Tomb of Ismail Qemali

Tomb in Vlorë

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Sharon Hahn Darlin

The Tomb of Ismail Qemali in Vlorë is a revered national monument that honors the legacy of Albania’s founding father and first Prime Minister. Inaugurated on November 28, 1932—exactly 20 years after Albania’s declaration of independence—the tomb was designed under the artistic direction of renowned sculptor Odhise Paskali. It stands not only as a burial site but as a powerful symbol of patriotism and national unity.

At the heart of the monument is a striking figure of the Ensign, a flag bearer clad in traditional Albanian attire. He holds the historic Albanian flag in one hand and a rifle in the other, embodying both pride and vigilance. This sculpture captures the spirit of Albania’s struggle for sovereignty and the enduring commitment to protect its freedom. The tomb’s design reflects both artistic finesse and deep cultural symbolism, making it a site of pilgrimage for Albanians and a point of interest for international visitors.

Ismail Qemali himself was a visionary statesman born in Vlorë in 1844. Educated in Ioannina and Istanbul, he rose through the ranks of the Ottoman administration before leading Albania’s independence movement. His diplomatic acumen and political leadership culminated in the formation of the Provisional Government of Albania in 1912, where he served as both Prime Minister and Foreign Minister.

Located near Flag Square and the National Museum of Independence, the tomb forms part of a historical corridor that narrates Albania’s journey to nationhood. Its serene setting invites quiet reflection, while its proximity to other key landmarks makes it an essential stop on any cultural or historical tour of Vlorë. The tomb not only commemorates a pivotal figure but also reinforces the city’s role as the cradle of Albanian independence.

The Tomb of Ismail Qemali appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Vlorë!

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