This experience is recommended for those wishing to explore Piana degli Albanesi in a day and discover its unique cultural identity. If you arrive by your own vehicle, we suggest parking on Viale 8 Marzo next to the post office (this is also the stop for public transportation, with buses operated by "Prestia e Comande"). At the exit of the parking lot, you'll find an imposing statue of George Kastriota Skanderbeg, the Albanian national hero who, in the 15th century, represented the last stand of Christianity before the Muslim conquest of the Balkans. This statue, created by the artist Gëzim Muriqi, was donated to the community of Piana degli Albanesi by the Swiss-based "Hora e Skënderbeut" Association. Walk towards Corso Kastriota, following the Tozia Viaduct immediately after the post office. From here, you can admire a portion of the historic center in front of you and to your left, and a panoramic view of the lake to your right. As you walk along the viaduct, you'll pass the Church of Maria SS. del Rosario (which you can glimpse through the glass door), and immediately afterward, you'll find yourself in front of the Cathedral of San Demetrio. If it's open, we recommend visiting to admire Pietro Novelli's splendid frescoes. After visiting the cathedral, we recommend continuing uphill toward the square, located a couple of hundred meters away. The square is dominated by the monumental "Tre Cannoli" fountain. In the square, you can visit the Church of M. SS. Odigitria, which houses the imposing altarpiece of the Patron Saint of Piana, which is carried in a solemn procession through the town streets in September.

A few steps from the square is the MUSARB, the Museum of Arbëreshe Culture (please note that it is closed on Mondays). This museum houses the section dedicated to the traditional women's costume of Piana degli Albanesi. Other sections are also open to visitors, such as the historical section, which includes the Portella della Ginestra massacre, the ritual, and the extensive herbarium. Afterwards, we suggest a short break for lunch and you can continue your tour with a stroll through the historic Shesci neighborhood, where the Open-Air Museum is located, featuring urban art works by international artists who have created works that interpret our cultural identity. If you'd like to discover more, return to the square and look for the church of San Giorgio, located next to the Tre Cannoli fountain. If it's open, you can admire two masterpieces by Novelli and the permanent exhibition "Forziere Divino."

Please remember to check the opening hours, which are updated directly by the managers of the indicated facilities. ​ ​

To avoid finding the sites closed and to enjoy a unique and personalized visit, we recommend booking your private tour.

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