Zhvendoshen

Zhvendoshen is a term used in Albania, particularly in rural areas, to refer to the practice of moving livestock, such as sheep and goats, to higher mountain pastures during the summer months. This seasonal migration is a traditional form of transhumance, driven by the need to find fresh grazing land as lower altitude areas become dry and less productive in the heat. The process typically involves shepherds guiding their flocks along established routes, often spending weeks or months in the mountains before returning to lower elevations in the autumn.

The practice of zhvendoshen is deeply ingrained in Albanian pastoral culture and has been carried out for centuries. It plays a significant role in the economy of many rural communities, providing livelihoods through the production of meat, milk, and wool. The high mountain pastures offer rich vegetation that allows the animals to thrive, and the milk produced is often used to make traditional cheeses. Beyond its economic importance, zhvendoshen is also associated with social traditions and community bonding among shepherds.

In recent decades, modernization and changes in land ownership have presented challenges to traditional zhvendoshen. However, the practice continues, adapting to new circumstances. Efforts are sometimes made to preserve this cultural heritage, recognizing its ecological benefits and its connection to the identity of many Albanian highland regions. The movement of livestock is a visible and important aspect of the rural landscape during the warmer parts of the year.