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Vushtrri
Municipality and city
Vushtrria Vushtrri / Vucitrn
Location of municipality of Vushtrri
Coordinates: 42°49′N 20°58′E
Country	Kosovo
District	District of Mitrovica
Government
• Mayor	Bajram Mulaku (PDK)
Area
• Total	345 km2 (133 sq mi)
Elevation	944 m (3,097 ft)
Highest elevation	1,380 m (4,530 ft)
Lowest elevation	508 m (1,667 ft)
Population  (2011)
• Total	69,870
• Density	202/km2 (520/sq mi)
Time zone	UTC+1 (CET)
• Summer (DST)	UTC+2 (CEST)
Postal code	42000
Area code	+381 28
Car plates	02
Website	Municipality of Vushtrri

Vushtrri or Vučitrn (Albanian: Vushtrri or Vushtrria; Serbian: Вучитрн, Vučitrn, pronounced [ʋǔtʃitr̩ːn]; Turkish: Vıçıtırın) is a city located in the north part of the Republic of Kosovo. With a total population of 69,870 the municipality of Vushtrri is the 9th largest municipality in Kosovo by population. It has a total area of 345 km², and the density of population is 202/km² . This area covered by Vushtrri takes approximately 3.2% of the total territory of the Republic of Kosovo. Vushtrri is surrounded with the city of Mitrovica in north, Podujeva (Besiana) in east, Obiliq (Kastriot) in south, Drenas (Gllogovc) in south-west, and with Skenderaj in west. The municipality of Vushtrri has 67 villages.

Vushtrri is an antique locality dating since the time of Illyrian Empire, respectively the Kingdom of Dardania who lived in the territory of Kosovo in the fourth century B.C. The Illyrian name of Vushtrri was Viciana which means “The side of calves” (Ana e Viqave). When the Roman Empire invaded the Kingdom of Dardania in the first century B.C, the Romans added the Latin suffix ‘um’ to the name of Viciana, and therefore it became Vicianum. In the documents of Ottoman Empire, who invaded Albanian territories in 14th century, we find the name of Vushtrri as Viҫitrine, that has a meaning of “Calves’ fence” (Trina e viҫave). The Serbian occupation tried to change the name of the city into Vucitrn, that it's supposed to have a Serbian meaning, but that’s not scientifically correct. Nowadays, the Albanian name for the city is Vushtrri.

The cultural and historic monuments left as the city’s heritage, is the main characteristic of the city. The Castle, Stone Bridge, Public Bath and Cesme build centuries ago are the biggest attractions of the city.

Vushtrri is an important economic centre, mostly known as the biggest producer of potato in Kosovo. Known as the centre of many factories and important companies of Kosovo, such as: Vipa, GalvaSteel Llamkos, Binni, Berto etc.

In the centre of Vushtrri 25 km northwest of Prishtina, it is located the Kosovo Academy for Public Safety (KAPS) established on September of 2006. Initially it is called Police Service School, but from the end of the year 2011 by the approval of Law, gets the name of Kosovo Academy for Public Safety (KAPS). KAPS as an executive agency of Ministry of Internal Affairs provides basic and specialized training for the Kosovo Police, Kosovo Correctional Service, Kosovo Customs, Emergency Management Agency as well to other public safety agencies. During the year at KAPS are trained from 12,000 to 13,000 public safety officers in basic, advanced and specialized training. KAPS Vision is to prepare and further develop staffs for maintaining order and security that are able to offer professional and quality service and win the full confidence of the public.

History

For Timeline of the History of Kosovo including many places in Vushtrri, see Timeline of Kosovo history.

Antiquity

Dardan Kingdom was established in the year 1900 AD. About Viciana we could talk since the IV century AD. Dardan Empire lied in the center of Balkan and included an area that corresponds with the Vilayet of Kosovo of 19th century. Viciana lied in a wider area than Vushtrria in todays. Religion was polytheist and the main departments of economics were farming, agriculture, etc. Dardan Empire was invaded by Roman Empire in the first century AD. In the roman period, in Dardania started to develop the road network, whereas, in Kosovo crossed major roads such as; northeast-southwest named Naissus-Lissus; and northwest-southeast that connected Bosnia with Skopje, between Viciana. The ancient locations are known as Gjytete, such as; Samadrexha, Gjyteza, Gjyteti, Pestova, Breglumi etc.

Medieval

After the separation of Roman Empire, the Illyrian lands were under the administration of Byzantine Empire. During the first centuries of medieval ages, Vushtrria was populated by the people that came from north and south of Europe. According to multiple sources, the region of Vushtrri liaises with the Battle of Kosovo, 1389. According to oral data, Milosh Kopiliqi was born in Vushtrri, from Kopiliq village. After the battle of Kosovo the Ottoman officers were placed in Vushtrri. During medieval, it is worthy to mention the rise of Raguza colonies, during 14th-15th centuries.

Ottoman

In the documents of Ottoman Empire it figures the name of Vicitrine. Ottoman Empire territories were divided into: eyalets, vilayets, sandzak, kaza and nahije. Sandzak is a territory divided into kaza and nahije. Vushtrria’s Sandzak was the oldest and the most important sandzak of the Empire because there were the ores of gold, silver and seal. Until the end of 21st century Vushtrria was a big military and commerce center, with an architecture of oriental style.

File:Vushtrria e vjeter viti 1940.jpg

Vushtrri of 1940

Modern

In the end of 18th century, Vushtrria started to lose its importance because of the Austro-Hungarian wars, the migration, internal economic crisis and the development of other regional centers. Vushtrri gave a great contribution in the general rebellions of 1910-1912. Hasan Prishtina was the greatest intellectual man of the time, who’s patriotic activity was the key to development of education and economy in the Albanian territories. In 1912, the Serbian army invaded Vushtrri committing big crimes. The 20s were characterized with the rebels activity. Azem Bejta and Shote Galica were the main activists of the time. The half of 19th century found Vushtrri under Serbian occupation.

