women of Gjirokastër: albania

While travelling through Albania, I visited the small artisan centre of Desdemona Paskali in the Old Bazaar of Gjirokastër.

Desdemona began weaving on a wooden loom at just 14 years old and has now spent more than 40 years practising and preserving this traditional craft. She opened her own artisan centre in the bazaar around 10 years ago, where she makes carpets, rugs and other textiles using traditional Albanian motifs, as well as creating more modern designs.

Her shop is tucked away in the old bazaar, close to Kujtimi Restaurant. If you're visiting Gjirokastër, walk through the bazaar towards Kujtimi and keep an eye out for the small textile shop filled with colourful rugs and blankets. The wooden loom inside is the giveaway.

During summer, the shop also becomes a small teaching space where visitors can try their hand at traditional loom weaving. Desdemona has spoken about how much interest there is from international visitors, while fewer young Albanians are choosing to continue the craft.

It was really cool to see such a traditional craft still being practised in such a personal way. I loved seeing the bright colours, heavy woven rugs and the old wooden loom tucked inside the shop. i am now the proud owner of a red woven blanket with floral motifs.

If you're in Gjirokastër, seek her out.

Old Bazaar, Gjirokastër, Albania
Traditional weaving on wooden looms
Near Kujtimi Restaurant

Look for the small shop with the wooden loom and colourful handwoven textiles.