The archaeological park of Bylis, situated in the Mallakastër region of southwestern Albania, has a rich history spanning from the 4th century BC to the 6th century AD, offering breathtaking views of the Vjosa River and much more to explore.
A number of local youth are now training to become tourist guides through the “EU for Economic Development – Local Economic Development led by tourism, focusing on Cultural Heritage” program.
These young individuals will unveil the park’s secrets to visitors while enhancing their own professional skills.
Supported by the EU, this initiative aims to bolster skills and capacities while fostering cooperation between local communities and the park’s administration.
Sixteen participants are engaged in various training modules, learning the region’s history from Professor Neritan Ceka, a long-time excavator of the site, and receiving communication training. They will receive certification in November.
The communication module encompasses group management, cultural sensitivity, group psychology, public speaking techniques, and essential guidelines for guiding in different contexts, including archaeological sites, walking tours, museums, and vehicles.
Ilir Parangoni, the project leader, outlines that “EU for Economic Development – Local Economic Development led by tourism, focusing on Cultural Heritage” is based on three core pillars.
“The first pillar is the preservation of the cultural heritage within the park, covering Bylis and Klos. The second pillar focuses on enhancing tourist infrastructure. The third, and most significant, pillar is the economic development of the local community, which includes various initiatives like training young local guides,” states Parangoni.
The project commenced with drafting essential documents, such as a management plan and legal frameworks, and is now progressing towards establishing a visitor center, information panels, a museum, a community corner, and trails within Bylis Park.
The objective is to transform the area into a tourist destination featuring qualified personnel, quality services, and effective management.
Local artisans’ products will be showcased, with an emphasis on authentic local offerings, from traditional dishes to embroidery.
Even though the trainees have lived in the region for years, they are now becoming increasingly aware of the diverse opportunities available in cultural, historical, natural, and industrial tourism.
The project “EU for Economic Development – Local Economic Development led by tourism, focusing on Cultural Heritage” is funded by the EU and executed by AICS, aspiring to enhance and conserve the cultural heritage assets at the archaeological site of Bylis.
The program aims to restore and preserve Bylis’s cultural heritage, improve accessibility, and bolster the sustainability of its cultural and natural assets while engaging local communities. It further advances local economic development through the EU’s Community-Led Local Development (CLLD) approach, enhancing skills and capacities, as well as fostering collaboration between local communities and the park management. (September 29)
Leave a Reply