The Traditional Wedding Ritual of Gjirokastër

The video below documents the recreation of the Traditional Wedding Ritual of Gjirokastër, one of the key activities of the “Crafting the Future” project, implemented within the framework of the Culture and Creativity for the Western Balkans – CC4WBs programme, financially supported by the European Union and implemented by UNESCO.

This activity brought renewed attention to one of the most meaningful expressions of Gjirokastër’s intangible cultural heritage, reviving elements of the traditional wedding ceremony, including costumes, songs, rituals, family roles and the distinctive atmosphere of the city. Through the involvement of the local community, artisans, performers and different generations, the activity contributed to the preservation, documentation and transmission of these traditions to today’s audiences and future generations.

The recreation of this ritual serves not only as a cultural record, but also as a way to strengthen local identity, promote Gjirokastër as a heritage city and encourage greater appreciation of traditional practices, craftsmanship and the collective memory of the community.