Venetian collections on display at National Library of Albania

The National Library of Albania will host a rare exhibition titled “Venetian Collections,” showcasing 600 original books and maps printed between 1400 and 1800 in Venice. Most of these works will be on public display for the first time.

Why is this important: These rare publications highlight Albania’s cultural relevance and historical connections with Venice, a major intellectual hub during the time. Key works such as Gjon Buzuku’s “Meshari,” Marin Barleti’s “History of Skanderbeg”, and writings by Bogdani and Dhimitër Frangu are believed to have originated in Venice. The exhibition also features maps related to the Balkans and Albania, emphasizing the region’s historical importance.

Context: The exhibition is curated by Elisabetta Sciarra, Director of the National Central Library of Florence. It is a collaboration between the National Library of Albania, the National Library of Florence, and the Italian Cultural Institute. According to Sciarra, the collection underscores the cooperation and influence Albania had during that period.

Piro Misha, Director of the National Library of Albania, emphasized that the exhibition demonstrates that throughout its history Albania was actively engaged with European cultural currents, not isolated.

The exhibition will open to the public on Monday and remain accessible until November 4.