The National Historical Museum, in collaboration with the Municipality of Përmet, marked the 80th anniversary of Mary Edith Durham’s death with the opening of the exhibition “Miss Mary Edith Durham, Queen of the Mountains (1863–1944).”

Curated by the National Historical Museum, the exhibition showcases photographs and sketches created by Durham during her travels in Albanian territories. It also highlights her interactions and correspondence with notable Albanian figures such as Ismail Qemali, Mit’hat Frashëri, Faik Konica, and the Qiriazi sisters.

The ceremony, held at the “Odise Paskali” Cultural Center in Përmet, featured speeches by Alma Hoxha, Mayor of Përmet, and Professor Kastriot Bezati.

A Life Dedicated to the Balkans

Mary Edith Durham, born into a distinguished North London family, was an artist and anthropologist who became an ardent advocate for Albania. Following her studies at Bedford College and the Royal Academy of Arts, she embarked on a series of transformative journeys to the Balkans.

Her travels, beginning in 1900, led her to Albania and surrounding regions, where she documented cultural and social life. Her major works, including High Albania (1909) and The Struggle for Scutari (1914), remain invaluable contributions to Balkan studies.

A Lasting Legacy

Known as the Queen of the Mountains, Durham is revered in Albania for her deep admiration of its people and culture. Her work and spirit continue to be celebrated as a vital part of Albania’s national heritage.

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