The inclusion of the monasteries in the Drino Valley on the ‘World Monuments Watch 2025’ list is seen as a valuable opportunity to promote and restore their cultural heritage.

The Drino River Valley in the Gjirokastër region is home to several cultural monuments, including religious sites that represent important elements of Albania’s cultural legacy.

Monasteries like those in Ravenna, Duvjan, and Spilë hold significant historical and religious importance for the southern region and beyond.

These monasteries are now pivotal for tourism development in the area. Their preservation and restoration are crucial to attracting visitors to the southern part of Albania.

“This is a crucial matter for the development and preservation of these monuments, especially since they are located in remote mountainous areas. If they are not central to tourism, their longevity could be threatened. The Regional Directorate of Cultural Heritage in Gjirokastër, along with all its donors – including the U.S. Ambassador’s Fund – is doing everything possible to ensure these monuments receive the necessary investments and restorations,” said Ardis Duka, Regional Director of Cultural Heritage in Gjirokastër.

Religious tourism is increasingly drawing both local and international visitors to the Gjirokastër region.”

/k.s/