The rehabilitation of four religious heritage sites in Voskopojë and Vithkuq, in Albania’s Korçë region, has been completed under the Albania Infrastructure and Tourism-Enabling Project, according to a press release by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD). The project is co-financed by the EBRD and the European Union (EU) and implemented by the Albanian Development Fund. Representatives of the EU and the EBRD recently visited the four sites to mark the completion of the works. The visit also offered an opportunity to review progress under the wider programme. The initiative aims to safeguard cultural heritage while supporting tourism development in southeastern Albania.
The restored sites include the churches of St Mary and St Michael, as well as the monasteries of St Prodhomi and St Peter and St Paul. These monuments are considered among the region’s most valuable cultural and religious landmarks. Works carried out included structural stabilization, roof repairs and restoration interventions. Improvements were also made to enhance accessibility at each location. The effort forms part of a broader push to strengthen tourist infrastructure in the Korçë region and beyond.
The project is expected to boost the appeal of Voskopojë and Vithkuq, two destinations with significant cultural and historical value. Local communities that benefit from visitor activity are also expected to gain from the works. By improving the condition and accessibility of these monuments, the initiative supports both heritage preservation and more sustainable tourism. The wider programme also includes the development of a gastronomic route in Boboshtica and the construction of a museum. Additional investment targets accessibility and adventure tourism infrastructure in Dardhë, Arrëz, Sinec and Nikolicë.
Ekaterina Solovova, the EBRD’s Head of Albania, highlighted the importance of the works.
“These sites are an important part of Albania’s cultural identity and a valuable asset for local tourism. Contributing towards their restoration is an important milestone under the Albania Infrastructure and Tourism-Enabling Project,” she said.
She added that, in partnership with the EU, the EBRD also finances investments that improve access to these attractions. Support is also extended to local businesses operating along the tourism value chain. Together, these measures aim to position the region as a more attractive year-round destination.
The Albania Infrastructure and Tourism-Enabling Project is supported by the EU through technical assistance and investment grants totalling €40 million. The EBRD contributes a €60 million loan to the Albanian government. Implemented by the Albanian Development Fund, the programme supports investment in cultural and natural heritage sites across four regions: Berat, Fier, Korçë and Shkodër. It also covers municipal and environmental infrastructure, transport links and tourism-related businesses throughout Albania. Training is additionally provided to tourism workers to build the skills needed for a competitive sector.
