Motion for a resolution | Doc. 12403 | 12 October 2010
Protection of the urban architecture of Korcha, Albania
Korcha is the largest city in south-east Albania. Its importance derives from the connection with Ilyas Panarity (later Ilyas Bey Myrahor), a local resident who became the first Janissary to pass through the breached walls of the Topkapi at the fall of Constantinople in 1453, and from its ascendancy as a regional trading entrepot after the sacking of nearby Moschopolis (Voskopoja) by the troops of Ali Pasha in 1788.
The significant history of Korcha between the 15th and 20th centuries is reflected in its distinctive mix of urban architecture, including Balkan, eastern, western, northern, neoclassical and modern styles.
This urban architecture is at risk from insensitive restoration and inappropriate development.
The Parliamentary Assembly calls upon the Government of Albania and the municipal authorities of Korcha to protect the urban architecture of the city.