This is Voskopoja! Once one of the most important cultural and commercial centers of the Balkans, today it seems to be sleeping!

Voskopoja, also known as Moskopolje, is located in the mountainous region of southeastern Albania, about 21 kilometers from the city of Korçë. This village, surrounded by high hills and fern forests at an altitude of 1,160 meters, was historically one of the most important cultural and economic centers of the Balkans during the 18th century. Today, like the nearby village of Dardha, it retains its traditional charm, albeit somewhat forgotten, and is a destination worth exploring.

Voskopoja, Photo: Dynamoland Depositphotos

The first records of Voskopoja date back to 1330, but the village reached its peak in the 18th century. It then became an important commercial and cultural center, with an estimated population of between 30,000 and 60,000. Most of the population at that time was Aromanian (Vlach), but there were also Greeks, Slavs, and Albanians. The city was known for its craft workshops, printing house, and numerous churches, and in 1744 the “New Academy” was founded, which became one of the leading educational centers for Orthodox Christians in the Western Balkans.

THE PRINTING HOUSE IN VOSKOPOJA WAS THE SECOND IN OTTOMAN EUROPE, AFTER THE ONE IN CONSTANTINOPLE, AND IT PRODUCED RELIGIOUS LITERATURE AND SCHOOL TEXTBOOKS IN GREEK.

Voskopoja, Photo: Dynamoland Depositphotos

Despite its prosperity, Voskopoja suffered several devastations. In 1769, it was attacked and almost destroyed by Muslim Albanian gangs after the inhabitants participated in preparations for the Russian-backed Greek uprising. After the city was rebuilt, it was destroyed again in 1789 by Ali Pasha Tepelena.

After these attacks, the city never fully recovered, and many of its inhabitants emigrated to other parts of the Balkans and Europe. It suffered further damage during World Wars I and II, and a powerful earthquake in 1960 destroyed many of its attractions.

Voskopoja, Photo: Dynamoland Depositphotos

Voskopoja was very famous for its churches, of which there were as many as 24 at one point. Today, five churches and one monastery have been preserved, which testify to the rich history and art of this place. The churches are famous for their frescoes and icons, the work of famous masters such as David Selenica and the Zografi brothers from Korce, and among the most important are the church of St. Nicholas, the church of St. Mary, the church of St. Athanasius and the monastery of St. Prodromios. Unfortunately, many churches were also destroyed in the earthquake.

Church of St. Mary, frescoes, Voskopoja, Photo: Marisha_SL Depositphotos

Today, Voskopoja is a peaceful mountain village with around 1,000 inhabitants. Although it is no longer the cultural hub it once was, the village attracts visitors with its rich history and beautiful nature.

Surrounded by high hills, it is also an ideal destination for nature lovers and hikers, and during the winter months, its natural ski slopes attract visitors who enjoy winter sports. In addition, Voskopoja is known for its traditional cuisine, including dishes such as lakror under a honeycomb, lamb on a spit, and local brandies.

Suppose you are a history or culture buff or simply looking for a peaceful destination to explore and relax, in that case, this interesting little village is a place you should not miss if your journey takes you to Albania!

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