€6 million grant to transform Byllis Archaeological Site: a historic investment in Albania’s heritage

Albania’s Minister of Economy, Culture, and Innovation, Blendi Gonxhja, announced the approval of a €6 million grant for the management and development of the Byllis and Klos Archaeological Park from 2024 to 2029. This is the largest grant ever given to an archaeological site in the country, and it will be used to build a visitor center and museum, create new jobs, improve infrastructure, and conserve heritage. It will also enhance the environment around the sites.

The archaeological park and its management plan are supported by the “EU for Economic Development – Local Economic Development Led by Tourism with a Focus on Cultural Heritage” project. This project outlines numerous activities aimed at preserving and restoring archaeological treasures while boosting the local economy and enhancing cultural tourism. The plan includes ongoing archaeological research and excavations, as well as investments in civil works and access roads.

The management plan for the archaeological park is built upon extensive scientific research and long-term excavations led by the Institute of Archaeology, complemented by conservation and restoration efforts from the National Institute of Cultural Heritage and other affiliated institutions within the Ministry of Economy, Culture, and Innovation. The plan will be executed under the guidance of the Ministry and its specialized agencies, with substantial EU support and collaboration with the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation.

Furthermore, the Ministry of Economy, Culture, and Innovation is advancing similar management strategies for other parks, archaeological sites, and historical centers across Albania, aligning with the country’s cultural heritage laws and sustainable development objectives.