Gjirokastër honored the 89th birthday of renowned writer Ismail Kadare with a special evening dedicated to his memory, the first since his passing in July 2024.

Held at his childhood home, now a museum, the event gathered friends, admirers, writers, and artists who paid tribute to Kadare through readings of his prose and poetry, as well as personal recollections of their encounters with him.

Bujar Hudhri, the publisher of Kadare’s works, recalled the moment the writer learned of the fire that damaged his birthplace—an event Kadare viewed as the loss of the foundation of his literary journey. Reflecting on their time together at the 1999 book fair in Pristina, Hudhri noted Kadare’s composure despite the news. “He barely gave it a thought, considering where we were—in Kosovo, a land devastated by war. His wish was for the house to become a museum, a gift to his city,” Hudhri said.

The event was organized by the Center for Openness and Dialogue. Its director, Jetona Koçibelli, emphasized the importance of remembering Kadare not only through the stories of those who knew him but also through his lasting literary legacy. “Above all, we honor him for his eternal contribution, his work, which will endure for generations to come,” she stated.

Kadare began his literary career in high school, publishing his first book, Frymëzimet djaloshare (Youthful Inspirations), in 1954. His most acclaimed works include The General of the Dead Army, The Great Winter, Chronicle in Stone, Who Brought Doruntina, The Castle, The Palace of Dreams, The File on H., and The Wrong Dinner.

His birthplace in Gjirokastër has since become a cultural landmark, attracting visitors who wish to connect with the environment that shaped one of Albania’s most celebrated literary figures. As the city marked his first birthday in his absence, admirers expressed their deep appreciation for Kadare’s literary contributions and the enduring power of his work.

/a.p./