First stopTirana - Pristina
We will leave Tirana and drive toward the north of Albania where we will cross the border with Kosovo. Relatively new, the highway to Kosovo from Albania has been a symbol of bringing the 2 countries closer together. Its scenery will change from the very urban area of Tirana to more rural and former mining-related cities. Situated around 260 Km from Tirana, Pristina is the Capital of Kosovo and, the largest city at the same time. In the Stone Age, it was inhabited by the Vinča culture, which makes Pristina one of the most interesting archeological and historical sites.
Second stopNational Library in Pristina
Built close to the center of Pristina, this library brings value with more than 2000000 material copies dating from the 15th century. Apart from the fascinating old history, dating from the 15th century, now the most interesting part is its architecture. As a classic example of Yugoslavian Brutalism architecture, it was made fun of at the time during its construction. Built as a mix of Byzantine, Ottoman, and Serbian styles, the library seems like a simplified summary of the whole city. Since 1982 it has been the National Library of Kosovo.
Third stop City tour of Pristina
We’ll continue to visit the city center of Pristina. In addition, you will have the chance to see the Newborn Monument and the Mother Theresa Cathedral. The city is also characterized by a variety of Muslim mosques dating from the beginning of the 14th century. For instance, most of the capital’s citizens practice the Muslim religion. We’ll also visit the old part of the city and the Carshia Mosque which was built in 1321 and therefore the oldest one in Pristina.
Fourth stopThe House of the League of Prizren
Leaving Pristina we will head toward Prizren. It is also called the cultural capital of Kosovo. Situated on both sides of the Bistrica River, under the Prizren’s Castle, this city played a major role in Albanian history and politics in the 19th century.
Next, we’ll visit the House of the Prizren League. It is one of the most important buildings and political events of the 19th century in Albanian History. For the first time, the country had a serious action toward independence and forming a parliament and government. In addition, we’ll include a visit to the Ethnographic Museum inside the House of the League.
Fifth stopCity tour of Prizren
The next stop of our tour will be the “Stone Bridge of Love” and the Traditional Bazaar of Prizren. Situated around the Sinan Pasha Mosque, the historical part is one of the most interesting parts of Prizren. We will stroll on the streets of the old city visiting the traditional bazaar where handcrafts and perfume shops bloom on every corner.
