Mallakastër


Mallakastër is a region and a municipality in Fier County, southwestern Albania. It was created in 2015 by the merger of the present municipalities Aranitas, Ballsh, Fratar, Greshicë, Hekal, Kutë, Ngraçan, Qendër Dukas and Selitë. The seat of the municipality is the town Ballsh. The total population is 27,062, in a total area of 329.37 km2. It is coterminous with the former Mallakastër District.

Name

The municipality takes its name from the Mallakastër hills.

Geography

The landscape consists of fields alternated with low hills. Their highest point is the hill Shëndëlli.

Population

The people from this region are called Mallakastriotë. The population is Muslim and Christian. The region is a center of both the Bektashi order and the Halveti order. The region is known for its cultural traditions and has produced many brave fighters including Rrapo Hekali.

Economy

Mallakastër is an industrially important region for Albania since it has reserves of natural gas and oil which make area a center of oil production and refining in Albania. Mallakastër is also known for its agriculture which produces a large variety of products.

Notable people