Kosovo War

War memorial

During 1998-1999,the Kosovo Liberation Army started to organize the war against Serbian occupation. The mobilization started in the villages of Strofc, Pantine, Ceceli, Galice, Bequk, Gjytet etc. During the fights against the Serbian army, many KLA soldiers were killed, and many civilians were murdered. The Serbians did many massacres in the municipality of Vushtrri: The massacre in Reznik – 06.04.1999 The massacre in Martirak – 02.05.1999, when nearly 116 people were murdered. The massacre in the city of Vushtrri – 24.05.1999 More than 500 people were killed during the war in Vushtrri, and more than 108 people went missing without a trace. NATO forces entered Vushtrri in 16th of June 1999, which is the date of the Vushtrria’s liberty.

Geography

Vushtrri is located in the north-east of Kosovo. With a total area of 345 km², its maximum length is 34 km north-south and maximum width about 23 km east-west. The municipality’s border line includes nearly 104.5 km. Vushtrri is surrounded with the city of Mitrovica in north, Podujeva (Besiana) in east, Obiliq (Kastriot) in south, Drenas (Gllogovc) in south-west, and with Skenderaj in west. The municipality of Vushtrri has 67 villages. This area covered by Vushtrri takes approximately 3.2% of the total territory of the Republic of Kosovo. Vushtrri has a very favorable geographical position because it lays in the northern part of “Rrafshi i Kosoves” (one of the two regional flat units of Kosovo), where the antiquity and medieval transport routs met, which had an important role in creating and developing the city and the region . The two most important antique routs in Kosovo were: north-east to south-west, respectively Naissus-Lissus road (Nis-Lezha); and north-west to south-east, road that connected Bosnia and Macedonia. It is said that these to routs passed by Vushtrri, and had a very important influence in developing the region of Mitrovica. Nowadays, Prishtina-Mitrovica highway passes through Vushtrri, and links the north region of Kosovo with the east and central part of the country.

Vushtrri view from Bukosh.

Topography

In general, the territory of Vushtrri has a hilly land relief. Based on morphological characteristics, in the territory of Vushtrri there are three relief compounds: valley, hilly and mountains. The lowest point of Vushtrri’s relief is 508 meters near the place when river Smrekonica flows into Sitnica river. The highest point in the territory of Vushtrri is 1380 meters in “Maja e Zeze” peak, in the south of Bare village. The valley territories are represented by alluvial space of Sitnica river, which lies from north to south, reaching its maximum width before the merger of Sitnica and Llapi river. The hilly relief is mostly seen in the east and west side of municipality. The mountains in Vushtrri can be seen in the south part of Kopaonik and east side of Qyqavica. Qyqavica Mountains lies in the western side of the city, with its highest point of 1091 meters. These mountains are a natural border between two big valleys, known as “Rrafshi i Kosoves” and “Fushegropa e Drenices”.

Waters

Sitnica River

The view from Sitnica river

In the territory of Vushtrri flows the biggest river in the city, Sitnica. It is the second biggest natural basin river of Kosovo with 2912 km², after Drini i Bardhe (4313 km²). According to many years of hydro-metrical observation, river Sitnica brings approximately 13.94 m³/s of water, or 439.11 million m³ of water per year. The Sitnica river gathers smaller rivers such as Llapi, Lumkuqi, Terrstena, Banja e Gjytezes and some other water flows that comes from the east side of Qyqavica Mountain. Now Sitnica river is in 4th category of pollution, category which includes the most polluted rivers in Kosova. Besides chemical pollution, Sitnica river is also contaminated by KEDS’s phenol, industrial and urban water.

Through the city it also flows river Terrstena whose spring is in the south-west of Kopaonik Mountains. Vushtrri is provided with water from “Iber-Lepenc” hydro system. Around 84% of households residing in Vushtrri report to be connected to the public water provider - water is piped into their dwelling or compound - compared to Kosovo’s average of 60% of households. The remaining households have access to safe drinking water through public taps (1%), protected wells (1%), and protected springs (3%), while 4% use bottled water. Eight percent of households in Vushtrri (compared to Kosovo’s average of 9%) do not have access to safe drinking water as they get it from tube wells or boreholes

Climate

Based on geographical position, Kosovo has Mediterranean-Continental climate and European- Continental climate. Vushtrri is characterized with cold winters and hot summers. The city doesn't have any climate station with full data and observations of meteorological conditions, so the main information comes from the nearest stations, Mitrovica and Prishtina. Vushtrri has nearly 2140 hours of insolation during the year.

According to monthly average of temperature, the highest temperature rates are in months of July and August (20˚C), while the lowest rates are in January (-1˚C). The annual average temperature is about 10.1˚C.

The annual average rate of air humidity is 77.2%. Atmospheric precipitation of the year in Vushtrri, is about 646 mm.

Natural Resources

Vushtrri is rich in natural resources, especially minerals, wood and stone, especially in the areas below: ƒƒ

• Duboc: Magnesite and Porcelain
• Bivolak, Zhilivodë, Beçuk, Stroc, Gllvotin – wood coal
• Pasomë, Tërllobuq, Smrekonicë dhe Shalë – exploitation of stone
• Gumnishtë and Boshlan – lead and zinc ore
• Bajnskë – thermal and mineral water
• Gjelbishtë and Gojbulë – mineral water
• Karaçë – mineral sources

Demographics

Vushtrri is one of the oldest localities in Kosovo. Territory of municipality was located in the north part of Dardania. The Roman Invasion founded this area well-organized economically and politically. Data about this settlement was given by a large number of historians. One of them was the famous ottoman traveler Evliya Çelebi. In his book of travels in 1662, he quotes: “…Vucitern was invaded in 792 by Gazi Hodovendiqar, who destroyed the fortress. Vucitern is the centre of Sanjak of Vucitern, depended by Eyalet of Rumelia…..The residents of Vucitern are a nation of Rumelia. They speak Albanian language and Turkish. I never heard them speak Bosnian language…”. The municipality of Vushtrri has 67 villages. The total number of residents of Vushtrri Municipality is 69,870. 27,272 people live in urban areas, while 42,598 live in rural areas. The density of population is 202/km². According to Kosovo Agency of Statistics, the number of children born in Vushtrri after 2005, is 6504 babies. Vushtrri is characterized with young population, high level of birthrate, and with local, regional and external migration.

