Vlora

H.G. Nielsen

The Mosque of Muradie, was built in 1542: this is believed to have been designed by the architect Sinani, on the orders of Sultan Sulejman, when he was in Vlora preparing his naval expedition against Italy.

With the closing down of the mosques and churches in 1967, it has been used as the museum of architecture of the district.

In the town centre is the bronze monument of independence, unveiled in 1972. On a high irregular pillar of rock stands a figure of a standard bearer, while below are depicted distinguished figures of the movement of Albania's independence. It is a joint work of the sculptors, Kristaq Rama, Shaban Haderi and Muntaz Dhrami. In honour of the day of independence, the main square in Vlora is called - The Square of the Flag (Sheshi i Flamurit).

The Museum of Independence : reflects the stern struggle of the Albanian's for freedom and independence, the events that brought about the raising of the flag on the 28th November l912, when Albania was proclaimed an independent state.

Vlora has a cement factory and the production of plastics, there is a cannery, whose products are used for export. The region of Vlora is rich in agricultural products, especially in fruits, olives and grapes, and in dairy products.

You should visit the near by village and the old castle of Kaniné. The view over Vlora and the Ionian see is great.  

Vlora is the seat of the Ismail Qemali University, founded in 1994, which replaced the school for Naval Officers. Students can study business administration, nursery, naval engineering and English language.