novelli is Professor of Sociology of tourism and local development at the Polyte- chnic University of Marche, in Albania he edited the guides of Valona and Durazzo. 4. Practical InformationBefore leavingThe best times to visit ShkodraHow to arrange your tripNaturally summer is suggestedas the region is slightly cooler. InA journey in the Shkodra region cities the average summerdoes not require a specialtemperature is 26, althoughpreparation. No vaccinations aresome days are sultry, humid andrequired. Fearful or anxiousthe thermometer is above 30C.travellers, that the sociologistThis is in town of course, whileBurke calls psycocentric, that arethe Theth Park and the Razmaalways worried about findingarea stay quite cool even duringthemselves in difficulty in a far the summer season. There arelocation, can leave quite calm, appropriate times for to visit injust remembering to carry other seasons too however. Inspecific medicines for those whoparticular, during the springneed special care. We suggest toseason in the months of Marchput a pair of suitable shoes in and April. In May theyour luggage for walking in the temperature is almost summery.mountains and countryside.The land of the wildShkodra is a rainy town. As a pomegranate, as Shkodra haspopular saying goes it is asbeen defined, is particularlydifficult to find a dry person from interesting and suggestive inShkodra as it is to find one from spring when the trees blossom,Lezha with neatly combed hair especially for anyone who enjoys(with reference to the relentlessly identifying flowers. November isstrong winds in Lezha, a nearby by far the wettest of the winterseaside resort).months.5Shkodra from the Rozafa Castle Practical Information 5. The maps of theregion, of the city andgenerally usefulinformationUnfortunately it is difficult to find At newsstands and in bookstoresa map of the region of Shkodra in a map of the city can be found,town. It is better to get a goodalthough it is not very detailed itmap of Albania before departure is still useful to identify places toor to buy one in the capitalhave nice walks.Tirana.MONTENEGROKOSOVO MACEDONIA6Practical InformationGREECE 6. Shkodra, walkwayDOCUMENTSThe national Identity Card is sufficient for Italians, while a passport isrequired for other EU citizens.MONEY AND BANKSThe Lek is the Albanian currency. In April 2009 one Euro wasequivalent to 130 lek. Money can be changed in the bankswhich are open from Monday to Friday until 16.00. In town thereare cash dispensers everywhere. In almost all shops and restaurantsthe euro is accepted.In villages it is more prudent to have Lek.Warning: often many traders and shopkeepers give the price in old lek;when they say that a small pair of scissors cost, for example, three hundredLek they mean thirty of the real lek that you have in your pocket. So avoidhasty reactions of annoyance.DISABLED TRAVELLERSIn the centre and in the main streets there is the necessary in-frastructure for the passage of wheelchairs.ELECTRICITY AND POSSIBLE HITCHESThe current is 220 volts. Plugs are European standard, adaptersare not required.During the day you may experience a lack of electricity, althoughit happens rarely, the main hotels and public places are equipped withprivate generators.Maximum attention is recommended in walking the streets of Shkodra:cars and the many bicycles do not usually give way to pedestrians. 7HEALTHThe running water is quite good, but it is more advisable, al- Practical Informationthough not essential, to drink mineral water. The hepatitis B vac-cine is recommended as is an anti tetanus, especially if you planto make long trips to the mountains and in remote areas.BOOKS ON THE AREA, THE REGION AND THE NORTH OF ALBANIAKadar Ismail File HLucas Peter Rumpalla 2002, Library of congressGjergji Andromaqi Albanian Costumes Through the centuries Tirana 2004Gjergji Andromaqi Albanian costumes through the centuries Academyof sciences of Albania. Institute of folk culture Tirana 2004Biagini Antonello Storia dellAlbania contemporanea Bompiani 7. Shkodra from the Rozafa CastleHow to get toShkodraBUS, CAR, TRAINDISTANCES FROM SHKODRA (KM) AND JOURNEY TIMESTirana Km. 991h 30min Rinas (Al)Km. 941h 10minDurrs Km. 105 1h 40min Pristina (Ks) Km. 210 6hShngjin (Al) Km. 6040min Podgorica (Mne) Km. 6050minValona (Al)Km. 2243hSkopje (Mk) Km. 235 5h 30minBar (Mne)Km. 46 55minFrom Tirana to Shkodra by BusThe bus leave from the street next to the railway station in Tirana,every one hour. Tickets cost about 250 - 300 lek. From Shkodra, thebuses leave from the Hotel Rozafa area. There are also ten- seater minibu-ses. Departure depends on reaching a sufficient number of passengers.By CarYou can hire taxis to and from Tirana.Taxis in the city are located in the square of the Hotel Rozafa, or youcan request a hire car from the hotel where you are staying. The price forRinas airport is around 40 Euros. The airport is less than two hours away.By Train8 Two trains a day from Tirana to Shkodra. Stops in Lac, Milot, Lezha.The Albanian trains are a "legend" among Albanians due to theirPractical Informationslowness. For a first time tourist in the country, small stations can be inte-resting and the slowness may be a rediscovery of the landscape. But youmust have good reasons!Shkodra from the Rozafa Castle 8. Mountain villagesVOLIJOURNEY TIMES BY AIRRome1h 50 minVerona 2h 50 minBergamo 1h 50 minBologna 1h 40 minBari35 minBrescia 1h 50 minMilan2hPisa 1h 30 minFlorence1h 40 minAll flights and times to Tirana from the main Italian cities.Flights from ItalyALITALIAfrom Rome to Tirana: the departure from Rome is scheduled at 10,15 amwith arrival at 11,45 am and 10,00 pm arriving at 11,45 pm.The return from Tirana to Rome is scheduled for 05,30 am with arrival inRome at 07,30 am and at 12,35 am arriving at 2,05 am.from Milan to Tirana: daily, a departure from Milan Malpensa airport is sche-duled at 5,30, arriving at 7,25 pm. The return from Tirana to Milan is ex-pected at 8,15 pm with arrival at 10,15 pm.ALBANIAN AIRWAYSfrom Rome to Tirana: three times a week, Monday, Wednesday andSaturday: departure at 10,55 am, arriving at 12,25 am.The return from Tirana to Rome on Monday, Wednesday and Satur-day, with departure scheduled at 08,20 am arriving at 10,55 am. 9From Bologna to Tirana: on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Sun-day with departure scheduled at 4,20 pm and arrival at 5,50 pm. Practical InformationThe return on Monday, Tuesday and Sunday with departure at 3,00pm and arrival at 4,30 pm.BELLE AIR (LOW COST)Flights to and from Tirana from the following Italian airportsAncona, Bari, Bergamo, Florence, Forl, Genova, Milan (Malpensa),Perugia, Parma, Cuneo, Pisa, Rome (Fiumicino), Trieste, Treviso, Ve-rona.N.B. this schedule may change, contact the airlines or the airport before flying. 9. BY FERRYJOURNEY TIMES BY FERRYBari 13hBrindisi10hAncona 16h Trieste 24hShip to Durres fromTown Departure - arrival From Durres toFrom Trieste to Durres 13.00 - 13.00 (24 h)13.00 (24 h) Tue Thu Sat Tue Wed SunFrom Ancona to Durres22.00 - 13.00 19.00 - 13.00 MondayFri Sat SunFrom Bari to DurresDaily atDaily at 23.00 - 08.00 23.00 - 08.0010Practical Information Lake Shkodra 10. Overview of the regionThe environment gest river in Albania. An impor-tant feature is the high ampli-and the territory tude, that is the variation of thebanks on the basis of rains andThe region is strongly characteri-the connection of the lake withzed by the presence and the inte- the river Drin and Buna whichraction of four ecosystems: a due to the Sirocco wind often, re-lake, rivers, the seaboard with the turns some drained water back toVelipoja lagoon, the mountain the lake itself. The Amplitude isand by a symbolically significant roughly 2.5 to 5 meters.ecotype, the huge, irregular rock Along the banks, 147 species ofof Rozafa.typical wetland plants grow.The lake is the largest of the Bal- Among which the wild pomegra-kan Peninsula. Its area of 368nate is particularly important vi-Km2, belongs for two thirds tosually for tourists. More of aMontenegro and one third to Al- shrub than the tree that we arebania. A depression of Karsticused to seeing cultivated, the mi-origin formed the area. The lakenute and tender leaves are veryis the source of Buna river, that light green and the small sizedon the foots of the castle flowsfruits are an intense yellow withwith the river Drin, this is the lon- the typical brilliant red veins. ALake Shkodra from the Rozafa Castle discreet show, of contained andmodest beauty along the slopes,which makes walking more inten-sively reflective, with their specta-cular blossoming. 282 species of11birds live in the ecosystem of theOverview of the regionlake, for the pleasure of birdwat-ching tourists. The types of peli-cans (Pelecanus occidentalis,Pelecanus rufescens, PelecanusThagus and six other species) arethe last remaining native Euro-pean species. The water is rich inalgae and there are 700 speciesof micro algae, which constitutethe invisible flora of the depthsknown as benthic flora, whichmakes a decisive contribution tothe characteristics of the water.Part of the charm of Shkodra 11. Buna River bank 12. Shiroka villageLake, with its bright, clear water, itreaches Dukagjini to bend to theis precisely due to these invisible South as far as Vau Dejes, whereguests. About 70 species of fishit flows into the southern part ofare present and are the target of Shkodra Lake through two bran-local fishers, from the carp, which ches. The first flows into theis quite the lady of the lake and Adriatic to the south east of the(unfortunately for her) also for thecity of Lezhe. The other flows intoShkodra cooking tradition, to the the river Buna near the castle ofgrey mullet and the eel. TheRozafa. Buna and Drin leave thelakes fish have always had great lake as a single river, also knowneconomic and nutritional impor- by the name of Great Drin (Drin itance for the local communities.madh). Buna and/or Drin are uni-s the historian Montanari said, inque in the world: a stretch ofthe early Middle Ages throughoutwater just 14 Km long, from theEurope and in the Arabic Middle lake, which has a water flow rateEast, given the limitations of theof 320 m3 / s. of 3 cubic metersagricultural economy, fresh water per second.fisheries were the main source of The Buna, in fact, is linked to thenutrition for the poor. Rivers with current in the lake coming fromabundant waters flow through thethe river Moraca, following theplains of the region and close to Moraca line, Shkodra Lake,the city of Shkodra. From the hi- Buna. Once the Buna was longer,gher ground and from Rozafa, thebut the elevation of Shkodra