Gjirokastra is a historic town in Southern Albania with a long and multilayered history. In 2005, the city was named a UNESCO world heritage site for its unique architecture, culture and heritage.
Above the city sits the Gjirokastra Castle where the Gjirokastra National Folklore Festival is held every five years. The festival, one of the largest in the country, attracts over 1,000 artists from all over the world and features the best of Albania’s traditions, including polyphonic song, dances, folk art and costumes. The greater region of Gjirokastra is home to many styles of traditional dress, characterized by their intricate embroidery. Gjirokastra's crafts also have their own motifs and signatures unique to the area. GjiroArts, having emerged out of Gjirokastra Foundation, is part of the new movement to revitalize and preserve the old town, its history, culture and art. |