AFA "Rugova" – Peja

Tiranë më 03.09.2025.

Who could say that the “All-National Assembly of Plisbardhvë,” held at the Krujë Castle on August 31, 2025, did not have its “own Garden”?

They were the Rugovans, from the Autokton Folklore Ensemble “Rugova,” under the direction of Mr. Florim Nikqi, who came like the northern wind, and after completing their mission, left as swiftly as the breeze from the place of the assembly, only to return once again to where they had come from.

Who could say that the “Plisbardhvë Assembly” did not have its own guard, since it was the Autokton Folklore Ensemble “Rugova” that came, fully in accordance with tradition?

The assembly members, signatories of an act—a petition addressed to national and international associations—coming from all ethnic territories of the Illyrian Peninsula, who gathered at Krujë Castle under “the shadow of its historical grandeur and the great hero Gjergj Kastrioti–Skanderbeg,” and signed a “Historical Act,” symbolized by the White Plis, have as their mission: 

To resist the erosion of our identity, which has been imposed on us from all sides through various forms and means—most notably by fellow Albanian speakers—and to preserve all of our rich and ancient heritage, historical, ethno-cultural, material, and spiritual, which undoubtedly stands on par with any other heritage. 

If you take into consideration the Rugova Ensemble, which has created an artistic era for more than 80 years, despite coming from the depths of the Blessed Nemura Mountains, it truly feels as if the brave warriors of those mountains themselves have arrived at Krujë Castle. 

The “All-National Assembly of Plisbardhvë” also opened under the piercing cry, and later the echo of that cry, reverberating and returning from the hollows of the Krujë Mountains, a song that has accompanied battles but has also marked weddings and feasts.

But it was felt that it was also opened from the era of the brave warriors, because the ensemble itself carries in its work the tradition, deeply preserved, unspoiled, and pure like the snow of the mountains.

By full merit, the Autokton Folklore Ensemble “Rugova” of Peja has been awarded the title “Grand Master” by President Bujar Nishani. 

Even the sword dance performed by this ensemble was its greatest achievement of the day, executed with high skill and artistry, leaving an impact on all participants. It was like a strong beginning that gave a positive momentum to all the day’s activities.

Not only do we thank them, but we are also deeply grateful to the Autokton Folklore Ensemble “Rugova” of Peja, who contributed voluntarily and without any narrow personal interest, motivated solely by patriotic dedication.

Through their contribution, they honored themselves, honored Rugova, honored the memory of Gjergj Kastrioti, but above all, they honored the “All-National Assembly of Plisbardhvë.”

V.O. The photo was skillfully captured by the well-known photographer and cameraman:

Sokol Pjeter Qokaj.