Lakeview of the two rivers is sugge-has reduced its course. Broad,stive. The Drin, with its three with banks that are often verydams, plays an important role ingreen it passes through a serieseconomic terms with its supply of of villages: Zues, Berdice, Tarra-electricity. It has created two artifi- giat, Oblika, Obot, Shirq, Dajc,cial lakes, that of Fierza shared Gorica. At its mouth is in thewith Kosovo and Vau i Dejs (Li-Adriatic, the Buna, a few Km 13qeni i Vau te Dejs in Albanian). north of Velipoja and clearly visi-The Drin starts at the confluence ble from the marsh Vepipoja, Overview of the regionof two rivers, called the black Drinforms a lagoon right on the bor-and the white Drin in the area of der with Montenegro, where thereTrektan in Kukes, east of Shko- is the fluvial island of Ada Bojanadra, close to Kosovo. The Black (Ada means island in the Monte-Drin (Drini I Zi) comes from Lake negrin language and Bojana isOhrid and runs for a stretch in the name of Buna), which has anMacedonia before coming backarea of 6 square km and is theinto Albania. The White Drinlargest of Montenegro. Popular(Drini I Bardhe) has its source inassumption has it that Ada Bo-the Zljeb Mountain, north of thejana was formed around thecity of Pec in the region of Meto-wreck of a ship which sank in thehija in Kosovo. It runs through the nineteenth century. Today it is fre-north of Albania in Has area, thenquented by nudists from all over 13. Sunset on the lake Europe. Another small island be-species that are found in Albania. longs to Albania and it is called The fauna includes 20 species of Island of Franz Joseph which, inmammals including bears, wol- contrast to Ada Bojana, is a natu-ves, lynx, deer and wild goats. In ral formation. Tourists visit it du-addition to 50 species of nesting ring the summer period. The birds in the area, 10 species of Buna is navigable by small andreptiles and 8 species of amphi- medium-sized boats and it is pos- bians. sible to make excursions. VelipojaThe rock on which the fortress of is located near a marsh that is in- Rozafa stands remains the most teresting for the wealth of aquatic individually impressive phenome- fauna, avifauna and together with non in the area: a large formation the marsh of Buna is the thirdof rock, that rises high and steep ecosystem that characterizes theabove a vast plain with the rivers region of Shkodra. The mountainsDrin and Buna forming a crown. are the most common image ofPossible comparisons: the block the region of Shkodra.of marble where the Acropolis is The Albanian Alps are massive located in Athens, the plateau of with the highest mountain in Alba-Temple Mount in Jerusalem or nia, Jezerca (2.692,1 meters).the seven hills to which the follo- You access to the mountains inwers of Romulus were attracted. the north east of Shkodra, passing14 through the village of Boge where Shiroka, lake shore the paved road ends and public transport too. The road continuesOverview of the region up to Theth, village which gave its name to the National Park and a crown of mountains covering an area of 2630 hectares. In addition to Jezerca there is also the typical rigorous Albanian mountain lan- dscape: Arap, Papluka, Alija. Wa- terfalls, sparkling rivers, cliffs, caves, such as of Arapi Peak: a succession of ecotypes of great beauty and singular importance. The park has a rich flora of 1500 species of plants, nearly half of all 14. Shkodra from the MountainHistory of the cityseven towers built and rebuilt by the Venetians and Ottomans onand region the site of the ancient structure of a fortress that dates back to Illy-The city of Shkodra or Shkodra,rian times. The name of the towerScutari in Italian, Uskadar in Tur-comes from the legend of Rozafa,kish, Uskuder in Montenegro is wife of one of the builders of thethe most important urban centrefortress (see the Legend of Ro-of northern Albania, the fourthzafa).city in population in the country, The city, thanks to its position hasmeeting point of cultures of deepalways been an important centrevalleys and mountains of North. It of Albanian culture and links bet-rises south east of Shkodra Lake,ween the world of local societythe largest lake of the entire Bal-and the spiritual influences of thekans, which it shares with the eastern Mediterranean, over thesouthern region of Montenegrocenturies that preceded the foun-(169 km2 in Albania, Montenegrodation of a national state. The hu-199 km2) where the majority of manist Marin Barleti lived andthe population is Albanian. Shko-worked in Shkodra during thedra is the best known symbol of along years of the three sieges ofunique condition that affects allthe city by the Turkish army. Afterthe borders of Albania: the coun-the capture of the town by thetry is surrounded by other Alba- Sublime Porte, Barleti moved to15nians who represent ethnic Italy where he published in Latinminorities such as in MacedoniaDe obsidione Scodrensis (TheOverview of the regionor majorities, as in Kosovo. It is Siege of Shkodra, Venice 1504)the capital city of the district (rre- and Historia de vita et gestisthet) Shkodra. The area is cros- Skanderbergi (History of the lifesed by rivers Drini, Buna, Shala,and exploits of Skanderberg,Kiri and Gemi. The mountains ofRome 1508) that made the ven-the Albanian Alps create beautiful tures and the struggle of Skan-landscapes with mountain Je- derberg against the Turkishzerca (2.692,1). The heart of theEmpire known. Gjon Buzuk, ano-city is the fortress of Rozafa, do-ther writer from Northern Albania,minating Shkodra from the hill atwhose life we know nothingthe confluence of the rivers Bunaabout, wrote in Venice in 1555,and Kiri, with a perimeter of 600the oldest book in Albanian: 188meters and an area of 6 h. and pages "Meshar" (The Missal), a 15. City of Shkodra, the eighties series of commentary prayers totraditional society, with unwritten the Gospel. The most famous wri- rules that work for millennia, the ter born in Shkodra is the poetworld of local life with its unchan- and novelist Migjeni (Milosh Gjegi ging rhythms always that on the Nikolla 1911 - 1938). Born intocontrary adapt to each unique an Orthodox family, he studied inmoment. The history of Northern Bar and Bitola in Macedonia. HeAlbania is one of the themes of was a teacher in a school andthe great innovative analysis of died very young of tuberculosis in Braudel and the historians from an Italian sanatorium. His onlythe French Annales. Small busi- book of verse, "Vargjet e lira"ness relations, trading, local mi- (Free Verses) was composed bet-gration, the functional survival of ween 1933 and 1935. The main theme of the lyrics are suffering and misery. The collec- tion of 35 poems, published in 1936 was immediately banned by the authorities. He also wrote a series of short stories entitled "Tregiment nga Qyeti i Veriut"16 (Chronicles of a city in the north), which describes and explains the life in Shkodra during the regimeOverview of the region of King Zog, also dealing the theme of prostitution, which was then a taboo in Albania. The real history of the region of Shkodra,Gate ruins with stoned arch as for that of the whole of Alba- nia, can be described in terms oftradition beginning to produce a an encounter between two posi- real Adriatic Koin, when the end tions: on one hand the historicalof the sixteenth century the re- events, the great confrontationgion departs from great history. between the East and West that The myth of the founding of Ro- develops from the little Adriaticzafa, tells us that human settle- Sea, on the other hand the extra-ments are contemporary to the ordinary continuity of the local spread of Mycenaean civilization. 16. We know for sure that Shkodra without, however, losing its localwas inhabited from the earlycharacteristics. In 395 a.C. theBronze Age by Illyrian popula-Emperor Theodosius, during thetions from the tribe of Labeati,decline of Roman civilization thatbut in the third century BC, thehad by then become Mediterra-predominant tribe in the area was nean and European, divided thethat of Ardea.empire into two with what weIn the third century b.C. an Illy-today call the line of Theodosius.rian kingdom ruled the region Shkodra became part of the Ea-and Shkodra was the capital. Thestern Empire and the line markedchronicles tell of the king Agron.Albanias destiny for much longer.Son of the king Pleuratus who Byzantium ruled the area forruled from 250 to 230. Queenmany centuries, but by the end ofTeuta, his wife, remains one of the sixth century, attack by otherthe most well-known myths populations began, Slavs, Bulga-among the Albanians, for having rians, and the return of Byzantinefought against the Romans. Thecontrol. The chronicles tell oflast Illyrian king was Gentius, son these changes, but in 1346,of King Pleuratus, who followingShkodra organized their coexi-severay battles was defeated in stence on the basis of citizensShkodra by the Roman army led statutes, a clear sign of local au-tonomy. The Ottomans occupiedthe city, but in 1396, Shkodra be-came the city of Republic of Ve-nice until 1479, when after theyears of Skanderbergs struggleagainst the Turks and the inde-pendence of Albania, the Istanbulempire, took control of the wholeof Albania.17But at the same time, local lifefollowed different paths each si- Overview of the regiongnificant to the official historicalposition. We know from minoreconomic chronicles that throu-ghout the Middle Ages, Shkodrawas a centre for silk productionby Lucio Anicio Gallo and was and at the end of the fourteenthtaken to Rome in 167. The local century, we find border tax pay-Illyrian society, structured on the ments indicating significant silkbasis of trade and navigation, butexports. There are reports of im-also on its strong local organiza-portation of Bergamo cloth andtion, as can be observed from its other products of poorer quality,Kingdom, found itself incorpora-evidence of a significant manu-ted into the vast Roman empire, facturing industry, integrated into 17. Painting by Kole Idromeno. The Shkodran wedding a network of trade, away from po- domination, Shkodra keeps busi- litical events. In the Shkodra area ness relations with Venice. When silk dresses and clothes were great history made its entry once produced not only for local con-more through the mountains and sumption, but for the market, asalong the lake of the region, the written in Kanuname Shkodra invitality of the local society, emer- 1570. Politically, during the longged with determination. In 1879 centuries of Turkish domination,the first newspaper of Albania18 Shkodra was organized in relati-was published in Shkodra. vely autonomously, dominated