Former military base in Bulqiza to become thematic park “Retro Bulqiza 2024”
A former military base in Bulqiza, long abandoned and in disrepair, is set to be transformed into Retro Bulqiza 2024, a thematic park designed to become a key tourist destination. The project, spearheaded by the Albanian Development Fund (FSHZH), will include spaces for local artisan markets, hospitality services, and recreational areas, aiming to attract both local and international visitors.
Why is this important: This initiative marks one of the first cases where a public property will be repurposed into a tourism complex managed by a public entity. It also aims to revitalize Bulqiza, a town historically tied to chrome mining and known for its struggling economy due to decades of exploitation by mining companies that failed to reinvest in the area. By creating an economic hub for tourism, Retro Bulqiza 2024 seeks to change the region’s image and boost its economy, providing new opportunities for local residents.
Transforming a historically neglected area:
The park will occupy a 10-hectare site and incorporate a range of features to promote the area’s cultural and natural heritage:
- Artisan markets showcasing traditional crafts and culinary products from local women and farmers.
- Hospitality facilities, including accommodation for tourists and travelers.
- Support for agricultural and medicinal plant industries, providing space for local producers and processors.
The project capitalizes on Bulqiza’s location in northern Albania’s Dibër region, a key area gaining prominence due to the newly built Arbër Road, which has improved access to the area and increased visitor interest. The initiative is expected to draw tourists interested in exploring the region’s natural beauty and cultural traditions.
Economic and cultural impact: Retro Bulqiza 2024 is more than a tourist attraction. It is supposed to serve as an economic catalyst for a community that has long been overshadowed by mining operations. By prioritizing the involvement of local women artisans and farmers, the project emphasizes sustainable development and cultural preservation. The park will not only provide employment opportunities but also help promote Bulqiza’s rich traditions to a broader audience.
What’s next: Construction on Retro Bulqiza 2024 is set to begin soon, with the Albanian Development Fund overseeing all aspects of the project. Once completed, the park will provide a model for similar initiatives, demonstrating how public properties can be repurposed to foster local development and tourism.
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