Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Sports Blendi Gonxhja announced that an Albanian-German-Romanian archaeological mission—in collaboration with the Institute of Archaeology in Tirana and the Winckelmann Institute at Humboldt University of Berlin—is continuing its investigations in this archaeological site.

According to Gonxhja, the excavations have made it possible to determine the complete ground plan of the temple, while the discovery of spolia in the foundation provides evidence of a structure dating back to before the 4th century BC.

Furthermore, architectural fragments and marble roof tiles uncovered during the research attest to the significance and unique character of this Doric-style monument, which once stood above the river port of the ancient city of Apollonia. These findings represent a significant contribution to expanding knowledge regarding the urban development, architecture and history of Apollonia—one of the most important centers of ancient civilization within Albanian territory.

Gonxhja stated that the research results facilitate a more comprehensive understanding and documentation of this archaeological heritage, while also helping to convey its history to both domestic and international visitors.

Archaeological excavations and discoveries made a few years ago provide authentic evidence of an ancient temple—dating back approximately 2,500 years—whose foundation remains entirely intact; initial estimates suggest it covers an area of ​​about 1,000 square meters. It served as a site for religious observances, ranking among the most significant temples in the region.

Regarding the column that gave its name to the village of Shtyllas in Fier, it is estimated that the associated structure covers an area of ​​approximately 1,000 square meters. It served as a site for religious observances for the ancient city of Apollonia, standing as one of the most important temples in the region—a status further underscored by its proximity to the city’s river port. /k.s/j.p/p.s./

On social media, Gonxhja shared images of the damage, showing shattered glass, destroyed doors and facades scorched by flames.

“As the minister responsible for Culture, I condemn this senseless violence without reservation,” stated Gonxhja.

He stressed that while protests are a democratic right, this right should not be accompanied by acts of violence and destruction.

Gonxhja underscored that public buildings are spaces where services are provided to citizens, while cultural monuments represent historical values ​​that must be preserved for future generations.

“Cultural heritage is an asset belonging to all Albanians—today and in the future. No objective justifies damaging it,” concluded Gonxhja. /e.i/a.f/p.s./

In a social media post, Minister Blendi Gonxhja urged the Albanian public to support the country’s representative in the international competition, emphasizing the power of voting and sharing the song to back Eslin during this major artistic milestone.

The 24th edition of the Junior Eurovision Song Contest will take place at the Malta Fairs and Conventions Centre in Ta’ Qali, broadcasting live at 21:00 CET, according to official organizers. The competition features young artists aged 9 to 14 from 16 participating countries. Representing Albania is 12-year-old Eslin Kurti, who earned her spot following her victory at the 64th National Children’s Song Festival. She will perform the song “Dance with Me”, composed by Enis Mullaj with lyrics by Eriona Rushiti. /j.p/p.s./

“With tourism revenue more than doubling over the past three years and off-season stays surging by 78%, our goal is to leverage this momentum to drive investments, elevate service quality, and create jobs for coastal communities,” stated Minister Gonxhja.

According to the minister, an increase in the number of yachts docking in Albania—utilizing local supply and maintenance services—will generate greater revenue for local businesses and provide opportunities for Albanian families throughout the year.

The Balkans Sea Fair spanned three days, bringing together yachting, adventure, business and entertainment along the Vlora coastline. The event aimed to foster opportunities for exchange and collaboration within the maritime tourism sector, while highlighting the potential offered by the Albanian coast beyond the traditional summer months. /j.p/p.s./

In a statement on social media, Gonxhja remarked that public institutions belong to the citizens and that attacks against them undermine public order and the public interest.

“No barricade can halt Albania’s European path! The right to protest is inviolable, but it gives no one the right to use violence, commit arson or engage in destruction,” the minister wrote.

“The agenda of destabilization serves only anti-Albanian interests at this critical historical juncture for our democratic, national, and integration progress,” emphasized Gonxhja.

“Student organizations, student councils, and academic senates must urgently distance themselves from these acts and commit to maintaining the peaceful nature of the protest. Silence in the face of violence leaves the door open for the ghosts of the past and the enemies of a European Albania,” the minister added.