by At the beginning of the twentieth local families. The real autonomy century, the national movementOverview of the region was the organization of local so- for Albanian independence found ciety, made up of the rural pa- fertile soil in figures like Luigj Gu- sture, of unwritten rules,rakuqi,. In 1911 the revolt in the traditions and relations that wereNorth of Albania against the Tur- constantly changed in part to kish domination, with the active adapt to situations, but always participation of the inhabitants of the same in substance, in a cli-the mountains, marked the end mate of continuity rare in otherof the administration of Istanbul. parts of Europe. The shepherdsOn 13 October 1912, just forty illustrated in the works of Unufri, days from the proclamation of in- differ little from those of the follo-dependence of Albania (28 No- wing centuries. Even in the ei- vember), Shkodra suffered the ghteenth century, in full Turkish longest siege in its history by the 18. army of King Nicholas of Monte- both formations worked. After thenegro. Only after six months didend of the occupation, with thethe city surrender. But the Mon-primacy of the Communists,tenegrin troops had to withdraw Shkodra became a "difficult" city.due to international pressure and Religious institutions were underthe determination by the inhabi-attack for restrictions, then closedtants of the city that they proclai-in 1967 throughout Albania, andmed that the city was Albanian. Shkodra was an institutional andFrom May 1913, Shkodra livedhistorical centre of religious life.under the administration of the The city was administrative, com-European powers. On 28 Novem- mercial, with a strong urban in-ber 1914, the Albanian flag was come and towns were directedhoisted on the fortress of Rozafa towards the development of indu-and the Marubi pictures docu- strial centres. In Koplik and Po-ment the event. Meanwhile instriba in 1945 - 1946 someDurres, Prince Wilhelm Wied had revolts took place against the newlanded, King of Albania as desi-regime. The first, chronologically,gnated by the major Europeanof the new socialist "continent".powers in their final delirium, Shkodra became an industrialcommitted to collective suicide city in textiles, tobacco manufac-during the First World War. The turing, processing of wood andinternational troops left the field copper. In 1990, the anti-regimeto the Weid troops on the March mobilization developed and reli-16, 1914, only 4 months beforegious institutions reopened. Inthe outbreak of the Great War.1991, during demonstrationsThe area of the mountains calledagainst the government concer-Malaysia had participated inning electoral frauds, four de-events, but the Canun, the Besa,monstrators were killed duringthe family and village relationsclashes with the police, and todaywere still alive, albeit in a different there is a monument that remem- 19way.bers the event. Its subsequentAs happened with Wilhelm of development in the transition to-Overview of the regionWeid, the Italian administrationwards a market economy chan-that emerged from the 1939 inva-ged the face of the city, but thesion, lasted the space of a mor-urban distortion is visually lessning (historically famous) andapparent than in other Albanianwas transformed into occupation cities. The centre was still a livingfirst Italian - German and aftertestimony of the architecture of8th September 1943 into Germanthe past and in recent years, theoccupation. In the country the re-projects to recover the city andsistance against the Axis forcesurban planning are defining theemerged. The Communists and face of the city as a urban lan-nationalists, simplifying the dscape of the intense life madescheme, were protagonists in dif- by walks, cafes, shopping centresferent proportions. In Shkodrathat distinguish Albanian life. 19. Town hall of Shkodra Political institutions Social Plan for the area in colla-boration with the Italian regions of Qarku: Region, in Albanian: coor-Emilia Romagna and Marche. dinates the policies of regional in- This Plan is the key instrument of terest that municipalities mustpolicy coordination and public adopt. health, connecting the public wel-fare institutions, the third sector Prefectura: Prefecture. Check theof the associations and the pri- government acts of the municipa- vate bodies. Other cities with a lities. It is also responsible for Social Plan for the area in Albania water. are Elbasan and Vlore. Bashkir: Municipality of reasona-Komun: has the same prerogati- ble dimensions: responsible forves of the Bashkir, with more li- the town, town planning. With amited powers due to its small new law the Bashkir are responsi-size. A mayor is elected, typically, ble for social services. The admi- the Komun includes a number of nistration of Shkodra hasvillages and the mayor appoints a developed a pilot project of the person to be responsible for eachvillage.20 Prefects office of ShkodraOverview of the region 20. Mary Edith DurhamMary Edith Durham was born in 1863, dau-ghter of a famous doctor. She attended a fe-male college and, like all the young women ofVictorian period, she learnt watercolour pain-ting, as used in that period. But she did notstop at the level of culture of a good mannersfuture bride, deepening painting and at theage of 22 she attended the Royal AcademySchools where she exhibited three paintings.On the death of her father Edith was full-timedevoted to her mother who had a poor health. Around 35 years she hada crisis that today we may call psycho - somatic, a mix of psychologicalmalaise due to a sense of enclosure of life and a real physical indisposi-tion. The family doctor advised her a long journey as therapy. In 1900,at the age of 37 Edith left for the Balkans, arriving in Montenegro, "re-mote" area of the region, the most easily accessible for the citizens ofNorthern European countries. In the Balkans she discovered a genuinevocation for travel writing, ethnography and political - social chronicle. In1903, dealing with the revolt of Macedonia, she "met the Albanians" andshe never stopped to devote her energy and feelings to the self - deter-mination cause of the Albanian people. The region of Shkodra was thearea that sentimentally struck her, also because it was the only placewhere a woman could travel in absolute safety. Over the years, the acti-vities of Durham was always intense and the fascination that popular cul-ture and the Albanian society had exercised over her, also became workcommitment on international political events of the country. In particular,the North of Albania and Shkodra were always her strong interest. Her 21definition for the region of Shkodra "the land of the living past" has beenforever the most effective summary image of continuity with the past, inOverview of the regionthe Albanian society.Her most important books available in Albanian bookshopsor on Amazon web site are: Through the Lands of the Serb (1904) The burden of the Balkans (1905) High Albania (1909) The struggle for Scutari (1914) Twenty Years of Balkan Tangle (1920) The Serajevo Crime (1925) Some Tribal Origins, Laws and Customs of the Balkans (1928) Albania and the Albanians: selected articles and letters, 1903-1944, ed.by Betjullah Destani (I.B. Tauris, 2001) 21. Economy of the region under Albanian The region has 247,394 inhabi- tants. 63% live in rural area and 37% in urban areas. The city of Shkodra has 111,758 inhabitants The labour force is estimated at 106,847 workers of which 78,261 employed and 28,586 jobseekers. Enterprises: 3998. There is one enterprise per 61 people, 26 wor- kers, 19 employed people. The sector of enterprises is thus divided:Shkodra, Secondary School Sector %Activity Agriculture 21,0Wheat, maize, vegetable garden, potatoes, pasture, olive Industry17,5Textile clothes, footwear, wood, mechanics Building19,0 Building materials, mechanical carpentry Services42,25 Restaurant, transport communication, trading, distribution networks Export Euro 16. 340. 420woodland and herbal products22 Import Euro 35,977,030which are exported. The vast Shkodra after Kukes has the hi- area of brackish and fresh water offers opportunities for good qua-Overview of the region ghest number of families recei- ving a public poverty allowance:lity fish farming. To underline the 30% Kukes, Shkodra 28%. Vlora,high level of employment in the has the lowest at 3.7%trading sector, in part residual Unlike other Albanian regions,sector and in part small-medium agriculture does not absorb local size investments of remittances employment. Indeed, withfrom emigrants. The hundreds of 53,693 hectares under cultiva-small building companies, have tion, is a qualified sector produ-absorbed the variously qualified cing quality products fromworkforce of 15,000 employees organic and biological agricultureof state enterprises for the pro- and in the food industry. In high duction of machines which went mountains there is mineral water, bankrupt in the early nineties. 22. Typical food productsbria), while in Shale beans are the speciality, in Bardhaj the oli-Honeyves are renowned and in KrebajIn the region of Shkodra, in the the dried figs, in Velipoje, nearancient popular ceremonies,the sea it is the turn of cucum-bees are presented as a symbol bers and tomatoes.of vitality and prosperity. The pro-duct, now rigorously tested in thelaboratories of UE countries, hasspecific qualities with a strongflavour of chestnut flowers, cloverand other medicinal herbs widelyused in the mountains of the re-gion. The Beekeeping Associa-tion of Shkodra and the"Cooperative of Beekeepers" canPotatoesbe contacted.Vermosh, Pult and Shlak pro- duce potatoes which are very dif-Medicinal Herbsferent from those imported forIn mountainous areas of the re-due to their lighter colour and dif-gion for more than eight monthsferent flavour. Production of thea year the pastures and the lake-seeds of these potatoes calledshore fields are characterized by"Bardha and vendit is also pro-the widespread presence of fuse.many species of naturally occur-ring herbs with medicinal quali-ties such as clover, thyme andwild apple. More than 20,000people gather herbs, earning partof their income from this activity. 23Forest productsOverview of the regionThe sweet chestnut comes fromthe area of Shllak, walnuts andboronia products from Pult,Onionsstrawberries, apples, pomegra- Onions from Drisht have a delicatenate, blackberries and other ber-flavour and can be found in manyries are also typical across the markets throughout Albania.region. In addition to these high qualityWild Vegetablesproducts, the typical dish of theMost of the products typically Shkodra region is carp in a saucegrown are organic. Onions areof prunes, Cacciamak is a kindcharacteristic in Drisht (as in Tro- of flat bread made from the po-pea in the Italian region of Cala- lenta that is typical in the North. 