shqisor

Shqisor is a modest municipality situated in the western part of the Republic of Albania, within the administrative boundaries of the Shkodër County. The settlement lies at an altitude of approximately 250 metres above sea level, surrounded by rolling hills and secondary forested areas that are typical of the surrounding hinterland. It is roughly 12 kilometres south of the city of Shkodër and can be accessed via a local road that connects to the national highway network.

The origins of Shqisor can be traced back to the 14th century, during which it was recorded in Ottoman tax registers as a small agrarian village. The name is believed to derive from a local dialect, meaning “place of harvest.” Modern development of the municipality accelerated during the 20th century, particularly following the construction of irrigation infrastructure that enabled more efficient crop cultivation. As of the latest census, the population stands at around 1,200 residents, with a demographic composition predominantly ethnic Albanians.

Agriculture remains the cornerstone of the local economy, alongside small‑scale livestock farming. The fertile soils support the cultivation of maize, wheat, and a variety of vegetables, while orchards of apples and plums contribute to both local consumption and regional trade. In recent years, cottage‑industry enterprises such as beekeeping and artisanal cheese production have begun to supplement traditional livelihoods.

Cultural life in Shqisor is shaped by the preservation of local folk traditions, especially during the annual "Harvest Festival," which draws participants from neighboring communities. Traditional music featuring the çiftelia (double‑stringed lute) and dance performed in the village square remain central to the celebration, reflecting the town’s dedication to maintaining its historical heritage.