Woodcraft Revival: Carve Your Own Piece of Gjirokastër

I’m Ani, a licensed local guide from Gjirokastër, a city I am proud to call home. Growing up surrounded by its stone houses, steep streets, traditional crafts, and stories has given me a personal connection to the place I now have the pleasure of sharing with travelers. I have always been curious about what lies behind the famous landmarks — the architecture of the old houses, the meaning behind their details and symbols, and the traditions that have been passed down through generations. I began working as a guide in 2021 after completing my professional training in tourism and guiding. Since then, I have worked in different areas of tourism and hospitality, experiences that have helped me understand how different every traveler can be. What I enjoy most about guiding is meeting people from different parts of the world and discovering what interests them. I believe a great private experience should feel personal, so I enjoy adapting the pace, stories, and places we explore to the people I am guiding. My main expertise is Gjirokastër and the wider region of southern Albania, particularly its history, traditional architecture, and cultural heritage. I have a special interest in Gjirokastër’s traditional houses and the craftsmanship behind them, from their distinctive stone architecture to the woodwork, symbols, and traditions connected to them. Beyond the well-known sights, I enjoy sharing the stories and details that travelers might otherwise miss, as well as introducing visitors to the wider region and its lesser-known places, traditions, and experiences. Whether you are passionate about history and architecture, interested in Albanian traditions and craftsmanship, looking for a relaxed private walk through Gjirokastër, or hoping to explore more of southern Albania, I would be happy to tailor the experience around your interests, pace, and priorities. My goal is for you to leave Gjirokastër with more than photographs — with a deeper understanding of the city, its people, and the stories that make this part of Albania special.