On the 49th anniversary of his death (January 15, 1975), the National Historical Museum commemorated the writer, researcher, publicist, and multifaceted figure Ernest Koliqi.

Ernest Koliqi was born in the city of Shkodra, attending the Saverian College of the Jesuits before continuing his education in Arice, Lombardy. Returning to the Motherland in 1922, he swiftly immersed himself in the country’s cultural and political life, actively participating as a member of the ‘Union’ and ‘Atdheu’ societies.

From 1933 to 1937, he pursued his literature studies at the University of Padua. During the years of Italian occupation, he held the position of Minister of Education. In 1943, he left Albania to assume the chair of the Albanian language at ‘La Sapienza’ University in Rome, where he remained until the end of his life.

Ernest Koliqi, recognized as the founder of the Albanian novel, is the author of numerous literary works, including ‘The Battle of Skanderbeg,’ ‘The Shadow of the Mountains,’ ‘Famous Merchant,’ and more. His literary expertise extended beyond poetry, encompassing the genres of novel and drama. Koliqi stands as one of the most visionary intellectuals addressing issues related to national culture and the Albanian cause.

/m.ll/