The History of Korca
The region has been inhabited since ancient times. There are remains of the Neolithic period that indicate the existence and survival of the city for 6000 years. The city prospered in the nineteenth century and became an important political and cultural center.
It was in 1887 that the first Albanian School of Learning was established, which more recently has become the headquarters of the National Museum of Education. Korca was occupied by Greek forces between 1912-1914 and between 1916-1920 by French forces. In 1940-1941 the city was again occupied by the Greeks during the war between Italy and Greece. On October 24, 1944 it was released by the occupying Nazi-Fascists. The population today consists of about 166,000 inhabitants and is now an important agricultural and industrial center.
The city of Korca
The city of Korca is the capital of the south east of Albania and is situated on the slope of the mountain of Morava in the east, 800 meters above sea level. Knitting, woodcrafting, shoe factories (1946), organizations of artistic products are some of the largest firms in the city. The first brewery was established here in Albania and is called ‘Birra Korca’.
The mountains of Korca
One of the most interesting places to visit in Korca is the Medieval Museum of Art opened in 1980, which represents the culture of the Albanian people. The most striking and beautiful building in town is the Cathedral (the largest in Albania) in the center of the city. Especially magnificent are also the neighborhoods near ‘Shen Gjergji’ and the Course ‘Republika’ known for the typical cobbled streets.
Culture, events and traditions of Korca
The city is popular for the songs known as ‘serenades’, accompanied by guitars. It is also known for the biggest Carnival festival of Albania, which takes place every year on January 6 as a custom and tradition kept alive in Albanian culture throughout the years. The typical dish of Korca is the ‘burek’ also called ‘lakror’ (cooked with onions and tomatoes).
By Elsi H
Photo: Travel Photo 1 Neviana Zhgaba, Photo 2: Only Tradition Travel Photo 3 only tradition, Photo 4: Sue Powell, Travel Photo 5 blackcharliepho
