Korçë brings history back, growing interest in the restoration of 100-year-old houses

In Korçë, interest in restoring houses that are over 100 years old has increased significantly in recent years. Many of these buildings are being converted into guesthouses for both local and foreign tourists, while others continue to be used as family homes. During restoration, owners take care to preserve original architectural elements such as wooden gates, doors, and windows.

Engjëll Bregu, a woodwork restorer, says that in recent years demand for the restoration of traditional elements has grown.

“In the exterior appearance they want to keep it as it was in the early years. To preserve it as it used to be. Even if they make new parts, they keep old elements. The gate itself must be 100 years old, so we maintain original features. These projects have been carried out in Albania in recent years. They want to preserve the old style,” says Engjëll Bregu.

He adds that these restorations take time and often reveal elements of foreign origin in the construction.

“They always come with surprises, it depends on what we find. Parts of the frames remain as they are. The frame is kept as an original element. I don’t think they are Albanian; they were likely brought from Thessaloniki or Italy. There are Persian-style shutters. From the way they are made, they appear to be from Italy or Greece. It takes about 20 days to complete; if they are damaged, you are forced to make new ones. It is a special technique, with the Korçë style,” he says.

In recent years alone, more than 150 building permits have been issued in Korçë for the restoration of old houses, preserving original architectural elements and contributing to the development of cultural tourism.

“KORÇA BOOM”