Permet
Përmet is town in south-east Albania, located about 30 km from the border with Greece, 240 meters above sea level with a surface area of 120 hectare, of which 99.000 m² are green area. Përmet District lies in the heart of the Vjosa valley and is surrounded by amazing mountains with particular flora and fauna. According to historic Turkish data from the 15th and 16th centuries, the city was created as an administrative center, and was a rich locality with markets, bars, stores and inns, which made it the commercial center. This quiet city, that today has population of 12.000 inhabitants, was considered the unofficial capital during the communist regime. Përmet has a beautiful square in the center of town dedicated to the Albanian hero and diplomat – Abdyl Frashëri. One of the most special characteristics of this city are the many roses which are found throughout the town and historic houses. One of the most amazing buildings in Përmet is the Church of Saint Nicholas. Although a major part of this large building was destroyed during the atheistic campaign of the communist regime, elements of its perfect construction are still evident.
Permet is a city known for many tourist attractions, and the thermal springs which are highly curative and recommended by doctors. These thermal springs are situated in the banks of the Langarica Canyon, which attracts hundreds of tourists from all over the world every year. The Langarica canyon is located about 200 meters away from the thermal springs and features altitude varying from 30 meters up to 150 meters. Through the rocks of the impressive canyon crosses the Langarica river, known by locals as “the blessed river”.
The Langarica canyon is surrounded by the forests and mountains of Dangelli and Shqeri and joins further the Vjosa River. The natural panorama along the Langarica canyon is stunning and untouched by the human hand. It changes through the seasons and gives a colorful and expressive scenery of the nature in this area. Inside the canyon there are many caves, a variety of trees and aromatic bushes, and thermal springs formed by sulfur waters which stream from the caves. Most of the tourists who visit these thermal springs are Albanians which use this natural resource as a cure for many diseases such as skin or bones diseases, rheumatism, ect. They come from nearby cities such as Tepelena or Gjirokastra but also from Tirana or neighboring Kosovo and Macedonia. Both banks of the Langarica Canyon get very populated during the summer season, especially the streams near Kadiu Bridge, an architectonic monument built three centuries ago. The wine and the raki of Përmet are renowned as some of the best products in Albania. Also famous are cheese, meat, honey and gliko (a characteristic dessert with fresh fruits). Throughout the year there are a lot of activities such as the “International Multicultural Festival”, “The Festival of wine” and various rafting, rowing and rally competitions.