Demographic data by municipality, Kosovo Agency of Statistics

Total number of population	Age-groups
	0-24	24-26	Over 65
69,870	33,326	32,036	4508

Total number of population	Albania	Serbian	Turkish	Bosnian	Roma	Ashkali	Egyptian	Gorani	Others
69,870	68,840	384	278	33	68	143	1	3	120

In Vushtrri there are 11,866 households. 4890 of them are located in urban zone, and a number of 6976 are in rural areas. Average number of persons per household is 5.9 people. According to the statistics, in Vushtrri there are 13,740 buildings. The number of occupied houses is 11,650.

Resident population by first and second source of livelihood in the municipality of Vushtrri, Socio-Economic data by municipality, Kosovo Agency of Statistics.

First source of livelihood
	Work (including work in own land, work in own business or family business)	Property, investments(rent of a real estate, financial interests	Pensions	Social assistance	Other assistance(unemployment benefits, sickness and maternity allowances, scholarship)	Transfer of money from abroad	Support by other persons(Excuding remittances	Other sources
Total	16486	303	5346	4902	274	1903	34663	5993
Urban	6591	181	2203	1698	82	831	13726	1960
Rural	9895	122	3143	3204	192	1072	20937	4033

Second source of livelihood
	Work (including work in own land, work in own business or family business)	Property, investments(rent of a real estate, financial interests	Pensions	Social assistance	Other assistance(unemployment benefits, sickness and maternity allowances, scholarship)	Transfer of money from abroad	Support by other persons(Excuding remittances	Other sources
Total	688	338	1031	556	32	1668	3960	17598
Urban	252	265	580	113	12	547	1439	3791
Rural	436	73	451	443	20	1121	2521	13807

Cultural Heritage

Old City Fortress – the Monument was built in the center of the old city, which remains in the city center. The Old Fortress in Vushtrri was built in the Justinian I period (527-565). It served as an inn during the medieval period as well as the Ottoman Empire era. It has a surface area of 1.100 m², and the pyrgus has a surface area of 100 m². Its walls are 10-12 m high and 3-4 meters thick.

The Old Stone Bridge – This monument was built between the late antiquity and early medieval periods. The bridge is located in the northwestern part of the old city. It is 135 meters long and six meters wide and has nine arcs. However, based on the legends it had 12 archs which were later covered. The Stone Bridge was built over the Sitnica River, but the river has since changed its course by several hundred meters to the west.

The Hammam (Public Bath) in Vushtrri was built in the northwestern part of the old city. This public bath was built in the XV century by Gazi Ali Beu. It is one of the oldest hammams in the Balkans, and was used until the Second World War. It served as a public bath for both men and women, who used the hammam on different days. These monuments are under state protection.

Ura e gurit Stone Bridge of Vushtrri

Castle of Vushtrri

Cobbled road

Cityscape

Vushtrria during daylight

Vushtrria during the night

Government

Name of the party	Votes	Percentage	Seats
PDK - PARTIA DEMOKRATIKE E KOSOVËS	9,641	34,64%	12
LDK - LIDHJA DEMOKRATIKE E KOSOVËS	5,418	19,47%	7
AAK-LDD ALEANCA PËR ARDHMËRINË E KOSOVËS LDD	5,084	18,27%	6
VV - LËVIZJA VETËVENDOSJE!	2,837	10,19%	3
PD - Partia e Drejtësisë	1,324	4,76%	2
G.I.SRPSKA	538	1,93%	1
LB - Lëvizja Për Bashkim	520	1,87%	1
KDTP - Kosova Demokratik Türk Partisi	492	1,77%	1

The mayor of Vushtrria municipality is Bajram Mulaku from the biggest political subject in Vushtrri, PDK (Kosova Democratic Party), elected by the citizens in the 2013 local elections for the third time in a row. The municipality assembly consists of 35 members of 8 different political subjects, and its chairman is Shpetim Zhegrova. The executive of Vushtrria municipality consists of 12 departments.

According to Medium-term Budgetary Framework 2014-2016, the municipality of Vushtrri has planned a significant increase of the budget in the next three years. Comparing to 2013 where the municipality budget was about 12.6 million euro, in the 2014 the budget will be approximately 13.4 million euro. The government grant will be 11.7 million euro, while the own source revenues 1.6 million euro.

Performance of the Public Administration

Thirty-five percent of Vushtrri respondents reported that they had visited the municipal office during the last 12 months to request a document (e.g. birth certificate, building permit, and such) or a service. A slightly higher share than Kosovo’s average, 84% compared to 82%, reported that their request was fulfilled, whereas 6% reported that they were only sometimes provided with the requested document or service. Higher percentages of Vushtrri residents compared to Kosovo’s averages think that the Public Administration is efficient or very efficient in issuing all of the following documents: passports (87%), ID cards (90%), vehicle registration documents (79%), driver’s licenses (84%), building permits (73%), business licenses (70%), marriage, birth, and death certificates (87%), and Social Assistance cards (69%).

