Albania’s National Institute of Cultural Heritage increased its activity, investments and archaeological discoveries in the first nine months of 2026. Tourism, Culture and Sports Minister Blendi Gonxhja reported a sharp rise in the institute’s service revenue. The figures show a 91% increase compared with 2024 and a 93% increase compared with 2025. Investment in cultural heritage sites also increased, rising by 67% compared with 2024 and 400% compared with 2025.

Conservation and restoration projects also expanded. Archaeological surveys, excavations and inspections increased by 133% compared with 2025. Archaeological monitoring rose by 279% year on year. Agreements for archaeological monitoring increased by 164% compared with 2024.

The institute identified 21 new archaeological sites during the nine-month period. This represents an increase of 320% compared with 2024 and 200% compared with 2025. Gonxhja said the figures reflected the institute’s work on investment, conservation, restoration, monitoring and the identification of new archaeological assets. He highlighted their importance for preserving Albania’s historical and cultural identity.

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