In Bajzë, in the Malësi e Madhe region, the artistic installation “Xhubleta e Dalun N’Dritë” was inaugurated on 17 June. The work, created by artist Fatmir Juka, is dedicated to the xhubleta, one of the most important symbols of Albanian cultural identity and part of UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
“Xhubleta e Dalun N’Dritë” is one of the 15 winning projects of the “Heritage is Our Brand” grant scheme, an initiative aimed at promoting Albanian cultural heritage as an asset for local development and cultural tourism.
The project is funded by the European Union and implemented by DMO Albania in cooperation with EU Policy Hub.
Located in the heart of Malësi e Madhe, the installation is inspired by one of the 40 stories from “Albania Heritage” and seeks to highlight the historical, artistic, and spiritual values of the xhubleta, creating a bridge between tradition and the present. Through this public artwork, the artist conveys not only the aesthetic beauty of this traditional garment of women from northern Albanian regions, but also the history, identity, and collective memory it represents.
The placement of the installation in Malësi e Madhe is not accidental, as the area is considered one of the most important places of origin and preservation of the xhubleta tradition, turning the work into a symbol linking past heritage with contemporary cultural identity.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by representatives of local institutions, artists, and residents of the area. The Mayor of Malësi e Madhe, Tonin Marinaj, was also present and highlighted the importance of this initiative for the preservation and promotion of Albanian cultural heritage.
The event was preceded by the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the Municipality of Malësi e Madhe and DMO Albania, signed by Mayor Tonin Marinaj and DMO Albania Director Eva Kushova.
The ceremony was also accompanied by songs and traditional dances performed by local youth.