Satisfaction with local authorities

KMS 2012 data show that the share of Vushtrri residents who are satisfied with the work of their Mayor, Municipal Assembly, and Municipal Administration is lower than Kosovo’s average. Sixty-seven percent of Vushtrri residents compared to 69% of Kosovans on average are satisfied with the work of their Mayor, 49% compared to 63% of Kosovans on average are satisfied with the work of their Municipal Assembly, and 45% compared to 64% of Kosovans on average are satisfied with the work of the Municipal Administration. A relatively high share (65%) of Vushtrri residents believes that their local authorities have the capacity to solve the problems in their municipality. The share of those who believe that only the central government can solve these problems is equal to Kosovo’s average of 15%.

Satisfaction with public services

The satisfaction level of Vushtrri’s residents with local authorities is slightly higher than Kosovo’s average. While their satisfaction level is significantly lower for most of the public goods and services, the residents of Vushtrri are more satisfied with public procurement and tenders, protection of cultural heritage, nature and species conservation, management of public spaces (availability and usability of parks and squares, street lighting, and environmental protection), public parking (safety, availability, signage, and location) and sidewalks (availability, usability, and condition) compared to Kosovo’s averages. The residents of Vushtrri are mostly satisfied with access and quality of education in preschools, primary schools, and secondary schools, emergency services (firefighting and medical emergency services), and Kosovo Police. The lowest satisfaction level has been recorded for electricity supply, supply of medicines and medical supplies in hospitals and family medical centers, and cultural, youth, and sports activities.

Economy

The municipality of Vushtrri is a city with a sustainable economic development, thanks to qualitative arable land that offers favorable conditions of cultivating many agricultural crops. Vushtrri is the leader in production of potato in Kosovo. In Vushtrri there are 2641 registered businesses. Most of these businesses are oriented in commercial activity. Based on official data of Ministry of Trade and Industry, nearly 45.36% of businesses are engaged in commerce, 19% of them in transportation and telecommunication, 9% are businesses who offers different services like hotels, restaurants etc.

The distribution of economic activities in the municipality of Vushtrri

	Economy activities	Nr. of businesses	Percentage
1	Agriculture, hunting, forestry and fishing	58	2.20 %
2	Mining industry	3	0.11 %
3	Manufacturing industry	201	7.61 %
4	Production of electricity, gas, water, steam, hot water and construction	117	4.43 %
5	Wholesale and retail market, technical services	1198	45.36 %
6	Hotels and restaurants	234	8.86 %
7	Transport, warehouse and telecommunication	498	18.86 %
8	Real estate	75	2.84 %
9	Education, healthcare and welfare	116	4.39 %
10	Other social activities	141	5.34 %
Total		2641	100 %

Retail activity is concentrated mainly in the city center, on the roads “Deshmoret e Kombit "and “Skenderbeu", while major markets are scattered on the outskirts of town, on the highway Vushtrri - Prishtina. Hotels, bars, fast foods are mainly concentrated in the centre of the city, respectively in the “Sheshi i lirise” and “Adem Jashari” streets. With the drafting of the Municipal Development Plan (2009 - 2014+), it is provided that both sides of the highway are places where the businesses can be developed at a distance of 100 m. Also with the Municipal Development Plan, it is planned the construction of an industrial area in a place called Lumadh, in an area of 14.86 hectares where 1,600,000 euros will be invested along with donors, to complete infrastructure for the area, which will help to create optimal conditions for conducting business activities especially in the field of manufacturing activity etc.

Business Zones

The Vushtrri municipal assembly, during its session on March 27th 2008 decided to create an Industrial Zone of common interest in the cadastral zones of Banjskë, Tarazhë, Bukosh and Gracë.

1. Taraxhë - pasture land, surface area of 04.84.18 ha;
2. Bukosh - pasture land, surface area of 17.98.87 ha.
3. Gracë - arable land, at the site called “Utrinë”, total surface area of 24.48.70 ha.
4. Banjskë - split in parcels, surface area of 76, 86.60 ha and the rest total area is 10, 65.88 ha.

Vushtrri municipal assembly is also in the process of taking a decision to create a Business Zone in Lumadh village. While the land quality is poor, the surface area is estimated at 14.86 ha, and is owned by the municipality.The designated site for the Business Park is Lumadh-Vushtrri. The project was developed and submitted to the Ministry of Trade and Industry.

The municipality of Vushtrri lies between two regional centers, Prishtina and Mitrovica. This advantage enables an easy access in these two big markets. According to the municipality’s official data, the number of employed people in specific sectors is:

Number of employees in the municipality’s administration

Administration	231
Education	1120
Healthcare and welfare	222
In total	1573

Number of employees in Vushtrria’s businesses

Employees in businesses	1973
Self-employed in private businesses	708
In total	2645
Total Sum	4218

These data for the number of employed people in private businesses came from Tax Administration of Kosovo – Regional Office in Mitrovica. In those data only administration employees are included, while other public institutions, households, hospital, schools, police, prison etc., are not included. The total number of employed people in Vushtrri is approximately 16.000.

Major Employers (Private Companies) in Vushtrri are:

• “VIPA ÇIPS” – Potato products;
• “BERTO” – Furniture manufacturing;
• “EMONA MARKET“-Shopping center;
• “BINI” - Door and windows manufacturing etc;
• “ETC” – Shopping center;
• “AGRO VINI” – Potato producer/exporter, and machinery sales;
• “STANDARD” – Production of glue and paints etc;
• “ALBED” – Furniture manufacturing;
• “MOLITORIA” – Flour mill;
• “LLAMKOS” - Metal sheets manufacturing;
• “KOTEX” - Underwear manufacturing;
• “ARIANI” – Construction company;
• “ZARIQI/DIJARI” – Construction company;
• “PRETENI” - Doors and windows manufacturing;

BINNI
Binni is one of the first companies in Kosovo in the field of services and products for doors, windows and other products in mobilizer, since 1989. The history of Binni is a success story and development service of comfortable facilities, implementation of creative ideas of taste and sophistication. Binni is among the companies with the most complete staff. The staff consists of 70 persons trained with the highest expertise relevant to the job. This is made possible with the continuous local and international training. Binni cooperates with powerful brands and popular companies in domestic and international market: Profine KBE, Vodego, Di Mauro, Renner, KFV etc.

