Albanian Minister of Culture Elva Margariti accompanied world-renowned architect Kengo Kuma from the Kengo Kuma and Associates studio, during his visit to Butrint National Park.

“We feel honored that not only does his architectural project for the new visitor center of this UNESCO-protected park bear his signature, but also for the excellent promotion that figures like him bring to our cultural heritage,” said the Minister of Culture, as a contract was signed between the Butrint Management Foundation and the Japanese studio, which won the international competition for the architectural project of the visitor center.

“This contract opens a new page in the history of Butrint National Park, restoring its entrance gate’s dignity and directing visitors toward a world heritage,” Margariti said further.

The minister, architect Kengo Kuma, and the accompanying group followed the tourist itinerary in Butrint, guided by a local guide who acquainted them with the details of the ancient city.

The title of the winning project by Kengo Kuma Associates is “Bridges-Between Heritage and Nature”.

The Japanese project was appreciated not only for its architectural solutions and unique aesthetic elements but also for its concrete approach to the natural and cultural wealth of Butrint National Park.

The new center will cover an area of 1,000 square meters and is conceptually and physically designed as an entrance gate to Butrint National Park.

It will be positioned 1.5 kilometers from the current park entrance, precisely to enhance the entrance to Butrint and to create a welcoming gateway where visitors will find more services, information, and more.