Burrel

Understand

The last archaeological researches has explored different trails which demonstrate the population of the area from the Paleolithic era. The valley of Mati, has been populated during all the historic periods. In antiquity the region was inhabited by various Illyrian populations including the Pirustae. In second century BC the region came under Roman control.

A famous native of Burrel was Ahmet Zogu, first King of the Albanians (born Ahmet Zogolli, later changed to Ahmet Zogu; 8 October 1895 – 9 April 1961), who reigned as King Zog I from 1928 to 1939. He had been a Prime Minister of Albania between 1922 and 1924 and President of Albania between 1925 and 1928.

At one time, Burrel was referred to as the "city of apples" because of the apple trees that lined many of the town's streets, however, during the time of the Communist regime and the unrest following the change of government, the apple trees were cut down for profit or personal use as firewood. There are hardly any apple trees left in the town now.

Burrel was a miners' town during Communist era, but the mines closed, with the exception of a ferrochrome plant still operational near Burrel.

During the Kosovo conflict there was a refugee camp near Burrel with a capacity of 2,000 people. All the expenses were covered by NATO and United States Armed Forces.

Do

Visit Parku Kombëtar i Qafë Shtamës Visit Pazari i Vjetër Explore the town center market for local products and chat with residents to learn about Mat traditions.

Buy

In Burrel, you can buy quite a few traditional and local things, especially if you are looking for something authentic.

Go next

Klos - small town nearby. Nice for bike or motorbike rides. Peshkopi - bigger town nearby. The main park and evening promenade are full of youth. Close to the thermal baths for relaxing. Lezhe - different vibe, near the sea. Tirane - Albanian capital. Kruje - tourist town. Old bazaar, cafes with views.