Albania declares two days of mourning for literary legend Ismail Kadare

Tirana, July 1, 2024 -The Albanian government has declared two days of national mourning in tribute to the esteemed writer Ismail Kadare, who passed away today at the age of 88.

The Council of Ministers announced that the nation will observe mourning on July 2nd and 3rd, honoring Kadare’s profound impact on Albanian literature. Flags will be flown at half-mast across all state and public institutions.

A public tribute and state ceremony will be held at the National Theatre of Opera, Ballet, and Folk Ensemble in Tirana on Wednesday, July 3rd. The event will begin at 9:00 AM and continue until 11:30 AM, followed by another session from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM.

In a mark of respect, a minute of silence will be observed nationwide at 1:00 PM on July 3rd, with all activities coming to a halt.

Additionally, the Albanian Radio and Television will play funeral music during the hours of the tributes and state ceremony to honor the legacy of Kadare.