Këlcyrë

Këlcyrë is a town located in the Gjirokastër County of southern Albania. It is situated in a mountainous region, near the Vjosa River, one of Europe's last wild rivers. The town's name is believed to derive from the Greek word "klesteria," meaning "cloister" or "monastery," suggesting a historical religious significance.

Historically, Këlcyrë has been a strategically important location due to its position along the route connecting the interior of Albania with the coast. It was part of the Ottoman Empire for several centuries and witnessed various historical events. In more recent history, Këlcyrë was a significant site during the Albanian-Italian War in 1940, where fierce fighting took place. The Këlcyrë Gorge, a natural canyon carved by the Vjosa River, is a prominent geographical feature in the vicinity, known for its dramatic scenery.

The economy of Këlcyrë is primarily based on agriculture, with residents cultivating local crops. Tourism is also a developing sector, attracted by the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape, including the gorge and opportunities for hiking and exploring. The town serves as a local administrative center for the surrounding villages. Këlcyrë is accessible by road and is a point of interest for those exploring the southern Albanian interior and the Vjosa River valley.