23. Wines Shkodra reveals a characteristic that is developing on both sides of the Adriatic: return to Italy or remain faithful in the eastern hills to indigenous local grapes, which are not as famous as the best- known grape varieties grown today throughout the world, ac- cording to the geography of inter- national wine, from the South Africa to Australia via South Ame- rica. The local wines have the (maybe exaggerated) advantage of being unique, an originality that the main varieties of the world cannot claim.good yield. The vines are quitestrong. The resulting wine, drunkyoung, has a high alcohol con-tent (over 12 degrees), it is an in-tense purplish red, ratheropaque, due in part to the wine-making systems, with hints ofripe grape, cut hay, violets, cher-ries, dried fruit and in particulardried figs.24Some producers started also theVranac grape vines growing, typi-cal from Montenegro. This wineOverview of the regionis sold in Montenegro and it is of-fered in several restaurants. The grape that features in mostThe young Vranac wine has a of the vineyards in Shkodra pro- high alcohol content, purplish duces the wine Kallmet. Thered with strong hints of ripe fruit grape of the same name has a and cherry. 24. aj MaliThe mountain as natural kingdom, a peculiarity of the region and the cityof Shkodra. In Albanian, mountain is Mali and one of the most importantcultural aspects is the poetry of the mountains, the "Malaysia" which pla-ced in the center of the emotional and expressive experience, landscape,people and the life of the Albanian mountains. A daily but smaller di-mension of the mountain is linked to a well known plant. For the Alba-nians it is called aj mali which is translated Tea of the Mountain. It neverentered into European cafes, nor in international medicine. Its scientificname is: Sideritis Syriaca. Here is its identity card: belongs to the familyof angiosperms, also known as magnoliofyte, from the magnolias. Theyare so called because the seed is protected by a cod. It is common in theBalkans, above 1000 meters in height. It is also known as shepherd Tea.The plants grow naturally and are not cultivated, but cropped. They flou-rish in rocky or in pastures areas. These plants surviving with little waterand a small area of soil. To give some noble attributes just rememberthat Suderitis syriaca grows in abundance at the foot of the OlympusMount and that the first written record of its existence dates back to theTreaty "Medical Matter", written by the Greek doctor Pedanius Dioscori-des, who lived during theNeronian time, withwhom, fortunately for him,never had anything to do.He traveled to the Medi-terranean with the legionsand studied the benefitsof the plants he harve-sted.The aj mali is good for25your health. It is used against cold, but it is also good for general pains,congestions, flu. It is antioxidant, anti-inflammatory. It contains flavonoids,Overview of the regionditerpenoidis, essential oils.It is prepared as a tea, it is served strictly with natural honey and lemon.It is sold in drugstores in Shkodra. Better distrust bags, but in the absenceof the original, you can risk.The color is deep yellow, strong flavor, slightly astringent. 25. The city of ShkodraShkodra (Scutari or Shkodr)Chief town of the Region of ShkodraCoordinates: 424 N 1930 EPopulation:109.000 (2008)Area Code: +355 (0) 22Car plates:SHName ofinhabitants: Skutarians (shkodrane) 26. English Tower 27. The city of ShkodraPractical InformationCultural, historical and architectural heritageGetting there from TiranaFrom Tirana to Shkodra the road of the cityis in fairly good condition. It hasrecently been surfaced, the trafficThe Castle of Rozafais not particularly intense. It is The castle is the crown of a rockalso possible to travel on the roadhill 113 meters high overlookingat night. After the junction for the the confluence of the rivers Drinairport the historic town of Kruja and Buma. In history and localappears on the right, followed byculture, this hill, the fortress toge-a series of villages to the right of ther with the ample valley thatthe travellers. From Rinas airport from the Castle disappears into theyou can go directly to Shkodra wi- vast horizon, is one of the buildingthout having to go to Tirana, cut- blocks of the local identity.ting at least thirty kilometres offThe fortress is the result of thethe journey. superimposition of structures of different eras, from the Illyrian period until recent centuries. The courtyards of the fortress are in- troduced by the so-called cyclo-Typical Skutarian alley29The city of Shkodra 28. The Castle of Rozafapean walls dating from the Illy-courtyards. The first was for de-rian period, large blocks of rock,fence, the second that is also thecarefully put together around the largest, was home to the garrisonmiddle of the fourth century B.C. and the third, the highest, wasThe Historical heart of the widethe best defended and housedplateau of the hill is the Church the commanders of the fortressof St. Stephen, built in 1319, en-itself.larged by the Venetians in Dal- Whenever necessary, the castlematian style during the fifteenth was equipped with secret passa-century along with other entran-ges. The Castle Museum housesces and new towers. It became a exhibitions of historical maps,mosque during the Turkish domi- other articles and handmade ob-nation, after the castle was besie- jects, special garments and ima-ged during the terrible period of ges related to the history of thethe long Turkish assault in the city and the area in times of itsBalkans. A picture of Marubi im-connection to the great events ofmortalizes the fortress, while thehistory and the texture of every-flag of independent Albania isday life. It is not very big, but it israised in 1914. interesting.After the walls there are threeThe Castle of Rozafa30The city of Shkodra 29. The fortress of Rozafa - LegendWe meet it in Shkodra coming from the South. It stands on a huge rockyhill ellipse-shaped, 130 meters high, its contours have a perimeter of881 meters and an area of 4 hectares. It is a special place asthe Parthenon in Athens, the seven hills of Rome and perhaps as allimposing or suggestive places or simply special, they are sites were inthe past used to meet nomadic peoples before the agricultural discovery,then became holy places. In any case, they were among the first to beinhabited by the Mediterranean humanity, became sedentary. Archa-eological research on the "magic" hill still continue, but there are tracesdating.the first settlements to the Bronze Age. The astonishing and disturbinglegend of its foundation, argues for a very old dating. The history, collec-ted by Ismail Kadar in "The bridges of the three arches" and by Ivo An-drich in "The Bridge on the Drina" tells of three brothers buildersinstructed to build the fortress. They built the fortress during the day, butcollapsed during the night. An old sage, told them that the destructionwas the work of demons and advised to wall a human being inside thewall to appease the destroyers spirits. The brothers decided after a mu->>>Entry gate of the Castle31The city of Shkodra 30. Worship object in the castle that from church became mosque during the Turkishoccupation.tual agreement to sacrifice one of their wives, by choosing to chance:would be walled the first who would bring the food of the midday mealto eat in the workplace. In this way they tried to let the fate to choose thevictim. Reached, of course, the agreement not to say anything to theirspouses. The two older brothers, in reality, warned their wives, the youn-gest, however, was faithful to the pact. His wife arrived first and was sa-crificed. She agreed, for obedience to mysterious forces greatest of men,but asked that a hole should be left so that her right arm could caress hernewborn son, her right breast could feed him, and her right foot couldrock his cradle. In that place the fountain called Rozafa, of calcareouswater, is still visible today, considered the source resulting from that le-gendary milk. The loyalty of younger brotherand acceptance of the sacrifice of his young wife, are elements of signi-ficant symbolic importance concerning the development of Mediterra-nean cultures of antiquity prior to the story. The famous French poetLamartine, quotes to explain the Rozafa legend the sacrifice of Iphigenia,32daughter of Agamemnon,whose death is sought by Artemis to protect the troops ache departing forTroy. If this legend chained Rozafa to the archaic Mediterranean, the fol-The city of Shkodralowing centuries left traces of history and strong continuity. Titus Livius,the Roman historian, defines the fortress clearly defense. The most im-portant traces date back to Medieval times, Venice and Turkish period.The styles and interventions overlap until the modern period. Here inShkodra, was lifted in 1914, the Albanian flag of independence. The St.Stephan Church, now a picturesque ruin church wasa Catholic church, then mosque, then safety place of important publicpeople. Then anything and now a popular tourist destination. Visiting Ro-zafa you can walk for impervious slopes of pebble, as if it were stilla city, get to the museum (do not miss the visit) or to appear at the mer-lon of walls to see the Buna river, and a vast horizon. 31. Passage from the 1st to the 2nd castle courtyard 32. Shkodra, the CathedralPLACES TO SEECULTURAL MONUMENTSTRADITIONAL HOUSESCastel of RozafaOso KukaKol Idromeno RoadPashko VasaBranko Kadia Road Roza SumaHamamiFilip CekaEnglisi Watch tower Sahati i In- Ramiz Bekteshiglizit Guliem SumaMonument of Isa BoletiniAsllan JukaMonument of Luigj GurakuqiShyqyri KalaciMonument of Preke CaliRiza TahiriCULTURAL AND SPORTING PLACES OF WORSHIPINSTITUTIONSMosque Ebu BekirUniversity Luigj Gurakuqi Mosque of PiomboLibrary Marin Barleti Mosque of TophanTheatre Migjeni Mosque of KirasHistorical museum Mosque of BacallekArt gallery Mosque of PerashMarubi Photographic archivesThe CathedralShkodra radio Franciscan churchStadium Church of Our Lady of Good CounselSport palaceOrthodox church Shkodra, Franciscan Church of OurPlaces of worshipLady of Rosary34Shkodra is a city rich in historyand the region has an architectu-The city of Shkodraral and cultural heritage of greatinterest.In town, the presence of the twokey religions of the Mediterra-nean: Sunnite Islam and Christia-nity, the latter present withCatholics and the Orthodoxchurch, has given rise to threedifferent religious groups that re-flect the pluralism of the culturein the area and the peaceful hi-storical cohabitation of the twofaiths. 