TIRANA, May 4 – Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sports Blendi Gonxhja inspected restoration works at Borsh Castle. The project has been underway for several months. It focuses on preserving and revitalising the historic site.

Work crews are strengthening the rocky base beneath the castle mosque. They are also stabilising the slope to improve visitor safety. In addition, they are upgrading the access road to ensure easier entry. The project also targets structural stabilisation of the castle. Teams are restoring walls and ramparts. They are also carrying out conservation work on the mosque. This includes masonry repairs, damaged elements, and mural paintings, while preserving historical authenticity.

Meanwhile, teams uncovered new historical elements during site clearing. These include rainwater cisterns and traces of early 20th-century interventions. They also identified older structures. These findings enrich the site’s history and increase its tourism value.

The project is being implemented by Cultural Heritage without Borders Albania. DRTK Vlorë (Regional Directorate of Cultural Heritage in Vlorë) is monitoring the works. The World Bank is funding the project through the Albanian Development Fund (ADF – Albanian Development Fund), in cooperation with IKTK (IKTK – Institute of Cultural Monuments).

Looking ahead, authorities plan integrated management of the area. They will work with Himarë Municipality. Plans include green transport for tourists. They also include infrastructure improvements in the neighbourhood below the castle. In addition, authorities aim to further promote the area as a tourism destination.

/a.p./