Drashovica lies at the entrance to the hills and mountains of the Shushicë River valley. For centuries, its location has earned it the name “Gateway to Labëria.”
The village has a history of at least 585 years and is believed to have been founded in 1431. It has played an important role in Albania’s cultural heritage, folklore, ethnographic identity and Labëria’s traditional polyphonic music.
Drashovica also holds the title “Honor of the Nation.” Its heritage includes historic battles, traditional customs, language, stone mines, religious buildings and distinctive tower houses.
The Drashovica Bridge marks one of the traditional boundaries of Labëria. The area also features the Drashovica Monument, located along the Vlorë–Kurvelesh road, about 30 meters from the historic bridge.
The bridge became a key site during two major conflicts. Albanian fighters confronted occupying forces there in 1920 and again in 1943. A bronze monument commemorates both battles and combines sculptures and bas-reliefs that depict the two periods.
The village has fertile land, abundant water and extensive pastures. These resources have supported agriculture, livestock farming and fishing for generations.
Its inclusion among the 100 villages with economic and tourism potential aims to attract more visitors and promote its cultural heritage.
Drashovica’s ancient history
The original village stood higher on the hill. Ruins still remain there today, including a former residence that has received museum status.
The old village dates back to the medieval period and has significant architectural value. Its houses once stood in terraces, creating an amphitheater-like layout.
Many buildings had two, three or four floors. Builders constructed them mainly from white Kallafet stone.
Among the most notable structures were the four-story tower residence of Arshi Halil Xhindi, the village mosque and the Pashot houses of Hamdi Mita.
One three-story tower house, built in the early 19th century, remains a cultural monument. Its façade features numerous windows and openings arranged in a harmonious design.
Archaeological discoveries have also provided evidence of the village’s long history and cultural development.
Drashovica’s historic battles
Drashovica witnessed two important conflicts in Albania’s national history.
In 1920, the village became a battlefield during the Vlora War, which ended with the liberation of Vlora from Italian forces.
In 1943, Drashovica became the site of another major battle against Nazi German forces.
The village also hosted the interregional Assembly of Drashovica in July 1911. Around 3,000 Labëria residents gathered there and prepared to fight for Albania’s independence, which was proclaimed in Vlora on November 28, 1912.
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