AICS and the Albanian Institute of Archaeology sign a Memorandum of Understanding for the Byllis Archaeological Park

Tirana, March 12, 2025 – In a ceremony held today at the Archaeological Museum of Tirana, AICS Tirana and the Institute of Archaeology (IA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding to collaborate on the Conservation Plan and the Multifunctional Center of the Byllis Archaeological Park (which includes the ancient cities of Byllis and Klos).

Signed as part of the European Union-funded project “EU for Economic Development – Local Economic Development Driven by Tourism, with a focus on Cultural Heritage,” the agreement aims to strengthen technical and scientific cooperation with the goal of ensuring that the conservation and development projects for the Byllis Archaeological Park, carried out by AICS, are in harmony with the scientific research conducted by the Institute of Archaeology in the area. The Memorandum provides for continuous consultations between AICS and IA at all stages of the projects, in respect of the scientific work carried out by this institute, which is part of the Academy of Sciences of Albania; furthermore, with the signing of the MoU, IA archaeologists will be invited to the Steering Committee and will be members of the Scientific Technical Committee of the project.

“This Memorandum of Understanding represents an important step forward in the conservation and promotion of our valuable archaeological heritage,” said Academician Skënder Gjinushi, President of the Academy of Sciences of Albania. “The Academy greatly appreciates the partnership with AICS, which has shown a constant commitment to the conservation and enhancement of our cultural heritage. On the other hand, the experience of the Institute of Archaeology is essential in contributing to this collaboration. Decades of research work in the Byllis Archaeological Park have created a rich heritage of knowledge and successful practices at the Institute of Archaeology, which will significantly contribute to this project.”

Stefania Vizzaccaro, Director of AICS Tirana Regional Office, emphasized the importance of this partnership for the implementation of the project at the Byllis National Archaeological Park: “AICS is committed to supporting and implementing projects that promote cultural heritage and contribute to local development. This MoU will ensure that tourism infrastructure and conservation projects at the new Byllis Park are implemented to high standards and in close collaboration with local experts.”