The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the European Union have completed the rehabilitation of four key religious heritage sites in the Korçë region of Albania, marking a major milestone in efforts to strengthen cultural tourism and local economic development.
The restoration works were carried out under the Albania Infrastructure and Tourism-Enabling Project and implemented by the Albanian Development Fund. The project focused on the churches of St Mary and St Michael and the monasteries of St Prodhomi and St Peter and St Paul in Voskopojë and Vithkuq, two historic towns known for their cultural significance.
The rehabilitation included structural stabilization, roof repairs, restoration work, and improvements to site accessibility. These upgrades are expected to enhance visitor experience and increase tourism flows to the region, supporting local communities that rely on cultural and heritage tourism.
Officials from both the EBRD and the EU visited the restored sites to mark completion of the works and assess progress under the broader regional development programme.
Ekaterina Solovova said the sites represent an important part of Albania’s cultural identity and emphasized that restoring heritage assets helps strengthen tourism competitiveness while supporting local economies.
The wider initiative also includes investments aimed at improving tourism infrastructure across the Korçë region, including new cultural routes, museum development, and upgraded access to nature-based and adventure tourism destinations such as Dardhë and Arrëz. These efforts aim to position the region as a year-round tourism destination by combining cultural heritage, gastronomy, and outdoor experiences.
The Albania Infrastructure and Tourism-Enabling Project is supported by €40 million in EU grants and technical assistance, alongside a €60 million loan from the EBRD to the Albanian government. The programme spans multiple regions and also includes support for municipal infrastructure, transport links, and tourism-related small businesses.
The EBRD remains one of the largest institutional investors in Albania, with a strong focus on infrastructure development, energy, and private-sector growth.
