Footsteps Through Centuries

 

Footsteps through centuries

-Tringa Shatri-

 

“To remain ignorant of history is to remain forever a child” –CICERO

History is what makes us all unique, yet the same. It is the one thing that keeps us alive through centuries for other generations to look back at, and see how much has changed throughout the years. Albanian history is very intriguing, that is why I and my friends decided to visit the museum, and have a closer look at the tools which our ancestors used through different stages of life, to have a better understanding of our own history.

 

Albanians are known to be one of the most beautiful races in the world, but as we know, beauty is not simply being naturally beautiful. Jewelry also plays a huge role on this part. I was fascinated to find out that for Illyrians, accessorizing themselves seems to have been highly important. I was mesmerized to see all the unique handcrafted jewelry which women used to use as accessories hundreds and thousands of years ago.

There were numerous bronze rings. Each one of them had unique designs and engravings on their plaques, which further proves their love and detailing on looking beautiful. There were plenty of necklaces too, all made with unique beads which I’m sure enhanced and brought their looks to a different level.

Music is one of the first things that people notice about our nation, since it is very unique and beautiful to the ear, but it also seems to have been like that for centuries. I had the chance to have a close up look at the musical instruments which have enriched and made our music unique for all these years. Fyelli is an Albanian instrument which has been used by our ancestors for centuries. Not only it is beautiful to hear its melody, but it was also fascinating to look at. The detailing, art and love put into, both, the external and internal part of the Fyelli, were truly breathtaking. 

 

I grew up hearing stories about the Legendary Albanian Commander Adem Jashari and his bravery. I have also visited his historical skeleton house once, but nothing compares to having a close up look at some of the personal belongings of this historical hero. The one thing that mainly caught my attention in that museum, apart from the weapons and uniform used by Adem Jashari before and during the last war in Kosovo 1991-1998, was his personal motorcycle. It was truly beautiful to be able to see further into a person’s personal life and their other passions other than what they are known for. The memory and the photograph of this rare and unique motorcycle is something that I will cherish for a long time.

It is true that history needs to be documented in order for it to be remembered, but when you yourself are a part of the history, you experience it in a different level. Even though I was just a child in the year 2008, I still have a clear vision of the different emotions I was feeling at the time. That is why I decided to conclude this blog with the Kosovo declaration of independence.

A museum is the house of generations, in which you will be able to see sides of your ancestor’s history which you might have had no idea existed.