Albania’s cultural sites see 1.2 million visitors in 2024, up 34%
From January to October 2024, Albania’s cultural sites welcomed 1,229,195 visitors, marking a 34% increase compared to the previous year. Minister of Economy, Culture, and Innovation, Blendi Gonxhja, announced these figures, noting that 61% of visitors were international tourists.
Why is this important: The increase in visitor numbers highlights the growing appeal of Albania’s rich cultural heritage and its importance to the tourism sector, contributing significantly to the economy.
Top 5 most visited sites:
- Gjirokastër Castle: 248,890 visitors
- Butrint Archaeological Park: 195,216 visitors
- Gjergj Kastrioti Museum, Krujë: 160,402 visitors
- Shkodër Archaeological Park: 146,541 visitors
- Apollonia Archaeological Park: 117,325 visitors
Context: National museums recorded 422,020 visitors, while archaeological parks saw 478,769 visitors. Altogether, these visits generated 443,906,770 lekë in revenue, a 40% increase from 2023. Minister Gonxhja emphasized the significance of preserving and promoting these sites: “The spirit of Albania is alive in these monuments, where history meets the present and is shared with future generations.”
These results underscore Albania’s growing prominence as a cultural tourism destination and its potential for further economic impact.
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