33. Shkodra, Plumbit MosqueMoschee Shkodra, Ebu Bekir MosqueXhamia (Ebu Bekir)Built in 1995, with funding fromthe Egyptians and Saudis, accor-ding to Turkish style and dedica-ted to Ebu Bekir. It was builtwhere the mosque Fushe Celawas before the proclamation ofAlbania (an atheist state in thesixties) and it is the main refe-rence point for the vast Islamiccommunity in the city. The en-trance is in front of the ColosseoHotel and after prayer times visi-tors are welcome. Very impres-sive, with two particularly tallminarets. The interior has richdecorations.Xhamia e plumbitThe Mosque of lead, so-calledbecause the roof was construc-ted with this material in 1773.The mosque is clearly visiblefrom the castle of Rozafa. Todayit is in a flood zone, in the centreof a valley formed by the two ri-vers of Shkodra. 34. Shkodra, The Orthodox ChurchChurchesstyle building is the archbishoprichead office today.Kisha e madheThe catholic cathedral of the city. Zoja e BekuemeIt was built during the periodIn 1993, during his pastoral visit,1856 and 1898. In 1967 turned Pope John Paul II laid its corner-into a sports centre. Restored in stone and proclaimed Our Mo-1991 and unveiled by Mother ther of Good Counsel, patronTherese of Calcutta. Two yearssaint of Albania (see, page 40).after it was visited by Pope JohnPaul II, and consecrated the newKisha Orthodoxearchbishop Frano Elia, who du-Also known as the Church of thering the communist regime was Nativity. The cathedral of the Or-sentenced to death due to his thodox Christians.faith profession, but he was lifeprisoner. A statue of Pope JohnPaul II is placed in the church.Opposite the Cathedral, an Italian36Shkodra, the CathedralChurch of Our Mother of GoodThe city of ShkodraCounsel 35. The city tourItinerary 1Visit the historical museum of the Ramadan Sokoli Mati Juban; Visitcity of Shkodra, the two/three ty- to the Castle of Shkodra "Rozafa"pical houses, the "Rozafa," ca-and lunch in the restaurant of thestle, the "Marubi" photographicfortress. During the afternoon, aarchives, the Bridge of Mesi, theslow view of the citys landscape."Ebu Bekir" Mosque and the Then a visit to the surroundingsChurch of Our Mother of Good of the Lead mosque (built in theCounsel (Zoja and Bekueme).eighteenth century by the Bushati family. A break then dinner in theDuration: 3 days - 2 nightsHamam of the town (restaurantPeriod: All year located in a former eighteenth century Turkish bath -1739).Daily programme: 2nd day: n the morning transfer to1st day: in the morning arrival in the Bridge of Mesi, 6 km from theShkodra, settling into the hotel,city of Shkodra (built in the ei-visit to the Historical Museum ofghteenth century by the BushatiShkodra in the traditional Shko- family who governed the city, thedra houses of Pashko Vasa, ofbridge connects the city of Shko-Shkodra by night37The city of Shkodra 36. Museum of the Castledra with the alpine areas); visit tocity of Shkodra, but for the wholethe medieval castle of Drivatsum -of Albania, the Balkans and theDrishti (Drishti is located 16 km Adriatic area); visit for a coffee atnorth-east of the built-up area ofthe Bar " Museum- Sahati i Ingli-Shkodra. It was assigned the task zit "the English Clock (a buildingof monitoring the road that joins built in 1880 by Lord Padget, anShkodra with Dukagjin. It is builtEnglishman who wanted toon the right bank of Kiri and inspread Protestantism in Albaniathe ninth century it was the cen- and built this building for use as atre of a bishopric under the Ar-church); lunch at the restaurantchbishop of Antivari, it also "Tradita" with typical dishes fromboasted well- developed craftwork Shkodra; in the afternoon a visitproduction and came to have its to the centre of town - street 13own statutes and to mint a coin Dhjetori also called Venetianwith the inscription civita Driva-Street or better known as the Du-sti); lunch in a restaurant neargajt e reja ("street of new shops)the Bridge of Mesi; transfer to that was designed at the begin-Shkodra to visit the "Marubi ning of the twentieth century byphoto library where there is thethe Albanian architect Kole Idro-Marubi Photographic Archive (an meno following Italian style andimmense historical, cultural andwith the aim of replacing the oldscientific heritage, not only for the bazaar on the lake. This street38Shkodra, the Migjeni theatreShkodra, the English TowerThe city of Shkodra 37. starts with the Prefecture Palace a wonderful image of the Virgin(built in 1911 in the Turkish pe- Mary, painted by an author whoriod, following a French project by has remained anonymous. Thisthe engineer Briott) continuing church, before its second buil-with the Municipal Palace, theding in 1993, was blessed by theGrand Cafe, the building of the Holy Father, John Paul II duringItalian -Albanian Bank, the thea- his visit to Shkodra ); transfer totre and the most important places Shiroka (Lake of Shkodra) in theof worship: The Mosque of Par-church of San Rocco whereruca, the great Mosque Ebu -every year the Catholics go on aBekir in the central area of thepilgrimage (August 16) for thecity, the Orthodox Church and the feast day of the saint, an eventCatholic Church of St. Francis notthat people of Shkodra calls thefar from the cathedral and the Ar-"djegaguri" (that is the burningchbishops office of the Northern stone); lunch in a restaurant nearAlbania; Dinner at the hotel. the lake of Shkodra with typical3rd day in the morning visit to dish from Shkodra based onthe Church Our Lady of Good carp; in the afternoon a trip toCounsel (ancient catholic the lake with motorboat "Vene-church, world famous for hostingcia"; dinner at the hotel.Traditional Shkodra house39The city of Shkodra 38. The Church of Our Lady of Good CounselThe image of Our Lady of Good Counsel was revered for a long period inShkodra, where the Christian tradition dates back to the evangelizationof St. Paul and St. Andrew. The presence of Marian images are attestedsince the early decades of the thirteenth century. The story of this Sacredpicture is inextricably linked to the personality of George Castriota Skan-derberg and extraordinary story of resistance against Turkish armies. In1467 was an unusual year for the city of Shkodra and the whole Albania.A Turkish strong army of 200,000 men invaded Albania and came toShkodra. The invasion was again rejected, but the city suffered the Tur-kish incursions.The church where exposed the sacred image of Our Lady was saved. InGenazzano meanwhile, a pious woman widowed, Petrucci de Geneo,made available all her assets to restore the church of the country, now di-lapidated. But her resources were insufficient to conclude the work. Pe-trucci, then revered by local people, was certain of a miracle. Thetradition says that the image of Our Lady of Good Counsel of Shkodra>>>40The city of Shkodra 39. was translated by angels up to the wall of the church under constructionin Genazzano, to be subtracted the destruction of the emperor army on25 April 1467. Sure is the presence in Genazzano in the same period oftwo Skutarian devotees Gjergi and De Sklavis, who provided the transfer.According to a more detailed version, the two soldiers of Skanderberg,convinced that all the hero made in defence of Christianity, was due toOur Lady of Shkodra, went on a pilgrimage in the city. The tradition saysthat the Virgin appeared to the two soldiers in a dream and ordered themto prepare to leave the country as well as herself would have done to pre-vent the Turkish profaned his holy image. Instead, She ordered the twodevotees to follow step by step Her image until the new dwelling. Thuswhile they prayed, the fresco of the Virgin began to detach from the wall,surrounded by a cloud of light, directed towards the sea. For the followingdays the two soldiers followed the image walking on the sea, after beinglost sight near Rome, on April 25 1467, was discovered in Genazzano,the day of the feast of the saint patron, St. Mark. The two settled, then inGenazzano.Initially, the painting was called Our Lady of Paradise, for the sweetnessand the serene beauty of the image. Then Albanian emigrants arrived inthe country after the death of Skanderberg, Our Lady was recognized asOur Lady venerated in Shkodra under the name of Our Lady of GoodCounsel.Celebrations in her honour, are established in accordance with long tra-dition in arbresh centres, Saint George Albanian in Calabria, celebratesa famous festival.In 1895, the third conference of ar-bresh proposed Our Lady of GoodCouncil as a protector of Albania."Return pious mother, returns to Al-bania is still a popular strophe, sung 41in churches. After 1912, the year ofthe independence of the country,The city of Shkodrastarted the restoration work of theChurch of Our Lady in Shkodra. Du-ring the sixties, the original churchhosting the painting was transformedby the officially atheistic regime ofHoxa in a nightclub. In the church ofShkodra there is today a copy of OurLady, the same as venerated in Ge-nazzano and in 1993, John Paul IIproclaimed Her protector of Albania. 40. The MarubiThe art of photography began in Albania last century. In 1858 PjeterMarrubi, a true master in this art, opens the first photographic studio inShkodra, which from the very first steps is a creative workshop of artisticphotography. Marrubi was in fact of Italian nationality, namely was fromPiacenza. His political activity - was Garibaldi supporter of the unificationof Italy - led him, in 1856, in exile in the North city of Albania, where he>>>42The city of ShkodraYoung lady from Shkodra, Pjetr Marrubi 41. developed his work as a pioneer photographer and created the MARUBIstudio. His studio specialized in photo not only for individuals (portraitsof people or family), but Peter in the 70s (in the meantime become Pje-ter) runs services as reporter for the Italian magazine Italian Illustra-tion in the vilajet of Shkodra. His photographs were used as illustrationsin many literary works on Albania, as postcards and other purposes. Thesecond generation of photographers Marubi was represented by the bro-thers Mati and Kel Kodheli. The first, very dear to the maestro as a child,died young, while the youngest, Kel, made the studio the most famousof its kind, especially in the art of the portrait. After the death of the tea-cher, Kel took Marubi as his last name, so today we talk about the Ma-rubi Photo Collection. This was organized by Kel himself. The thirdgeneration is represented by Gege, son of Kel, who in the 20s went toParis where he graduated in the study of the Lumiere Brothers, the firstSchool of Photos and Cinematography in the world. He dealt with thelatest techniques of this art, infrared, solarization and the picture in re-lief. Gege in 1936 won a gold medal in the panair of Bari, and in 1938the same award in Salonicco. In 1970 Gege Marrubi gave his photogra-phic archives to the Albanian State. Today this collection, declared by theUNESCO World Heritage Site, is a very important archive not only for hi-storians, ethnographers, architects, artists, but also for the inhabitants ofShkodra, because it represents a genuine memory of the city, a true vi-sual reference of our history. A visit to the Marubi gallery is a must fortourists, but the current exposure may become a disappointment be-cause the photos displayed, while very interesting, are few and arran-ged in the corridor of entry, but they make you understand the grandeurand historical representative of this unique experience not only in theBalkans. The photos document city life, changes in the Balkan worldagainst modernization, cultural attitudes resulting from the impact andat the same time are evidence of great value of the mountain local so-43ciety, the world of the shepherds used to organize their life in an identi-cal way for millennia. In this, Albania and in particular the North part, isThe city of Shkodraa unique region in Europe. 