In an evening filled with vibrant colors and unique aromas, the Embassy of Albania in Madrid opened its doors for an unforgettable reception dedicated to the November festivities and the promotion of Albanian culinary traditions. Organized in collaboration with Albanian chef’s, this event marked an important moment for cultural ties between Albania and Spain, offering both the Albanian community living in Spain and friends of this country the opportunity to better discover the flavors, gastronomy, and rich Albanian culture.
One of the highlights of this event was the inclusion of a wide range of traditional Albanian dishes, masterfully prepared by the invited chefs Oltion Veshi, Bujar Veshi and Sokol Prenga(representing the Center Culinary for Education). The dishes provided a rich reflection of the diversity and regional nuances of Albanian cuisine, well-known for its flavorful character and use of natural ingredients—ranging from fresh vegetables, meats, to various cheeses and preserves.
During the event, participants had the chance to taste a variety of typical dishes from all Albanian regions. From the north to the south, from the mountains to the coast, everything was steeped in history and meaning. Çam bread (kulaçi çam), coastal salad (sallata e bregut), Korça meatballs (qoftet e Korçës), sardines, pispili, qumështori, petaniku, and more were just some of the specialties that surprised Spanish guests and evoked nostalgia in the Albanian community in Spain—reflecting the deep connection of Albanians with nature and their centuries-old traditions.
Another important element of this event was the presentation of Albanian wines from the well-known wineries “Mrizi i Zanave” and “Nurellari.” These wines are renowned for their high quality and commitment to preserving tradition and organic methods of grape cultivation.
Participants had the opportunity to taste these wines paired with typical Albanian dishes, and through this experience, enjoy a harmonious blend of flavor and culture that makes Albanian cuisine so special and beloved. This combination of wine flavors and typical Albanian food provided a great opportunity to discover and savor the essence of Albanian culture, which is rich and multidimensional.
This event was not only an opportunity to enjoy food and wine, but also a chance for Albanians living in Spain and friends of this country to come together and celebrate Albanian culture. Attendees, including diplomats, cultural figures, journalists, and many Albanians living in Madrid, gathered in a welcoming and festive atmosphere.
During her welcoming address, the Albanian Ambassador to Spain, Ms. Entela Gjika, emphasized the importance of keeping Albanian cultural traditions alive. She noted that this event was an opportunity to learn more about Albanian culture and traditions, especially for those who are far from their homeland.
This gathering was accompanied by warm and friendly moments, highlighting the importance of preserving connections between Albanians and other cultures. It also gave the Albanian community in Spain the opportunity to share moments of joy and pride in their identity, through music and gastronomy.
“Gastronomy is a language of the heart, capable of uniting people, sharing cultures, and building lasting bridges of friendship. “
With an event like this, it is evident that Albanian cuisine and its traditions hold a special place in the hearts of those who experience them. For Albanians living abroad, such activities are a chance to maintain connections with their identity, to spend joyful moments, and to further showcase the richness of Albanian culture around the world.
