Albania earns UNESCO praise for heritage sites, told to keep pace

UNESCO has endorsed Albania’s efforts to protect four key heritage sites—Butrint, Berat, Gjirokastër, and Lake Ohrid—citing progress in management, restoration, and cross-border coordination.

Butrint saw praise for upgrades and research, while Berat and Gjirokastër were credited for preserving historical integrity. UNESCO also welcomed tighter cooperation with North Macedonia on Lake Ohrid.

Albania’s culture and tourism ministries called the recognition a milestone, but warned of tough work ahead. “This is a wake-up call, not a victory lap,” said Minister Blendi Gonxhja.