Albania’s National Institute of Cultural Heritage has marked 61 years since its establishment, celebrating decades of research, documentation, conservation and restoration of the country’s historic monuments.

The institution traces its roots to 1965, when Albania established the Institute of Cultural Monuments to bring these activities under one organization. It later expanded its specialist teams and opened regional branches and workshops across the country.

In 1971, the institute launched its scientific journal, Monumentet, marking a milestone in research. Through field expeditions, conferences, albums and monographs, specialists have documented Albania’s history, architecture, archaeology and restoration practices.

Albania’s cultural heritage also holds international significance. Butrint joined UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 1992, followed by Gjirokastra’s historic centre in 2005. UNESCO expanded the listing to include the historic centres of Berat and Gjirokastra in 2008. In 2019, the transboundary Natural and Cultural Heritage of the Ohrid region expanded to include the Albanian side. In 2025, the village of Lin became part of the UNESCO-listed property.

The institute paid tribute to generations of researchers, architects, archaeologists and restorers who have helped identify, study and protect Albania’s monuments. It singled out Professor Emin Riza, one of the country’s leading experts in cultural heritage research and restoration.