Traditional costumes are a treasured symbol of Albania’s rich cultural and historical legacy. In the early 1900s, Shkodra was a bustling commercial hub, thriving with trade. The people of Shkodra, known for their expertise in the craft, became renowned for their work in the textile industry.

Among them was Filip Staku, a master tailor who meticulously crafted traditional costumes. His granddaughter, Albulena Staku, carefully preserves several of his 120-year-old works, a testament to his legacy.

“These costumes were worn by Catholic women from Shkodra, dating back to the 1800s and early 1900s. My grandparents owned a shop where they specialized in traditional attire. They sourced materials from Trieste and used machines to create the garments,” says Staku.

One of the most cherished heirlooms in her family is the dowry chest, passed down through generations.

“My mother’s dowry was stored in a wooden chest, crafted by a sculptor. It’s made of walnut wood and has been preserved for over a century. These items are significant because they connect me to my ancestry,” she shares.

Traditional costumes are more than just clothing; they carry the stories of our past and are invaluable treasures of Albania’s cultural heritage.