Albania, 12 July 2022: During the first day of Eid Al Adha, the Muslims of Albania celebrated the opening of Ballija Mosque (Xhamija Ballijës) in Elbasan, the third-largest Albanian city. The mosque has been rebuilt after being demolished by the communist authorities following a decree from the former communist dictator.
Mr. Taulant Balla, Leader of the Majority Parliamentary Group in the Albanian Parliament, stated that he has cooperated with several entities and Islamic associations around the world to rebuild this mosque exactly where it was built two hundred years ago.
“Thanks to our Muslim brothers out of Albania, very grateful to the donation of the State of Kuwait, especially many thanks to the philanthropic family of Shajië for the construction of this beautiful mosque. we were able to rebuild this great Islamic monument at the same place where it had been built centuries ago”, he added.
In addition, he mentioned that the new mosque resembles a very modern architectural masterpiece. It was designed by an Austrian architect, while the construction work has been handled by a local company. The building and construction processes took three years.
The mosque could accommodate up to 1500 people, while its courtyard could accommodate almost 2000 people.
Mr. Balla expressed his thanks and gratitude to all those who have contributed to rebuilding this mosque. “I would like to thank the donors who contributed to the fulfillment of this great project that serves the Muslim community in our country”, he said.
When the communist party took over the reign in 1945, there were 1600 mosques in Albania 70-80 of which were declared as protected cultural heritage. However, the communist authorities have demolished most of these mosques leaving only 22 of them which are also in desperate need for renovation.
Thanks to the engagement of Mr. Taulant Balla and grateful to the donation of the State of Kuwait, especially many thanks to the philanthropic family of Shajië for the construction of this beautiful mosque.
