The Gjergj Fishta Memorial in Lezha will become an international art hub, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport Blendi Gonxhja announced.

The project will transform the memorial into a multifunctional creative space with global outreach. The National Museum of Photography “Marubi” has joined forces with France’s prestigious photography school ESPN, with backing from European partners.

The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport supports the initiative. The site will host programs focused on ecology, writing, and photography, bringing new life to a key cultural landmark.

The initiative will introduce artist residencies and exchange programs. French and Albanian artists and students will collaborate in training and research activities. The “Fishta Footsteps” route will connect Fishta’s legacy with the rich photographic archive of the Marubi Museum.

The Municipality of Lezha, international institutions, local promoters, and agrotourism operators will work together to boost cultural tourism in the area. After authorities completed inspection and registration procedures in January, project implementation is set to begin in March.

The house-museum and memorial stand in the village of Fishta, at the birthplace of poet and national figure Gjergj Fishta, author of The Highland Lute. The memorial forms part of the “Fishta Footsteps” project, which includes 12 sites tracing his life, work, and lasting influence on Albanian culture.

/a.c/