Petrit F. Zeneli / Finally, an honor fulfilled!

After 520 years, the distinguished son of Panarit, Ilia (Iljaz) Bey, was "brought back" to his birthplace. It was a moving day and a moment of rightful pride for all the inhabitants of this deeply historic region.

This great name — the most important philanthropist of all time in those lands, founder of urban Korça, and giver of the sacred name “Vakef” was remembered and honored as he deserved. With applause and tears, he was welcomed into the hearts of the people of Panarit albeit centuries late, but with all the respect long overdue.

The moment became even more touching when the kaba of the great master Aleks Xhelili echoed all the way up to the Kurore mountains, giving symbolic soul to this long-overdue but worthy return.

There was no shortage of emotional moments:

• The warm and inspiring speech of local personality Mr. Astrit Hado

• The wonderful song by master Orgest Kolonjari, specially dedicated to Panarit

• The touching verses recited by talented students from the region's school, in honor of its 450 martyrs

  
  

These were accompanied by:

• Parades in traditional clothing

• Exhibits with historical documentaries

• A book fair

• Traditional cuisine

• Folk songs and dances among hundreds of attendees

  
  

And the highlight of it all: a grand and historic festive gathering that became an unforgettable event for this summer.

The Vakef Association once again demonstrated the strength, passion, and unifying spirit it knows how to cultivate. Filled with energetic young men and women, it is the guarantee that this region will never fade away, but will live on with dignity through the generations to come.

Oh, what success! Oh, what joy! Keep your momentum alive, beloved Vakef Association!

“KORÇA BOOM”