In Gjirokastër, property ownership disputes involving protected cultural monuments are threatening the preservation of the Stone City’s historical and architectural heritage. As a result of these issues, several historic buildings and traditional houses have deteriorated or lost part of their museum and cultural value.
“One of the main challenges we are facing in Gjirokastër’s historic center regarding the restoration and maintenance of Cultural Monument buildings is the issue of ownership. This has created several problems, as many properties cannot be sold despite strong market demand from investors interested in converting them into guesthouses or other tourism-related facilities. Another issue is the lack of restoration work, since any project or initiative funded by donors requires the consent of all co-owners,” said Ardis Duka, Director of the Regional Directorate of Cultural Heritage.
Authorities responsible for cultural monuments are currently carrying out restoration work on some damaged buildings. However, implementing such projects remains difficult in heritage properties affected by ownership disputes.
“This issue requires a solution through legal initiatives and stricter measures, potentially even extending to expropriation. Specifically, the Ministry of Culture is drafting a plan for several properties that could be taken into public use through expropriation, transformed into museums, and opened to visitors. This would also help prevent their further degradation,” Duka explained.
Thanks to its unique architectural and historical values, Gjirokastër has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage List since 2005. The city has also become one of Albania’s most attractive destinations for international tourism.
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