On this day in 2022, Lumbardhi Public Again was selected among the 2022 European Heritage Award winners. This Lumbardhi Public Again initiative, spearheaded by DokuFest and EC Ma Ndryshe, is a visionary project focused on converting an erstwhile deserted cinema into a vibrant cultural nexus, thereby revitalizing a dormant segment of Prizren. Established in 2015, the Lumbardhi Foundation, the driving force behind this initiative, boasts a dedicated team comprising about 15 staff members and around 12 external collaborators.

Originating in the 1950s, the Lumbardhi cinema once stood as a beloved haunt for film enthusiasts until its decline in the 1980s led to its eventual abandonment. The cornerstone of the Lumbardhi Public Again initiative is to rejuvenate this historic edifice and transform it into Prizren’s newest cultural epicenter. The rehabilitation process involved extensive renovations, including roof repairs, window replacements, and updates to the electrical and plumbing infrastructures, with financial backing from various local and international supporters.

Today, the revitalized cinema building features an array of facilities, including a theater, gallery, library, café, and a rooftop terrace designated for cultural events, thereby creating a holistic cultural experience. The initiative also encompasses a dynamic events calendar designed to foster community engagement and cultural exchange through film screenings, theater productions, art exhibitions, and educational workshops.

The Lumbardhi Public Again project stands as a testament to the potential of cultural preservation as a catalyst for urban renewal. By resurrecting the cinema and birthing a new cultural hub, the project has not only enlivened Prizren’s urban fabric but also facilitated a platform for cultural dialogue and exchange, inviting individuals from diverse backgrounds to share insights and stories.