A day of celebration could not be understood without gratitude. The Minister of Culture, Elva Margariti, honored 8 personalities from Gjirokastra with the certificate of “Gratitude”.

“Thank you to all those who with their daily work made our presence possible, here today”, said Margariti on the scene of the celebration for the 15th anniversary of the declaration of Gjirokastra: “Cultural wealth of all humanity”.

A special thanks from the Ministry of Culture went to:

“To the municipality of Gjirokastra, which keeps this city afloat, whose demands are as great as its values!”

“For passing on the tradition and best values of Gjirokastra, this extraordinary city, the wealth of all humanity, which has inspired and encouraged talents, which have become models, which should be followed by the new generation”, we express our gratitude :

Masters of polyphony: Xhevat Avdalli (posthumous)

Stone carvers: Muhedin Makri (posthumous)

Artisans: Ruhije Bineri

The nightingale of the Girokastri song: Petrit Lulo

Another master of polyphony: Arian Shehu

Writers: Tasim Gjokutaj (after death)

Sociologists: Resul Llogo (after death)

Diplomat: Tatiana Gjonaj (Tushe)