Designed by journalist Marin Mema and crafted by sculptor Julian Muçollari, this 9-meter-tall monument was realized through the joint efforts of historian Paulin Zefi, regional Albanian actors, and the Lezha Municipal Council.

Attending the inauguration ceremony was Mayor of Lezha Pjerin Ndreu, Mayor of Shkodra Benet Beci, historian Paulin Zefi, journalist Marin Mema; as well as other historians, researchers and numerous citizens.

Lezha Mayor Ndreu stated, ” Overlooking the Adriatic Sea, Queen Teuta returns as a timeless monument to our history, identity, and pride. Today, Lezha offers yet another profound reason to be explored.”

“This monument is a new tourism asset that blends natural beauty with historical grandeur,” Ndreu said. On his part, Mayor Beci stated that, “This is a shared corridor where Shkodra, Ulcinj, Lezha, Durrës and the entire coast now form not only a route of pride, history and past conflicts, but also a beautiful corridor for tourism, cooperation and development.”

Historian Paulin Zefi emphasized: “We hope this initiative of ours serves as an example for other cities to erect monuments to other significant figures of antiquity—specifically Illyrian kings and queens—in other cities across Albania.”

Meanwhile, journalist Marin Mema remarked: “I sincerely hope this is just the first step in a series of monuments that must—and I repeat, *must*—be built to commemorate our heritage, culture and national identity.”

“Through them, we preserve and pass on our history and national values ​​to future generations,” Mema said.

The figure of Queen Teuta—one of the most renowned personalities in ancient Illyrian history—is intended to serve as a symbol of Albanian history, identity and pride; the monument is also expected to become a new stop for visitors traveling along the Shëngjin–Velipoja route.

The erection of the monument enhances the area’s tourism offering, aiming to bring the history and significant figures of Albanian heritage closer to visitors. The Shëngjin-Velipoja route, alongside its coastal scenery and panoramic viewpoints, continues to be enriched with new elements that blend tourism, culture and history. /p.s./