TIRANA, June 1 /ATA/ – Ancient archaeological site of Amantia hosted its annual “Amantia Fest” this weekend, bringing together local residents, visitors and performers to promote the cultural, historical and tourism potential of the southern Albania region of Selenicë.
The festival, organised by the Municipality of Selenicë, featured traditional polyphonic music, folk games, local cuisine and sporting activities at the more than 2,000-year-old archaeological park.
Selenicë Mayor Nertil Bellaj said on Monday the event had become an annual tradition, held on the last weekend of May to celebrate one of Albania’s most important archaeological sites.
“Amantia is a valuable historical and cultural asset that represents not only Selenicë but Albania as a whole because of its rich history and exceptional heritage,” Bellaj said.
He said continued promotion of the site could help boost cultural tourism as Amantia attracts growing numbers of foreign visitors.
Speaking at the event, State Minister for Parliamentary Relations Eriona Ismaili said cultural activities played an important role in promoting areas with historical and archaeological significance while helping preserve national traditions and identity.
She added that government policies supporting local communities, tourism businesses, guesthouses and agritourism ventures were helping attract more visitors and contribute to regional development.
Amantia, located in southwestern Albania, was one of the principal settlements of the ancient Illyrians and is regarded as one of the country’s most significant archaeological sites.
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