Minister of Tourism and Environment, Mirela Kumbaro, said, “This center’s project, resulting from an international competition, serves more than merely as a shelter; it is the hub disseminating all information about the rare natural and cultural values of the Vjosa National Park and the various routes available for closely exploring these unique features, just as the Vjosa itself stands out as the last untamed river in Europe.”

Kumbaro stated that they welcome all citizens, businesses, local guides, and tourism operators in Tepelenë and Përmet, as well as everyone who lives and works in this valley that has remained unspoiled for centuries.

The project for the construction of the Multifunctional Center and Information Stations will be implemented by the Danish design firm “CEBRA A/S & Arup International Projects Limited & Barker Langham Limited & UNO,” which was announced the winner in December of last year.
This project was appreciated for its architectural solutions that are fully in harmony with nature and the landscape, as well as for highlighting the natural and cultural values, heritage, and history of the area.
The Vjosa River, as the last wild river in Europe, was designated a “National Park” by the Albanian government in March of this year. This designation represents a higher tier of protection than the previous status of simply being a “Natural Park.”
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