The minister paid special attention to the protection of cultural sites, monuments, and museums, calling upon organizers and participants to avoid any action that might endanger these assets.

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Gonxhja hosted FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis, FIBA Europe Board member Michal Konecny and Albanian Basketball Federation President Avni Ponari.

Discussions focused on strengthening support for the Albanian Basketball Federation and investing in sports infrastructure, particularly the development of dedicated facilities for basketball.

Particular attention was given to sponsorship legislation as a means of encouraging greater private-sector involvement and expanding funding sources for clubs and athletes.

The participants also discussed strengthening cooperation with FIBA to further develop basketball in Albania and improve the sport’s competitiveness on the international stage.

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This award was granted by the Golden Lion of Venice Committee and presented to him today.

“I am deeply honored to receive the ‘Golden Lion for Merit’ award today at the Senate of the Italian Republic, presented by the Golden Lion of Venice Committee in recognition of a lifetime of contribution. This honor encapsulates a journey of dedication—spanning from the Student Movement of December 1990 to a career in public service. I share this recognition with deep gratitude with my family, colleagues, and team, as well as with the artists, culture and tourism professionals, athletes, and champions who represent Albania with dignity across the globe,” stated Minister Gonxhja.

He further highlighted the centuries-old ties between Albania and Italy, which endure through the Arbëresh community and the compatriots who have built their lives in the neighboring country. The minister emphasized the importance of new collaborations between institutions and artists, as well as support for young talent, as concrete steps to further strengthen the ties between the two countries.

The minister stated that this award recognizes the dedication of artists and professionals in culture and tourism. He added that the honor serves as a mandate to further advance key projects across the ministry’s sectors.

Attending the event, there were distinguished figures from diplomacy, public institutions, medicine, academia, the judiciary, the arts, and culture, as well as representatives from other professional fields.

Among the attendees was Albania’s Ambassador to Italy Anila Bitri Lani. /p.s./

In a social media post, Gonxhja stated that the meeting marks a concrete step in implementing the memorandum of understanding on cooperation with MAXXI, which was signed in Rome during the intergovernmental meeting between Albania and Italy.

The discussion covered cooperation in the fields of archives and digitization, the organization of joint exhibitions, exchange programs, audiovisual co-productions and the strengthening of museum networks.

According to Gonxhja, the goal is to create more opportunities for cultural professionals, facilitate the exchange of experiences, and increase public access to the art and cultural heritage of both countries.

“Albania and Italy share a long-standing friendship, enriched through mutual understanding and creativity,” emphasized Gonxhja, highlighting the importance of concrete projects and closer ties between people and cultural institutions.

Collaborating with Italian cultural institutions aims to foster artistic exchange and unlock new opportunities for joint projects between Albania and Italy.

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Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport Blendi Gonxhja shared highlights from the performance, describing it as an artistic experience that presents two distinct dimensions of Ravel’s music: ranging from an intimate, reflective atmosphere to the powerful energy of “Boléro.”

While ‘The Unseen’ offers an introspective journey through solitude and deep emotion, ‘Boléro’ builds a rhythmic energy that builds toward a powerful stage finale.

Through choreography, the two works establish a dialogue between music and movement, bringing a contemporary repertoire inspired by one of the 20th century’s most significant composers to the Albanian stage.

The performance will be on Friday, October 9, at 8:00 PM at the National Theatre of Opera and Ballet, as part of the program for the fifth edition of the IDFT. The event joins the Opera and Ballet artistic calendar and aims to offer the audience an evening where music, choreography and stage performance blend into a unique artistic experience. /p.s./

For the first time, a joint program unites British and Ukrainian cultures, sending a powerful message of cooperation and solidarity through the arts.

British-Ukrainian Cultural Week brings art, music and creativity to Tirana, building new bridges of cooperation.

The International Cultural Weeks have become a significant platform for cultural exchange in Tirana, acquainting the Albanian public to traditions, artists, ideas and stories from various countries around the world. Through these events, culture becomes a shared language that brings societies closer together and enhance mutual understanding.

“We invite you to be part of a rich program that unites traditions, experiences and people, demonstrating that even in challenging times, culture has the power to bring us together,” Minister Gonxhja wrote on social media. /r.e/a.f/p.s./