42. Shkodra, Portal of a house 43. Living in townWhere to stayHOTEL EUROPALocated in the town centre.A majestic hotel, which betrays the owners desireto make it the first hotel of the city. The lobby is verylarge with a coffee bar. The bar service in luxury ho-tels is an important certification of the value and so-cial prestige of the hotel.Hotel Services:ACCOMMODATION:Sheshi 2 Prilli50 rooms, (4 wonderful suites, 20 double rooms,Shkodraand 26 single rooms). They are equipped with mi-nibar, hairdryer, satellite TV, pass, air conditioning, Tel. +355 (0) 2224 1211telephone with direct line, hydromassage. Fax +355 (0) 2224 7470The hotel has a restaurant, located on the first floorinfo@europagrandhotel.comwith open views on the hall. The rooms are furni- www.europagrandhotel.comshed in keeping with the tone of the hotel. Furni-ture, lamps and furnishings with golden, classicaldecorations, large and comfortable double beds. Inthe bathroom taps and sinks according to the fa-shion of recent years. The windows are very largeand bright. In winter, the heating source is the airconditioning that can only be activated with the cardand does not work without the guest. Plentiful bre-akfast.45OTHER SERVICES:Conference room - parking lot - tour arrangementThe city of Shkodramulti-lingual staff - security - reliable safe systemtaxi - internet point - currency exchangebabysitting - air conditioning - rented cars. 44. ARGENTI HOTELThe hotel is located at the entrance to the city ofShkodra.Hotel Services:ACCOMMODATION:34 rooms, 58 beds 10 Single rooms with a bed, 19single rooms, 5 double roomsPrice per room 1500 - 3000 leke. Rr. Alqi KondiThe restaurant can seat 60. It is in a classic style, Shkodrausing wood and colours. The kitchen offers tradi-tional and international specialties. The cellar is well Tel./Fax +355 (0) 22 4 39 09stocked, with all kinds of beverage. Mob. +355 69 20 52 065The bar has a total capacity of 60 seats. The area in- +355 68 22 22 065side is very cosy, comfortable and offers a maximumtranquillity, while the surroundings outside are lushwww.kompleksi-argenti.comand green making a very nice place to spend a fewinfo@kompleksi-argenti.comhappy moments.OTHER SERVICES:Meeting room which seats 60 - Gym - SaunaGames room for children - Taxi - 20 parking placesKOMPLEKSI LUANI AThe hotel is located at the entrance to the city ofShkodra, 1 km from the city centre, in Bahcallek.Hotel Services:ACCOMMODATION:465 single rooms, 3 double roomsPrice per room 50 euros, breakfast included.The city of ShkodraRestaurant - pizzeria, 80 seats. Traditional Albanian Bahallkand Italian cooking. ShkodraBar - patisserie,100 seats Tel. +355 (0) 22 24 03 32OTHER SERVICES:+355 (0) 266 20 365Internet - Games room for children +355 (0) 266 20 366Taxi - 80 parking places Mob. +355 69 20 24 947 +355 68 20 24 947 45. COLOSSEO HOTELThe hotel is located in the city centre. As you cansee from its name, it is built in the style of the won-derful works of ancient architecture.Hotel Services:ACCOMMODATION:14 rooms, 28 beds - 7 single rooms, 5 doublerooms, 2 suites. All rooms are furnished elegantlyKol Idromenoand offer: Air Conditioning, Private bathroom/ sho-Shkodrawer, satellite TV, direct telephone, central heating,minibar, air conditioning.Tel. +355 (0) 22 24 75 13Price per room 50 - 90 euros, breakfast included. Fax +355 (0) 22 24 75 14Cel. +355 68 20 60 130Restaurant with 16 places. Traditional Albanian andItalian cooking. Selected Italian wines.info@colosseohotel.comBar with contemporary comforts. Veranda with awww.colosseohotel.comtotal capacity of 170 places that offer an opportunityto watch the typical tour of the city centre.OTHER SERVICES:Meeting room with capacity 50 - 60 seatsTaxi - ParkingMETEORThe hotel is located in the northern part of the cityof Shkodra, 5 km from the centre and 30 km fromthe border with Montenegro. Built in the verdantcountryside, the hotel ensures a pleasant and pea-ceful stay. 47Hotel Services:The city of ShkodraACCOMMODATION:14 rooms, 28 beds - 10 single rooms, 4 doublerooms The rooms offer all the comforts of a 4 starShtoji i rihotel: Air Conditioning, Private bathroom/ shower,Shkodrasatellite TV, desk.Price 40 Euros per room, breakfast included.Tel. +355 (0) 262 20 40+355 (0) 262 20 241Restaurant with a capacity of 80 places. It offers tra-ditional special dishes, international and Albaniansthat are accompanied by the best Italian, Frenchand Montenegrin wines. Bar, garden with a capa-city of 160 seats.OTHER SERVICES:Meeting room with capacity of 45 seats - InternetTaxi - 60 parking places 46. KADUKU HOTELThe hotel is located in the centre of the city of Shko-dra. From the hotel there is a wide view across the5 Heronjte square, the magnificent Migjenitheatre built in the early 20s style, and the green ofthe Rozafa park. The location of the hotel createsthe possibility to reach all the attractions of the cityeasily on foot and to tour the centre of the city.The hotel staff can communicate in different lan-guages. Sheshi "5 Heronjte" ShkodraHotel Services:Tel. +355 (0) 22 24 22 16ACCOMMODATION: Mob.+355 69 25 51 2308 rooms, 12 beds - 1 single rooms, 3 double rooms, +355 68 26 70 7604 rooms with two beds.The rooms are furnished in a simple way, offeringbasic comfort, private services / shower, satellite TV,heating, fan. Price per room 20 - 50 euros, break-fast included.OTHER SERVICES:Meeting room, capacity: 45 seatsTaxi - 6 parking places48Where to eatThe city of ShkodraRESTAURANT TRADITA GEGE AND TOSKEAt the entrance you are greeted by a small museumof objects of material culture from Shkodra, mainlyagricultural and pastoral.Inside: a large room on two floors, a huge fireplacewhere there is a permanent burning fire to cook flatbread and roasted meats.The Menu: The cuisine is traditional Northern Al-Rr. Skenderberg, 4banian. You can taste specialties like Fergez (inte- Shkodrastines of lamb in hot sauce with melted cheese andminced meat), cacciamak (flat bread made of po-Tel. +355 (0) 22 240537lenta). Beef and lamb meats. Starters of locally pro-Cel.: +355 68 20 86056duced pickled vegetables. tradita_gt@yahoo.com. 47. BAR RESTAURANT IDROMENOYou enter into a very large caf and in the secondroom there is the restaurant. Very large chairs,round tables, elegant cutlery and plates. Order asoup and you will get an unusual shaped plate. Thestaff are friendly and helpful.The Menu: la carte: fish, meat, vegetables andpizzas. The Italian influence pervades the choices inall courses. The fish on offer is mainly based on po-pular products such as shrimp, squid, gilthead Rr. Jorgji Karamitribream and bass. A curiosity: cod costs 500 lek per (Prefecture courtyard) Shkodra100 grams, lobster cost 400. A redemption that the"Merluccius" of the Adriatic does not know else- Tel. +355 (0) 22 250263where. The typical Albanian soups: soup of egg andlemon, fish and spinach. Meat dishes: traditionalwww.idromeno.comroasts, steaks, kebabs with some Balkan variations.info@idromeno.comWine by the jug is unexceptional but pleasant, itcomes from Montenegro, as most of the bottles of-fered. The price is around 2,000 lek for a completeItalian meal.PIAZZA PARKThe site has a wide boulevard entrance. Many ta-bles, a warm atmosphere inside.Pizzeria and restaurant with a wide choice of Italianmain courses and pizza, Albanian salads and qua-lity cheese. Vranac wine from Montenegrin grapes 49but grown in the hills of Shkodra. The city of Shkodra Rr. 28 Nentori Shkodra Tel. +355 (0) 22 249090MUZEULocated in the city centre, it has two environments, Sheshi 5 Heronjte Shkodrathe internal and external: the external one is prefe-rable for the greenery that surrounds it and the view. Tel. +355 69 226 42 49The menu of the restaurant is quite modest: pizzas,some Albanian and Italian specialties. 