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From the US Congress to the Vatican, how the Albanian heritage magazine is conquering the world

Politiko 2026-05-10 16:40:58

From the US Congress to the Vatican, how the Albanian heritage magazine is

In a media market dominated by sensational news, an Albanian magazine is taking an unusual journey, promoting cultural heritage not only within the country, but also abroad.

Art and Heritage", a bilingual (Albanian-English) periodical edited by Ilda Mara, has reached its ninth issue, this time dedicated entirely to Catholic heritage in Albanian lands.

Founded in 2011, the magazine began as an adventure to document and promote the material and intangible values of Albanian cities.

The first issues, conceived as "mini-Wikipedias" for cities like Berat, Gjirokastra, Shkodra and Tirana, were well received by the public.

The success culminated with the issue dedicated to Orthodox heritage, which sold 2,000 copies and continues to be sought after today. The latest issue, dedicated to Catholicism, goes beyond the borders of Albania, exploring the influence and history of this religion in all Albanian-speaking territories, from Venice to Kosovo and Montenegro. According to publisher Ilda Mara, the goal was to follow the “rays of the Vatican” in the Albanian space.

In addition to historical and archaeological aspects, literature also occupies an important place, with figures such as Fishta, Mjeda, Koliqi, Camaj and even Anton Pashku, causing friendly debates on the focus of the publication. The cover of the magazine features the famous icon of “Our Lady of Good Counsel”, known as “Our Lady of Shkodra”, whose story is connected to a legend of her departure from Shkodra to Genazzano in Italy during the Ottoman occupation. This story, according to the publishers, symbolizes the deep historical and spiritual connection of Albania with Europe.

One aspect that makes “Art dhe Tarashegimi” special is its international circulation. Copies of the magazine are found in the libraries of prestigious institutions such as the US Congress, the US Senate and various universities in Europe, serving as an ambassador of Albanian culture. Future plans for the magazine include an issue dedicated to Muslim heritage, thus completing the trilogy of major religions in Albania.

Meanwhile, discussions on future topics include figures like Skanderbeg or the country's aquatic heritage, as a form of awareness of environmental challenges. At a time when interest in cultural publications is declining, the success of “Art dhe Trashëgimi” proves that there is still a thirst to recognize and appreciate the roots of national identity, a mission that this magazine is fulfilling with dedication and quality.