Transformative project for 600-year-old Theth village

The Municipality of Shkodra, with the support of the Government, has presented a project for the sustainable development of the tourist village of Theth. The project envisions not only improvements to the area’s road infrastructure but also to the facades of characteristic houses, many of which will be standardized. The investment also includes upgrades to energy lines.

Why is this relevant

Long isolated and a secret known only to Albanians, in recent years Theth has become one of Albania’s best known tourist destinations. The village nestled amidst the spectacular Alps of northern Albania was first documented in 1485. Situated at an altitude of 2500 meters above sea level, the village is located within a protected national park, while the village itself is a designated historical center.

Despite this, the Government is aware that the area needs development, allowing modifications and additions to existing hospitality structures and new constructions as permitted by local legislation. These will serve as accommodations to welcome tourists, whose numbers have been steadily increasing over the years.

The challenge lies in preserving the village’s identity, which holds a church at its heart. The influx of mainly foreign tourists has resulted in fully occupied accommodation structures throughout the year. The growing demand to visit Theth is positive for the local economy yet managing this demand effectively remains a challenge.

As part of the challenge, the government has prepared a supportive package known as the “Mountains Package,” which includes fiscal incentives for all those who have invested or plan to invest in building lodges and agro tourism facilities in mountainous areas of the country.