Sixty years ago, Albania founded the Institute of Cultural Monuments. Today, it operates as the National Institute of Cultural Heritage (IKTK). It continues to play a key role in protecting and promoting the country’s cultural legacy.

To mark the anniversary, IKTK organized an international conference. There, experts, professors, and distinguished guests from Albania and abroad shared their knowledge and experience. The two-day event continues tomorrow at the Polytechnic University of Tirana’s “Aula Magna.”

Additionally, Tourism, Culture, and Sports Minister Blendi Gonxhja attended the conference. He explained that after the 2019 reorganization, the Institute of Monuments joined IKTK as a directorate. It now works alongside the Archaeological Service Directorate.

“The mission continues under a broader mandate, with a new name and vision,” Gonxhja said. Moreover, he honored Prof. Gani Strazimiri and Prof. Emin Riza for their contributions to the institution and national heritage.

However, the minister also outlined the main challenges. Urban development pressures, natural and climate risks, limited professional growth, rapid digitalization, and high public expectations remain pressing issues.

Despite these challenges, over 1.3 million tourists visited cultural sites, castles, museums, and archaeological parks by September 2025 — representing a 36% increase from 2023.

Furthermore, restoration projects saw historic growth. IKTK completed 309% more interventions and invested 363% more in monuments and cultural assets. In addition, new protected zones were approved, including historic centers in Rabdishtë, Peshkopi, and Konispol, as well as the Lin archaeological site. Delvina will soon be added.

Looking ahead, Gonxhja announced major projects. Butrint will receive a visitor center designed by Kengo Kuma. Similarly, Apoloni and Bylis will open modern visitor centers. Meanwhile, Durrës Amphitheater and TID will start new restoration chapters. Moreover, a program will restore 100 historic towers across 14 municipalities.

He also emphasized institutional reform. IKTK will strengthen through self-financing, services, and a Regional Center for Conservation and Restoration, which will train new restorers and heritage experts.

Finally, IKTK will expand a Master’s in Restoration with public universities. This program will prepare a new generation to combine scientific knowledge with practical field experience.

Transition words like to mark the anniversary, additionally, moreover, however, despite these challenges, furthermore, in addition, looking ahead, similarly, meanwhile, finally help guide the reader through the story clearly and smoothly.

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