BERTO
Ciao berto enterprise deals with design,projection and production of the equipment and elements of hotels, apartments,working environments and kindergartens. Berto offers kitchen furniture of various forms and measures, living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, interior designs, furniture, etc. Partners : Magniflex, Aaldora, etc.

Llamkos GalvaSteel
Is located in Kosovo, which has the 5th largest coal reserves in the world and other natural reserves. The abundant mineral deposits in the region include lead and zinc. The latter is the main raw material to the galvanizing process. Core Group has successfully acquired Llamkos GalvaSteel in July 2011 through the Privatization Agency of Kosovo (PAK). The process was one of Kosovo’s most important privatizations to date. Core Group is an International Metal and Mining company approved by the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre Authority with offices and agents in strategic locations throughout the Balkans and the rest of the world. Llamkos GalvaSteel has strong management capabilities and their core values focus around “Partnership” with stakeholders (emphasis on investors, customers, suppliers and employees), as well as “Growth” and “Integrity”. Llamkos GalvaSteel plant is one of Core Group’s main assets. Llamkos GalvaSteel is renowned for its high quality raw materials, innovative technology as well as highly experienced, skilled and qualified workforce. This enables it to offer the highest quality products at the lowest price and therefore become the leading galvanized steel producer in the region. Llamkos GalvaSteel has a capacity of 150,000 mts of semi/finished galvanized steel products per annum. It benefits from its strong and well equipped in-house service center.

KOTEX
KOTEX is among the newest textile factory in the Republic of Kosovo. Its founders and the team, the experience for more then 30 years in textile industry make Kotex a successful company. Kosova Textile Company was established on 03.09.2010 in Vushtrri, Republic of Kosovo. The objective of the agreement between Turkish and Kosovar investors is to emulate "POLET" Textile Factory which existed previously in the Vushtrri. Factory "KOTEX" started working with 12 employees, now this company employs 32 workers. "KOTEX" is in contacts with the well-known firms of Europe for placement its products abroad. In the beginning Kotex has started producing only underwear, pajamas and uniforms. Kotex intends to export its productions to the Kosovo's neighboring countries such as in: Albania, Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro and Serbia. This factory will also expand its export to the Europe in the future.

ZARIQI/DIJARI
N.N.T.DIJARI is a local company that deals with various activities such as: Design, High Construction, Engineering, Real Estate, Employment and Export-Import. N.N.T.DIJARI after a long experience in construction makes the construction of residential-business in system 'keys in the hand' dedicated for the market.

Agriculture

One of the main economic activities in Vushtrri is agriculture. The most cultivated crops are potato, wheat, corn, vegetables and forage crops. These recent years orchards with apple, plum, pear are expanding more and more. Vushtrri is the biggest producer of potato in Kosovo. Tradition, qualitative seeds imported from Netherlands, advanced technology and water system from “Iber-Lepenc” company, are the main factors that Vushtrria’s farmers keep producing potato achieving high yields nearly in the average of European production level. In 2013, 1300 ha of plants were cultivated with potatoes, with average of 30 tons per ha. This means over 39.000 tons of potatoes were produced in 2013. The best farmers of the city achieve to produce up to 60 tons per ha and in some cases even more. Biggest companies that cultivate this crop are: Pestova, Agro Vini and Unikorsum. ‘Pestova’ as a private company was established in 1991 and was reregistered in 1999. Since January 2008, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is co-shareholder in Pestova. Business activities of Pestova are: Import, production and sale of seed potato; Selling mechanism, agricultural inputs; Production and sale of fresh potato; Potato Processing into Chips and other products such as Fries, Flips and Snacks. European Commission supports Pestova since 2001. USAID and Kingdom of the Netherlands give their important support as well since 2003, respectively 2008. Farmers of this area are also well-known for livestock production including cattle, sheep, poultry etc.

Area cultivated with crops (2010)

Total number of households	Wheat	Maize	Potatoes	Peppers
	Ha	Ha	Ha	Ha
11,866	2,319.63	1,434.45	678.22	43.67

Total area of available land utilized by the household

Total number of households	Arable land (annual crops)	Greenhouses	Meadows (clover, mixed grass, Lucerne	Orchards	Vineyards	Fallow	Pasture	Forests	Other
	Ha	Ha	Ha	Ha	Ha	Ha	Ha	Ha	Ha
11,866	4,214.31	129.91	2,379.14	198.04	137.66	956.99	714.12	1,631.13	1,083.36

The municipality of Vushtrri possesses nearly 600 ha of arable land, meadows and pastures, as a municipality property. There are 16.954 ha of arable land and 13.664 ha of forests in the territory of Vushtrri. Agribusiness in the city is developed almost in general by the private sector.

Investments

Vushtrri continues to be financed mostly by government transfers which will be approximately 87% of the total budget of municipality in the next three years. The government grant dedicated to municipality of Vushtrri, has been increased by 21% from 2013 to 2014. It is predicted that this grant will be raised by 3.5% each year, in the coming years. The education grant for 2014 is decreased by 2.66% comparing to the past year, while the health grant for 2014 is planned to be nearly 1.546.181 euro, which amount will be enough for basic health expenses, but it doesn't fulfill all the needs. The specific health grant for 2014-2016, it is planned to have an increase nearly 9%. Own source revenues of municipality has decreased from 2011 to 2012. The annual decrease rate was about 7.18%. According to the developing plan, during 2014-2016 it is expected that own source revenues will increase approximately 3.66%.

