The songs and dances performed by the folklore groups of Shkodër district amazed the public attending the Gjirokastër National Folk Festival.

Motifs that were conveyed expressed the cultural diversity of different areas, where the groups brought epics, lyrics, love songs or choreography and ancient times, such as the ritual of Summer Day from the group of Puka.

“Lahuta (the lute) in the hand of Lumturie Nonaj, who was wearing a jubleta, brought the ancient atmosphere of Albanian legendary epic of the ‘Songs of Kreshniks’, a gem of Albanian folklore. The group from Malësia e Madhe brought to the audience pearls from the depths of the centuries, with deeply epic-warfare and survival motifs.

The rich and unique folklore of the lute, jubleta, or the “men’s lament” has passed from generations to generation by the popular performers and bards, preserving and staging the millennial authenticity.

The National Folklore Festival that is taking place in the Gjirokastër castle has started on Saturday and continues until July 2. The festival has also turned into a tourist attraction, through promoting authentic folklore and traditions of Albania. Groups from all 12 regions of the country, but also from neighboring countries and the diaspora participate in the festival.

/a.p./