72 years of Kinostudio “Shqipëria e Re”: A Historical and Architectural Landmark

Located in an area that bears its name, Albania’s movie studio complex, Kinostudio “Shqipëria e Re” (New Albania) stands as a testament to Albania’s cinematic heritage. Established on July 10, 1952, with the assistance of the Soviet Union the studio marked its cinematic debut with the colossal Albanian-Russian co-production “Skanderbeg,” a movie dedicated to Albania’s National Hero that set the stage for decades of filmmaking prowess in a country that had no prior cinematic tradition.

The studio’s iconic building, a historical gem once bustling with socialist realism film production, continues to captivate with its distinctive architectural style. Its facade, influenced by the Soviet architectural style of the epoch, features four imposing Corinthian columns adorned intricately from behind, showcasing a blend of grandeur and meticulous design.

Kinostudio “Shqipëria e Re ” produced over 200 films, ranging from state propaganda pieces to groundbreaking works by Albanian directors like Hysen Hakani or Kristaq Dhamo, who with their works laid the foundations of Albania’s domestic film production. By the 1980s, the studio was producing approximately 14-15 films annually, covering diverse themes that reflected the socio-political landscape of the time.

However, with the onset of political changes and economic challenges in the 1990s, Kinostudio “Shqipëria e Re” transformed into “Albafilm,” and ultimately ceased operations in 1996. Despite its closure, the studio’s legacy endures, etched into the memories of generations who grew up with its films.

Today, the neoclassical building of Kinostudio “Shqipëria e Re” stands as a poignant reminder of Albania’s cinematic past. It houses the Ministry of Culture, the National Center of Albanian Cinematography, and the Institute of Cultural Monuments, reflecting its transformation into a cultural hub that preserves and celebrates Albania’s rich heritage in filmmaking and beyond.