Capital Investments Plan

Vushtrri has closed the so-called emergency phase investments to open a new chapter, that of investment for development. Past investments during the post-war period have enhanced the quality of life for citizens and built infrastructure necessary for creating a favorable business environment. In the last four years 186,547 meters or roads were asphalted, 77 roads, covering a distance of 21,733 meters, were paved; a sewage network of 40,389 meters and a water network of 86,414 meters were constructed. Further, 22 bridges were built; 75 school buildings were built or renovated; 29 medical clinics and many other investment projects were implemented. To summarize, over the past few years 600 capital investment projects, totaling €45,319,662 were implemented.

The municipality has planned significant amounts of money to spend in capital investments in the next years. These investments will take place in building inter-municipal roads, water supply and sanitation infrastructure. Vushtrri has 303.45 km of roads, in which 87.49% of them are asphalted. From 11.866 of households, only 8846 of them have access in sanitation infrastructure. In the period from 2014 to 2016 it is planned the building of four new schools and the reconstruction of those build years ago.

Well-being of households

KMS 2012 data show that the percentage of households of Vushtrri that cannot afford basic goods and services is lower than Kosovo’s average, implying that the aforementioned enjoy slightly better standards of living. Fifteen percent compared to Kosovo’s average of 20% cannot afford a meal with meat once per week, 30% compared to Kosovo’s average of 42% cannot afford to pay for public utilities, 24% compared to Kosovo’s average of 34% are unable to cover the expenses of treating a flu or any other minor illness, 37% compared to Kosovo’s average of 49% cannot afford to buy new clothes and footwear whenever necessary, 67% compared to Kosovo’s average of 71% cannot afford to go to a restaurant once a month, and 74% compared to Kosovo’s average of 76% cannot afford to pay for a week’s holiday away from home once a year. A similar percentage to Kosovo’s average (36% of households) cannot afford to invite family or friends for a meal at least once a month.

Employment and unemployment rate

Similar to the rest of the municipalities in Kosovo, unemployment is considered to be the biggest problem in Vushtrri by 47% of its residents. Poor water supply is ranked the biggest problem by 17%, whereas poor electricity supply by 13%. The share of employed adults (aged 18-64) in Vushtrri (29%) is equal to Kosovo’s average. While the percentage of unemployed is 22%, the share of those who are outside the labor market (49%) as they are either unemployed and not looking for work (4%), or are studying, disabled, housewives, or have retired is slightly higher than Kosovo’s average of 45%.The majority of adult women residing in Vushtrri (77%) are outside the labor market compared to men (29%). A notably lower share of them are employed compared to men, 11% compared to 42%.

Education

Secondary School SHMU2

Vushtrria's Kindergarten

The first Albanian school in Vushtrri was opened in the fall of 1915. “Besa Kombetare” Club, leaded by Hasan Prishtina and Bajram Curri, sends Abdullah Hadri from Gjakova to open the first Albanian school in Vushtrri. Abdullah Hadri was a known intellectual man, who became the principal of the Albanian school in Vushtrri. In the beginning, only male classes were included in the school. More than 260 boys were registered. With the great contribution of Hasan Prishtina, the school opened the doors for the girls’ education as well. 25 girls were the first ones to be a part of the classes. Emin Efendi Hoti became the first teacher of the school. High School of Economics was opened in 21.06.1961, to fulfill the needs for professional staff of financial and accounting work. The gymnasium in Vushtrri opened in 1963/1964. In the year of 1983, the first kindergarten of the city was established. This institution included children of 1 up to 6 years. Its first principal was Feride Hyseni. The total number of poisoned students of primary and high schools of Vushtrri, by the Serbian authorities in the year of 1991, was 353. The Kosova War of 1999 left a lot of material damages and casualties in the education sector as well. From 20 primary schools in the municipality, 10 of them were completely burned and destroyed, while the others have had massive damages

Education today

Primary School "Mustafe Venhari"

Nowadays, the kindergarten has 166 children. Preschools education is organized in preschools classes (children aged 5-6) within the primary schools, on purpose to get the children ready for continuing the school. Number of children in preschools education in Vushtrri is 489. There are 47 primary schools( classes from 1-5) and secondary schools (classes from 6-9) in the municipality of Vushtrri. Organized in 548 classes, there are 12209 students who go to these schools. The number of educative personnel in this category is 852, from which 661 of them are teachers. There are 3 high schools in Vushtrri, with 4223 students on them. In these schools, there are 201 teachers. The total number of students in Vushtrri is 17087. In Vushtrri, within the Kosovo Academy for Public Safety, in October of 2014 will start its work the Faculty of Public Safety. In its first academic year, this Faculty will accept 65 students from all over Kosovo. The adult residents (aged 18 or older) of Vushtrri have a slightly higher education attainment than Kosovo’s average. 5671 people have no completed education, 9447 have completed primary education, 18369 have completed lower secondary education, 20049 have completed high school, 1134 have completed vocational education, 2405 have a university degree, 242 have a post graduate degree, and 29 people have a doctorate PhD. Adult women residing in this municipality have a lower education attainment than men. Five percent compared to 1% of men have no formal education. In terms of the highest education level attained, 32% of women compared to 15% of men have completes primary education, 47% compared to 67% of men have completed secondary education, and 5% compared to 9% of men have a university degree.

Health

The largest hospital in Vushtrri is “Sheikh Zayed” Hospital, which was reconstructed by the initiative of United Arabian Emirates, who financially helped the improvement of the building and financed the buying of the new equipment and appliances. The reconstruction started in 17.12.2001. This hospital treats patients from Vushtrri and the region.
The hospital provides services in these sectors: emergency, stomatology, vaccination, diagnostics, pharmacy and others. In the municipality of Vushtrri there are also 8 other Family Health Centers in the villages and 8 Health Clinics.

Culture

Vushtrri is an economic, educational, cultural and sports center. The municipality invested largely in improving the quality of life for citizens, and as a result, there are many municipality organized activities and entertainment in the city and the surrounding areas.

