A unique photo exhibition has opened in Pogradec, showcasing rare materials from the “Diary of the Greco-Italian War 1940–1941” by Arvanite author Christos Petrou Mesogeitis.

The exhibition presents historical images and notes documenting Greek army operations during the war with Italy in southern Albania, as well as scenes of the daily life of local residents in the areas where Mesogeitis passed and stayed — mainly around Pogradec and Maliq.

What makes this exhibition special is that it does not focus solely on military developments but also portrays the lives of ordinary people: their customs, professions, daily hardships, and views of villages and historical places, creating a complete picture of reality during wartime.

Christos Petrou Mesogeitis, an archaeology graduate, was involved in the Italo-Greek war and kept a detailed diary accompanied by photographs he took during his service.

He passed away in 1944, shortly before Greece’s liberation, leaving behind a rare historical testimony, now presented for the first time to the Albanian public by his descendant, Petro Filipi.

“I am very happy that after 85 years I am opening this photo exhibition of my Arvanite grandfather, Petros Mesogjitis. These photographs were published in his book, and after so long we managed to bring them into an exhibition for the first time. Mesogjitis had studied archaeology and later joined the Greek forces in the Italo-Greek war. During that period, he kept a diary about the war and the places they passed through, taking photos as well. He also helped poor families while he was in this area. The book and exhibition are dedicated to the Maliq and Pogradec areas. They reflect the difficulties the army faced in the snowy mountains during the war, and people now have the chance to see and learn more about the Italo-Greek war through them,” said Filipi.

The exhibition also highlights views of areas that no longer exist today, such as the former Lake of Maliq, three- and four-story towers in the villages of Pogradec, and moments from the rural life of farmers during wartime.