The new generation of local guides in Mallakastër preparing to promote Bylis heritage

The first time Florjan Musaraj visited the Bylis Archaeological Park, he was five years old. Growing up in the nearby village of Kash, he remembers walking around the park with his father and listening to him whisper stories about the glory of the ancient city.

“He used to tell me that the name of the area, Mallakastër, according to legend, derives from a saying of invaders who referred to it as a bad castle (Mal’castelo) because it was so difficult to conquer. I went there every year as a child, and that’s why I have such a special connection to the historical city and its culture. For me, Bylis represents not only a long history but also a personal story of family memories, picnics and childhood experiences,” says Musaraj.

It was this personal connection that led him to apply for an open call to train local tourist guides, as part of the programme EU for Economic Development – Tourism-led, local, economic development, with a focus on Cultural Heritage. The EU-supported project works on improving skills and capacities while enhancing cooperation between local communities and park administration. Musaraj saw this as an opportunity to expand his knowledge, strengthen his relationship with the Archaeological Park of Bylis and share its history with tourists, visitors and future generations.

“For me, it felt like a duty and a mission. I studied Electrical Engineering in Tirana, and when I returned to my village, I wanted to create opportunities for young people like me so they wouldn’t have to leave. That is why I applied for this training course. It is a good opportunity for young people to promote the historical and cultural values of Mallakastër,” he explains.

He is one of 16 applicants following lessons across various modules, learning the history of the site from Professor Neritan Ceka, who has excavated there for decades, as well as attending communication training.

The applicants will be certified in November.