Religion

The Ottoman Invasion in the 14th century, converted the Albanian population into Muslims. Besides cultural monuments, Vushtrria has a lot of mosques left as a heritage from the Ottoman times. Nowadays, according to Kosovo Agency of Statistics, the biggest religions in Vushtrri are: Islamic, Orthodox and Catholic. According to 2011 Census, these are the statistics of division of the population by religion:

The prayers during Eid Mubarak in Vushtrri

• Islamic 69.359 people
• Orthodox 386 people
• Catholic 15 people
• Others 100 people

The most ancient mosques are:

• Xhamia e Gazi Ali Beg – build in 1410 near the Public Bath (Hammam), this mosque is one of the oldest ones in Kosovo. Destroyed during the war, this mosque was rebuilt, financed by the donors.
• Xhamia Karamanli – was built in 1675 from Ogullar family. Reconstructed after the war with the help of donors because it was ruined by the Serbian army.
• Xhamia e Ҫarshise – build in 1878, in the centre of the city. During the war of Kosovo, the Serbian army destroyed it. After the war, with the initiative of United Arabian Emirates, this mosque was reconstructed. Now it is called “Sheikh Zayed” Mosque.

Except for the mosques, in Vushtrri there’s another object from Islamic tradition called Tyrbe. It is located in the city’s park and it is believed that was built nearly 200 years ago. Its shape is octagonal, and in the inside there are 6 tombs of the people who had military functions. Near the park of the city, it is located the Serb Orthodox Church of St. Elijah. The church was built in 1834 in the eastern part of the city of Vushtrri where previously had existed an old Serb medieval church.

Xhamia e Ҫarshise

Xhamia Gazi Ali Beg Gazi Ali Beg Mosque

Karamanli Mosque

Traditional development of music

Former building of Archive of History

The traditional creations of folk music, dances and a significant number of traditional instruments, for centuries have been conserved with fanaticism. Years ago, in the villages of Vushtrri, were developed different kinds of music, especially ballads and legendary epic songs. Years later, the love songs, weddings songs and others started to grow. Traditional instruments that have been preserved and played until now are: lahuta, gajdja, fyelli, kavalli and defi. The most popular ones are ҫiftelia and sharkia.

During 1915-1918, with the impact of Hasan Prishtina, it was established the “First musical band” and “First association of culture and art”, which had also the section of act, music and reciters.

After the World War II, the first association of culture and art was called “Rashid Deda”, which later was renamed “Hasan Prishtina”. This association was rewarded the second place in the international event “Kacaniku 2000”. The most popular members of this association were: Ali Kufa, Azize Topojani, Shemsedin Drejta, Selvete Terstena, Xhevat Korllaku etc.

“Hasan Prishtina” House of Culture was build in 1970. It had a great importance in the promotion of cultural life in Vushtrri. The House of Culture started its work in the these sections: traditional orchestra, dancers and entertainment orchestra.

Archive of History – was established in 03.03.1968 and it still continues its work as an independent institution.

Festivals

There is a wide range of annual activities either organized or supported by the municipality. These include:

• Gatherings of Albanian Poetesses (24-28 May) – attended by all female poets throughout the Albanian territories. This event started in 1973. In its first years of activity, it was held in the honor of 8th of March – International Women Day. Female students of high schools were the only ones to participate. In 1985 the total number of participants was 53. After the war of Kosovo, this event starts gathering poetesses from all over the Albanian territories and diaspora. The most successful poetesses during years were: Miradie Ramiqi, Fehime Selimi, Xheraldina Buqinca, Hadije Jakupi, Rrezarta Duraku, Afroviti Gusho, Meri Lalaj etc. This event takes place during 24-28 of May in the House of Culture, a tradition continuing still, and it is supported by the municipality of Vushtrri.
• Potato Day (1-10 October) is a traditional event held each year in the municipality of Vushtrri, where people from different places participate. Intellectuals, businessmen, government, facilitators from governments of different countries-ambassadors, media and other relevant people counterparts in this event.
• Regional Fair of Local Products - Local producers participate and have the opportunity to meet each other, cooperate and enhance their markets.
• Honey Day Fair - Organized in cooperation with the Beekeepers’ Association “ËMA”.

• The Independence March – young people of Vushtrri march through the city, the purpose of which is to remember the sacrifices of Kosovan people through the years, and to celebrate the Independence Day.

• The Schools’ Fair – organized by the municipality, NGOs, and schools itself, this fair promotes the skills and achievements of the students of all schools of Vushtrri.

Places to visit

If you want to visit Vushtrri, besides the cultural monuments that should be visited, here is a list where to spend your time, places where you can sleep, eat and have fun.

• Hiking in the Qyqavica Mountains – a tour from which you can see the whole city of Vushtrri.
• Tea Shops (Kafe-Ҫajtoret) – the tradition of drinking black tea, makes Vushtrri the best place in Kosovo to try it. When you visit the city, you’ll have the chance to see a lot of tea shops, where you can try a cup or two of this fresh famous tea.
• Kebap Shops (Qebaptoret) – the best places to eat in Vushtrri, are the well-known Kebap Shops, left from the ottoman traditions. They all make very delicious kebaps and some other barbeque dishes.
• Tinsmith workplaces - located near the Old Public Bath (Hammam), the tinsmiths continued the old tradition of making differenct objects and accessories. Some of them are professionals in this craft for generations. You can buy any of their creations for really low prices.
• Vushtrria’s Bazaar on Fridays – every Friday is the bazaar day in Vushtrri. People from all over the villages come to the market located in the suburb of the city and shop about food and other things.
• Bars – the best place where you can hang out with friends and drink coffee. In these places you can feel Vushtrria’s youth positive energy. Some of these bars offer great music during nights. Most of them are located in the well-known bar’s street in Vushtrri.
• Restaurants – You can have a great time if you visit “Trofta e lumit” Restaurant, in the village of Sllakovc, located in a very panoramic landscape. Near the historical monument The Stone Bridge, is “Ura e Vjeter e Gurit” Restaurant, which offers a great view of this monument. You can also visit “Ҫameria” and “Pishat” Restaurants.
• Hotels – the most visited hotels in Vushtrri are: “Ura e Gurit” located in Maxhunaj, near the Prishtina-Mitrovica highway; “Kalaja” hotel, is placed in the entrance of the city.