48. RESTAURANT BAR VILLA BEKTESHI (OJA)Next to the Orthodox Cathedral. The building id inthe style of the early years of the twentieth century.The interior: a large caf with a long counter, tablesand private rooms for the guests. In summer thereis a garden with tables. The restaurant is upstairs.Large windows make it brightly lit. Here too in sum-mer the tables are placed on the terrace. Polite andefficient staff. Rr. Vaso Kadia ShkodraMenu: la carte, extensive but sober, with fish andmeat. Albanian classic soups: lemon and egg, fish, Tel. +355 (0) 22 240799spinach. Large selection of Italian first courses. The Mob. +355 69 2867445rigatoni have a special section with five dishesproposed. Common fish such as bass, giltheadbream, crayfish, but also cod and mullet. Meat,especially beef: fillet, if local, with tomato sauce, spi-nach and more. The cheeses are of good quality.Wine (unbottled) comes from restaurant owners vi-neyards. The grapes come from Montenegro, butare grown in the area of Shkodra. The red comesfrom Vranasht grapes. The 2007 vintage has a pur-plish red colour, not very transparent, intense aromawith hints of ripe fruit, especially cherry, plum andberries. The raki comes from the same vineyardstoo.VIVALDI50It is located in a street next to the Cathedral, on theRr. Justin Godard, 18 Shkodraground floor of a typical building of the area. Furni-shed in a simple, rustic style. Italian cooking, liveThe city of Shkodra Tel. +355 (0) 22 242052music during the weekends, and the earnings go topeople in difficulty, who receive lunch at the samerestaurant during the week. 49. PALMALocated near the University of Shkodra, it is there-fore very popular among young people. It is a twofloors building with a large veranda.The kitchen offers some Albanian, Italian and Mon-tenegrin specialties. Kol Idromeno Shkodra Tel. +355 (0) 22 240864CHIKAGOThe place has a great entrance. Many tables, warmatmosphere inside.Pizzeria and restaurant. Wide range of Italian firstdishes and pizzas. Albanian salads and qualitycheeses. Vranac wine. Montenegrin wine, but cul-tivated on the hills of Shkodra. Rr. Ndre Mjeda ShkodraCENTROLocated on the third floor of a shopping mall in the Rr. Ndre Mjeda Qender Tregtarecentre of the city. Furnished in a modern style. Most Shkodraof the hall is used for the bar, while in a corner youcan enjoy mainly Italian specialties that are offered51 Tel. +355 68 238 89 72by the kitchen of this restaurant. An area of the roomdisplays wine bottles, all Italian. The city of ShkodraCOUNTRY CLUBLocated in one of the oldest streets of the city cha-racterized by a Venetian architecture, take time tonote the windows with gates. Kol Idromeno Shkodra Tel. +355 68 219 78 81 50. Lake ShkodraLEGENDAIt is located on the Shkodra - Tirane national hi-ghway, next to the Rozafa fortress and the riverBuna. After crossing a beautiful garden, this is therestaurant. A traditional building. Inside, on thewalls, the legend of the fortress of Rozafa is pain-ted. Furnished in a simple and rustic style. Duringthe winter you can enjoy the specialities near thefire place. Traditional Albanian and Italian cooking.Quality wines, mostly Italian. Shkodra Tel. +355 (0) 22 248936SHQIPONJALocated at the entrance to the city next to the Ro-zafa fortress on the banks of the river Drin. The in-terior and exterior have an extension of 3000 m2.The external environment is constructed in the spe-cial style of the gardens from Shkodra. For childrenthere is a playground and a mini zoo.the plentiful menu offers traditional Scutarian, Al-banian and some Italian specialties. Rr. e QafesWith a capacity of 250 seats, the restaurant is also Shkodrasuitable for ceremonies. Tel. +355 (0) 22 24 1625 Mob. +355 69 2094643 +355 68 2162507 info@shquiponja.net www.shquiponja.net52Caf and pubsThe city of ShkodraWINE BAR TORONTOIt offers local wines, white and red with a dish of sli-ced salami or cheese. Bottled or unbottled Winefrom Rozafa Company. 51. Itineraries in the regionThe Shkodra Lakemense sheet of water is 368Km2, of which 149 are in Alba-We do not often think of how fa-nian territory and the rest be-mous this lake is in the Balkanslongs to Montenegro. Theand beyond. It is the most exten- average depth of the lake is 10sive in the region. It is next to the meters. From the lake the Bunasea, almost laps onto it. It marksRiver originates, which flows intothe border between two countriesthe sea north of Velipoja.that are ancient in terms of civili-The landscape is characterizedzation and recent for their politi- by high coasts with steep hillscal establishment. Next to thebehind. There are many potentialhigh mountains that go from paths and walks.North to South, without nei-ghbouring chains that go fromWest to East, as in much of Eu- Shiroke and Zogajrope. Lake Shkodra is very distin-ctive. The colour of its surfaceShiroka enjoys good climaticdiffers, in the part near the Alba- conditions and is a popular placenian coast it is almost leaden, but for holidays. Fresh air is very he-not gloomy, indeed that melan-althy especially in the mountainscholy of the banks which many area of Tarabosh.authors attribute to the lakesfrom Lombardy and Switzerland Zogaj is located after Shiroka andhas no place here. Sometimes it is known for its rich flora andseems like a lagoon and the la- fauna, the wonderful landscape,goon suggests that it is time towhich offers a real attraction forobserve the colour of pomegra-foreigners and other visitors. Thenates of the steep areas on the 53water.ZogajItineraries in the regionWhen you leave the city and takethe road to go to the lake, thebridge over the river Buna has asign with distances of Shkodrafrom the main cities of Albaniaand the Balkans. We realize thateven Dubrovnik is just a tripaway, Montenegro is all within lit-tle more than a hundred km ofcoastline. The lake, which al-ready runs along part of the cityin the north- west can be travel-led with a spectacular lakesideroad. The surface of this im- 52. Shiroka: St. Rocco Church 53. employment activities of this area and animals that live in harmony.are fisheries, agriculture, oil ex-There are several types of plantstraction and handicraft produc-such as the bush that is knowntion(rugs, handbags, for the curative properties andembroidery). In this area therethis area is full of sage, which co-are about 70 women who workvers most of the mountain. Thereand produce rugs with traditionalare many species of birds anddecorations and thus make theanimals. As in many other areasproduction of souvenirs more in- in the world where there is opendividual.water, gulls dominate visual fieldIts geographical position, nearof tourists eyes with their flight.the mountain of Tarabosh and There are different types of trees:the Lake of Shkodra, makes thisolives, chestnuts, figs and vines.area very interesting. In this tou-The houses are very characteri-rist area there are different typesstic, built in stone and are equip-of plants, as well as birds, fishped with deep wells of water.Where to eatMARKUOne of the most beautiful restaurants in the Shirokaarea. It is easy to reach, after the Buna bridge, onthe hill, near the Lake of Shkodra. From there youcan enjoy a wonderful view of the lake. Anyone whohas not had a chance to visit the fortress of Rozafa,may find a miniature of the fortress in the garden ofthe restaurant, where, there are also tables under55the trees. The interior of the restaurant has beenRruga Shkodr - ShirokItineraries in the regionbuilt in recent years.The menu is plentiful. You can find fresh fish from Tel. +335 (0) 22 241771the lake and taste typical fish dishes. They also offera wide variety of meats.PANORAMAIf you make a trip along the Lake of Shkodra, be- Rr. Zogajfore reaching Zogaj you have to stop at the Pano-Tel. +355 68 2941050rama restaurant. From the terrace you will have apleasant view of the lake.The restaurant specializes in fish, typical Skutariandishes carefully prepared by the chef of the kitchen.The fish you can even choose yourself from a smallpool that is located next to the restaurant. 54. Shiroka, lake shoreREALThe restaurant Real also known as da Hilma(the name of the owner who is also the chef of therestaurant) is located on the shores of the lake. Inaddition to the specialties of fish and meat preparedby the chef you can spend pleasant moments in theveranda of the restaurant with a view of the lake.Rr. ZogajTel. +355 68 2254496TAVERNA SHKODRANEA very nice restaurant on the banks of Lake Shko-dra. Inside it is decorated in a simple way, the ta-blecloths and napkins are traditionally hand made,as happened many years ago. The veranda has abeautiful view over the lake.The cuisine is traditional and local with fish from thelake and some meat courses. All fresh producefrom the area.Rruga Shkodr-Zogaj km 5Wines from the area of Shkodra and some bottles Tel. +355 682941050from neighbouring countries.taverna@shkrodra.info2 LUMENJThere the river Buna joins with the river Drin there isthe restaurant 2 Lumenjte. On the ground floor of athree-floor building, there is a restaurant with a wideveranda.56Albanian traditional cuisine, fish dishes and meat.The other two floors are the hotel. There are 4 dou-ble rooms. Services: private bathroom/shower, TV,Itineraries in the regionair conditioning. Rruga ShkodraMuriqan, 500 m nga urae BunesTel. +355 682209802MONTELocated on the banks of the river Buna is the rightplace for anyone who wants to spend pleasant mo-ments in the fresh air and beauty of the view thatyou can see from tables placed near the shore.Albanian and international traditional cuisine.Rruga ShkodraMuriqan 55. Other itinerariesMuriqan - Shkodramountain is cultivated with olive trees. As you approach the town,Muriqan is a border area the view becomes morebetween Montenegro and attractive, the scenery is beautifulShkodra. The distance betweenwith the lake and the Buna RiverMuriqan and the city of Shkodraon one side and on the other theis about 15 km. The main splendid Rozafa Castle.income of this population comesIn order to cross the border offrom working the land, Albania, you will have to pay 1agriculture and sheep farming. Euro per day. Group tours are notSome families of this area carry charged while European touristsout various trading activities.are charged 10 Euros if theyThe road is surrounded by fields want to spend a few days in ourwhere they grow legumes andcity. The Shkodra Muriqan roadwheat, while the other part of the is paved and in good condition.Where to eatELIKUIt is located on the Shkodra - Muriqan road, nearRruga Shkodra Muriqanthe border of Montenegro, where it is appropriateto pass the border. Immersed in greenery, it is the Tel. +355 (0) 26290003ideal place to taste the Albanian and Italian cuisineMob. +355 69 2095872offered by this restaurant.