The first Arbëresh Mural Week has concluded successfully in Pallagorio, Calabria, Italy. For seven days, artists from Albanian-speaking communities created murals inspired by Arbëresh history and culture, transforming the town into an open-air art gallery.

One of the standout works pays tribute to Lake Shkodra, symbolizing the enduring ties between Albanians and the Arbëresh community.

Organizers hailed the festival as a success and plan to make it an annual event.

Organizer Ettore Bonanno thanked the artists, students and volunteers for donating their talent to the local community. He said the event would leave a lasting cultural legacy.

Meanwhile, Young Entrepreneurs President Angelo Sturino stressed that preserving the cultural identity of Calabria’s Arbëresh villages remains a key challenge. He added that art is one of the most effective ways to achieve that goal.

Artist Lebibe Topalli said the murals celebrate tradition while reflecting the shared heritage of Albania, Kosovo and the Arbëresh community.

In addition to mural painting, the festival featured exhibitions, cultural discussions and live music performances.