The Muslim Community of Albania celebrates 35 years since the reopening of Et’hem Bey Mosque. The event marked the return of religious freedom.

The mosque was built in the 18th century. The communist regime closed it, along with all other places of worship. On January 18, 1991, a group of initiators—including Xhavit and Iljaz Alimehmeti, Ramazan Rysheku, Ibrahim Balla, and Mehmet Sinella—reopened it without permission. They restored its role as a place of worship.

Around 10,000 people gathered that day. The police did not intervene.

The mosque features frescoes on its exterior and portico. These depict trees, waterfalls, and bridges—rare in Islamic art, which usually favors geometric patterns and calligraphy.

The Muslim Community organized a ceremony to mark the anniversary. They held Quran recitations and shared personal testimonies. They honored those who served faith and knowledge over the years.

The mosque underwent restoration in 2018. The Ministry of Culture and the Muslim Community of Albania led the project. Et’hem Bey Mosque, built in 1820, remains one of Albania’s rare cultural monuments.

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