Renovated Museum of Kruja opens its doors to the public

An important Albania's cultural heritage site, the Ethnographic Museum of Kruja, has reopened its doors following extensive restoration work. The museum, damaged  in the 2019 earthquake, has been transformed into a modern space thanks to an €850,000 investment from the European Union through the EU4Culture programme. UNOPS, in partnership with the Ministry of Economy, Culture and Innovation, managed the two-year restoration project. 

The revitalised museum contains around 1000 artifacts and offers visitors a unique learning experience focused on Albanian ethnography and culture. This is achieved through innovative storytelling and multimedia displays, virtual and augmented reality experiences, projections and audio guides, and an interactive wall. 

One of the museum’s highlights is a virtual dressing room, which allows visitors to take selfies while (virtually) wearing traditional clothing dating from the 18th century. It is anticipated that the museum will attract more visitors than before, stimulating the local economy by increasing tourism and creating new income opportunities in the community.

The reopening of the museum was attended by H.E. Blendi Gonxhja, Minister of Economy, Culture and Innovation, H.E. Silvio Gonzato, EU Ambassador to Albania; Ms Freya von Groote, UNOPS Austria Multi Country Office Director; Ms Fiona McCluney, UN Resident Coordinator; and other dignitaries.

The Minister of Economy, Culture, and Innovation, Mr Blendi Gonxhja, remarked on the occasion: “I am certain that complete reconceptualization of this space, new ways to display the artifacts, along with the addition of interactive elements will increase the fascinating power that this museum has, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for everyone”.

EU Ambassador, H.E. Silvio Gonzato, added: “EU4Culture is not just about renovating buildings or exhibiting artifacts. It’s about showcasing Albania’s cultural identity. When we know who we are and where we come from, we are not afraid of diversity, of other cultures and traditions. That is why through this museum, and the EU4Culture programme, we are not just preserving the Albanian heritage, but also promoting a more inclusive society”.

The Director of UNOPS Austria Multi Country Office, Freya von Groote, stated: “This restoration project showcases our shared commitment with the European Union and Albania's Ministry of Economy, Culture and Innovation to preserve Albania’s rich cultural heritage for future generations”.