Towers revitalization programme – Albanian  Telegraphic  Agency. https://en.ata.gov.al News Agency Sat, 08 Nov 2025 14:22:59 +0000 en-US hourly 1 Albania’s revitalization program to turn northern towers into cultural and hospitality attractions https://en.ata.gov.al/2025/11/08/albanias-revitalization-program-to-turn-northern-towers-into-cultural-and-hospitality-attractions/ https://en.ata.gov.al/2025/11/08/albanias-revitalization-program-to-turn-northern-towers-into-cultural-and-hospitality-attractions/#respond Sat, 08 Nov 2025 14:22:59 +0000 https://en.ata.gov.al/?p=279185 TIRANA, Nov 8 /ATA/ – A new revitalization project is set to transform traditional stone towers in four regions across Albania into hubs of cultural tourism and heritage, boosting the country’s potential in the cultural tourism sector.

Blendi Gonxhja, Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Sports, announced Saturday that the National Tower Revitalization Program will rejuvenate the northern towers into centers of hospitality, culture, and authentic local experiences in the regions of Shkodër, Lezhë, Dibër, and Kukës.

According to Gonxhja, the program will be implemented in 14 municipalities with rich cultural heritage and traditions, creating a new tourist itinerary that connects history with sustainable development for local communities.

The program is divided into two phases. Phase one (2025-2026) will focus on identifying towers in the four regions of Lezhë, Shkodër, Dibër, and Kukës. This phase will involve drafting model projects for each region and developing a comprehensive revitalization plan, with the aim of involving more public stakeholders and international donors.

In collaboration with the German Agency for International Cooperation), GIZ, the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Sports has designed a program focused on several key elements:

Towers as Guardians of National Cultural Identity: The traditional tower-houses are a unique and authentic reflection of Albania’s history, lifestyle, and architecture. Their reconstruction plays a vital role in preserving cultural heritage and strengthening national identity, especially in mountainous areas where these traditions remain alive.

Towers and the Sustainable Use of Heritage: By revitalizing and adapting the towers for contemporary use (education, tourism, cultural activities), these historical structures can transition from static museum objects to dynamic, functional elements of community life.

Towers as Tools for Education and Cultural Awareness: The tower-houses offer an opportunity to teach Albanian history, traditional architecture, and social values. They provide a unique platform for educating younger generations and raising public awareness about the importance of preserving cultural heritage.

Phase two (2026-2028) will involve the restoration of the towers, their integration into tourism itineraries, partnerships with tour operators, and the development of additional tourist products surrounding the towers.

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