+355 692545355With a capacity of 270 seats, it is very suitable forceremonies.57BUNA PARKOther itinerariesLocated on the banks of the Buna River, it offers awonderful view of the river and also of the RozafaFortress. A two-story restaurant furnished in modernstyle. The fresh air, the beauty of the greenery andthe river, and the peacefulness of this place, allowsyou to spend unforgettable moments.The menu is rich, traditional specialties, hors doeu-vre, first and second courses, different types ofRruga Shkodrapizza. MuriqanThere is a small playground to entertain children. Tel. +355 69 2091726 +355 69 3811688 info@buna-park.com www.buna-park.com 56. Shkodra - Koplik As in areas near a lake, fish is the most common foodShtojShtoj is an important center. TheEthnographic values of the areavillage is located about 5 KmThere are different types ofnorth east of Shkodra betweenethnography. In relation to clo-the Mesi Bridge and the villages thing for men and women, wool-of Boks and Drag. There are ar-len kilts are characteristic of thechaeological finds dating back to Malesi and Madhe areas of Du-the Bronze Age and the first Iron kagjin; and other such costumesAge. Due to its good geographical typical of the Shkodra area repre-position, families in Shtoj were sent an important variety ofgiven the opportunity to develop ethnography.agricultural tourism for the pro-duction of traditional beveragessuch as grappa and wine. Archaeological valuesTourists interested in fauna and In the village of Kalldrun, nearflora can admire the flora of theKoplik, in the itinerary called Vialakes shores. de senta, you can see the findsOnce you pass Shtoj, you arrive at of the many explorations conduc-Vraka which offers two possibleted over the years.destinations:Similarly, on the other side of Ko- A visit to the Slav Orthodox plik-Theth-Koplik i Siperm, there Church; is the Marshej Castle, where you The road leading to Lake Shko- can admire the massive prehisto- dra.ric excavations.The population is a mix of Alba- Passing Koplik through secondarynian and Albanian-Montenegrin. roads, you can visit some villagesThey speak both Serbian andsuch as Kullaj located on the sho-58Croatian.res of the lake.Lake JezercOther itineraries 57. Razma, landscape RazmaVrith - Razmawhile on the right you see mas- sive mountains. Going along theBy leaving the city Northeast andtrail, the road is well paved andcrossing typical areas, you cancomfortable, there is the villagefind out a little more about the of Vrith announced by some pighabits, usages and customs ofscratching about the road. Ruralthe local inhabitants. The cour- and agricultural views. There aretyard and alley life, which some some bar cafs at the limits oftime ago fascinated the visitors tothe houses. We climb again. TheEuropean cities such as Naples vegetation on the sides of thewith its Spanish Quarters, Berlin trails are made up of mountainwith Alexander Platz, Rome with pines. Finally we arrive at Rasma,Testaccio, Milan with its Navigli, an historical place for mountainParis with its Latin Quarters. The tourism.road then turns towards Monte- The landscape is very broad as itnegro. From the ground level dominates up the valleys andrises small stone hills with vege- presents traditional mountaintation reduced to small shrubs paths for relaxation and medita-and rocky ridges. The landscapeincludes a series of valleys and tion holidays. The small Austrianhills. When you leave the road tostyle villas and residences arethe border, you then arrive in the evidence of historical tourism.territory of the municipality of Ko- During the socialist regime, theplik. You continue uphill along abuildings were used for organi-moderately steep and long road,zed holidays for workers and chil-which is ideal for mountain bi-dren. Today there is a hotelking. We arrive by foot at the restaurant called Tigri offeringpath that climbs up the moun-meat dishes. In addition, eventain. Here, again in Koplik, there the wine is from the area. They 59is a small bridge over a narrowuse Sangiovese grapes. The wel-canyon from which you can scan come at the hotel presents a Other itinerariesthe dried out riverbed. In fact, standard Albanian level post -the bridge is called the Dry River Socialist. The structure is not bigBridge. However, the most impor- and managed as a family busi-tant aspect is the landscape.ness. A spartan dcor and aThere is a dominance of beechsmall bathroom, but with all thetrees that is characteristic to thenecessary services. The price iscanyons of the village of Vrithmore than reasonable. 58. Koplik,industrial district with quality landscape?The Association of Italian Entrepreneurs Operating in Albania is pro-moting a project to acquire, alone or with the Albanian government join-tly, an area of 70 hectares in Koplik, where to create a real industrialarea dedicated to entrepreneurs operating in Albania. An industrial areawith dedicated spaces: economic activities, offices and services (suchprofessional offices, banks, insurance companies, agencies, customsetc..; health services (first-aid station, emergency, labour medicine);areas for educational training, as well as areas of socialization, greenand refreshment areas. The project - idea stems from the belief thatAlbania, may be in the next future Head of a bridge between the Bal-kan area and Italy in particular the Apulia Region.For this initiative, the Industrial Development Consortium of Bari and ateam of engineers are involved, in order to arrange a master plan on anarea of approximately 64 hectares, of the municipality of Koplik, to de-fine the objectives, tools and procedures for the construction of some in-dustrial buildings, and for other productive activities.Country in rapid evolution, with a very active economy and interestingmarkets to invest.The local communities, particularly that of Koplik, have the priority to re-organize the territory, in order to promote the attraction of the market for >>>Shkodra, the lake60Other itineraries 59. foreign investors.Thanks to its geographical position, Koplik is the perfect place to locateproductive processes, as base or bridge for the whole Balkan area, fromMontenegro to Macedonia, from Serbia to Kosovo. The huge daily con-nections, both by sea and by air with Italy, may ensure a rapid and con-tinuous flow of goods and people.To emphasize the commitment of the Italian Government and of the in-ternational community for further action to improve local transport system.In the region of Shkodra, there are important wide mineral resources, ofbig quality but under-exploited. A huge deposit of clay, eight kilometersfrom the city, had launched an important public manufacturing of ear-thenware, later abandoned. Mines for extraction of copper and its enri-chment plants, created during the past regime, are now blocked waitingprivatization. Lime and kaolin deposits, with a large vein of marble, just di-scovered, complete the picture of geological resources. The agriculturalsector, to develop, has a considerable potential, due to the favourable cli-mate and large unused areas with interesting possibilities for integrationwith the food packaging and processing industry. The several and purewater sources of the mountainous areas are still largely unused.The Region of Shkodra-Koplik for years has been the handicraft industryin Albania and a major trading centre of handicraft products of the wholeBalkan area. Specialized labourers are the base for any production, re-quiring a minimum professional training, especially for high technology.The average wage in Koplik (Malaysia and Madhe) is very low, among thelowest in Albania and in Europe.In Shkodra there is the only university in the northern Albania with about6000 students, with more than 500 graduates per year. The element thatshould not be underestimated is the knowledge of Italian language by theyouth population and, further opportunities for foreign investors, who mayrely on potential business managers partially trained and highly motivated61to remain in their territory.In Shkodra currently operate seven commercial banks: Intesa San PaoloOther itinerariesBank Albania, Raiffeisen Bank, ProCredit Bank, National CommercialBank, United Bank of Albania, Tirana Bank and Development ItalianBank.In addition to the World Bank, other international financial institutions offera range of services such as the IFC (a member of the World Bank) EBRD,etc.. 60. ThethTheth Razma and Hani i Hoti is a for-ced road. The road ventures upTo say Teth to anyone in Albaniato the villages of Dedaj, after 21not only evokes a place, but akm - Dukai and finally Bogesuggestion and a never trivialwhere you will find public tran-note: the Albanian Alps. By far sportation and paved roads. Tothe landscape more than any get to Teth, there is another 25other identifies the image of Al- Km. Walking can have some diffi-bania mountainous, rough, isola-culties: lack of water along theted and at the same timeroute, very close roads, manyauthentic with its legacy of tradi- curves and in the summer a lottional cultures and wildlife. Edith of traffic.Durham during her journey inIn several villages, but especially1908 to Teth writes I think that in Theth, Boge and Vermoshno place inhabited by human there is a potential developmentbeings, has given me such anof farm holidays. These areas notimpression of majestic isolationonly have the ability to produce,from the world. It is a place process and sell the products ofwhere centuries dry up, the river agriculture and sheep farming,is perhaps the source of thebut also provide income andworld, its shores the home of jobs. Fresh products from agri-basic passions both fast and hea- culture and sheep farming andted. In short, even on our daysthe service offered in the resi-less heroic than those of Dur-dents homes may well meet the62ham, travelling by car instead of demands of tourists. This is thehorseback, the Albanian Alps areessence of the farm holidayone of the most authentic shows model that we propose. The pos-Other itinerariesthat one can imagine in both asibilities offered by the northernradically intimate and majestic part of our country are the beau-sense. Today these places are tiful nature of the damned Alpspart of a national park and the (Bjeshket and Nemuna), whichideas are more reasoned and are a great attraction for the de-oriented towards knowledge, al- velopment of the farm holiday inthough, the emotions remain in- these areas, as well as to give atact. To visit the Albanian Alpspossibility and a great economicyou can come Northeast from resource for the development ofShkodra. Koplik, as a way torural population. 61. Theth - ShkodraItinerary: the villages of of Marshel Gradec and Pjeter Shan you can enjoy the beautifulBoge, Thethvalleys along the way, opposite toand Vermoshthe Lake Shkodra. You proceed arriving on the national road, di-Duration: six days rection Bajze, and to get then toPeriod: summer Dardha around at 1.30 a.m. (aAreas of interest: nature, an- restaurant with excellent servicethropology, sociology. and Italian cuisine); lunch until 4.00 p.m. and you proceed to-Programme per days:wards the village of Shegan and1st day: Razma following a not paved road, youThe village of Razma is locatedreach the eye of Shegan (Syri iabout 41 km northward from Sheganit) and Hurdhanat andShkodra. It is a perfect place for Sheganit at 4.30 p.m. After a restmountain climbing and winter you can visit the place till 6.30sports, especially skiing. The sur-p.m. Departure for Shkodra androunded villages, Vermosh, Bogaarrival at 5.30, dinner at theand Vukli are unique for their na- hotel.tural beauty. The village offers thepossibility of accommodation for 3rd day and 4th day: Thethivisitors.(National Park of Theth)Departure from Shkodra to 9.00 Located on the Albanian Alps,a.m; stop at the village of Dedaj to near the Bjeshket and Ne-admire the beauty of the deepmuna, 70 km from Shkodra,valley of Perroi Thate (Dry River);has an area of about 2630 hecta-arrival in Razem at 11.15