Tinsmith workplace

One of the oldest Tea/Coffee shops

Kebap Shop

Tinsmith workplace

Sport

Ultras "Forca" supporting Llamkos Kosova FC

Hall of Sports "Jeton Terstena-TOTA"

The most organized and successful sports in Vushtrri are: football, handball, basketball, volleyball, ping-pong, chess, judo etc. The municipality now for a long time has given to Kosova’s sports a big number of qualitative sport athletes and teams, which represented Kosova in the international competitions in decent way. A huge support for every sport competition is given by Vushtrri’s residents, especially by the organized group of fans, called Ultras “Forca”. “Forca” is known in the entire country as one of the most dedicated and committed ultras to Vushtrria’s sport. This group of fans was established in the year of 1993 and since then they never stopped supporting every club in Vushtrri. This continuous support led them to their life motto “S’ka mu nal” (Never quit). In these days there are nearly 500 active members of this ultras, led by Samir Asllani. They show up in every football match of “Kosova” FC, handball and basketball matches, and give their enthusiastic performances and urge the teams to go for the best.

Football

F.C. Kosova Vushtrri is founded in 1922. At that time the Football Federation did not exist so the team had to play friendly matches with other teams. After the end of Second World War, the team became the member of the Football Federation where its challenges to play in Kosovar League started. In June 2012 after constant negotiations between the team and Llamkos GalvaSteel Company the successful acquisition of F.C. Kosova Vushtrri was done established by the name F.C. Llamkos Kosova. The club plays the matches in “Ferki Aliu” Stadium, placed in the south of Vushtrri with a capacity of nearly 5000 seats. The most successful players to come out of this club are Ahmed Januzi who’s currently playing for FC Vorskla Poltava in Ukrainian Premier League, and Armend Dallku who plays as a central defender for the same club as Januzi. Llamkos Kosova FC is currently in the first position in Raiffeisen Super League of Kosovo, led by its coach Ismet Munishi.

Handball

Handball Club “Kosova e Vushtrrise” was established in 1953/1954 by Fahri Buqinca. The biggest success of this club was competing in the Federative Second Division of former Yugoslavia, with Tefik Mikushnica as their coach. The best players of this club were: Jeton Terstena, Agron Shabani, Jakup Gergjaliu, Fazli Jetullahu etj. In the year of 1960 was established the handball women team KH “Kosova”.

Except “Kosova e Vushtrrise” Club, in 1974 in the village of Samadrexha was formed another male handball team called “Samadrexha”. Later, this club established the women team KH “Vicianet”. Both female and male handball teams from Vushtrri, participated in European competitions, and all of them are competing in the Super League of Kosova, while the female team of “Vushtrri” is the leader of Women Handball Super League.

Basketball

This sport first began in the year of 1955 when Fahri Buqinca brought the first basketball rims and nets. The basketball team “Llamkos” was established in 1955 by Fetah Rashica, but was only registered as a club in the Kosovo Basketball Federation in 1981. Except the senior team, there also was the junior team and the basketball school within the club. In 1987 this club reaches the final of Kosovo Super Cup. The most successful basketball player that this club gave was Ferit Zekolli who played for different basketball clubs in Kosovo, Croatia, Serbia etc. Other players worth mentioning are Bashkim Maloku, Burim Bivolaku, Muje Ademi, Bajram Badivuku, Bekim Bivolaku, Fatmir Rashica etc. Nowadays, the basketball male team is in the Second Division of Basketball (Liga e Pare).

Other sports

• Volleyball - was first introduced in 1946, while the first male club was formed in 1952, participating years later successfully in former Yugoslavia competitions. Qani Kaleci, Ahmet Cecelia, Raif Dallku, Xhelal Pantina, Haki Mavriqi were the most famous players of the club. Nowadays, volleyball male team “As Vushtrria” and female team “Kosova” participate and compete in First League of Volleyball in Kosovo.
• Ping Pong club “Hasan Prishtina” is one of the oldest clubs in the municipality of Vushtrri, which was founded in 1950 by Fahri Buqinca and Sakine Maxhuni. In 1961, Sakine Maxhuni as a representative of Vushtrri took the first place and became Kosovo ping pong champion. She was the first person to win a championship title in national level in any sports in Vushtrri. Xhemajl Cecelia contributed as an active player since 1960 and later became the coach of this club. In women competitions, Xhevahire Asllani was twice a runner in Kosovo’s ping pong championship.
• Chess – was one of the most famous sports in Vushtrri. Ramadan Ajvazi, Muje Ferati, Hysen Hyseni, Blerim Zabergja and Ragip Mikushnica were the first known chess masters in Vushtrri, also representing Kosovo in international chess competitions.

Sport facilities

• “Ferki Aliu” Stadium - was build in . It is located in the south part of the city. It is currently used mostly for football matches and is the home ground of KF “Llamkos Kosova” of the Kosovo Football Super League. Its capacity is approximately 5000 seats. Its infrastructure will be improved after announced investments by Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport of Kosovo.
• “Jeton Terstena – TOTA” Sport Hall – started building in 1983. The reconstructions of the building took place in 2003. It is a very modern hall used for handball, basketball, volleyball, judo, ping-pong, boxing etc, and other activities such as concerts, exhibitions, fairs and other indoor events.
• "Stadiumi i Gumes" – build in concrete, this stadium was used long time before the sports hall was build. Positioned near the park of the city, this stadium firstly was used for handball matches and later for futsal competitions.

Notable people

Important personalities

• Hasan Prishtina

Originally known as Hasan Berisha, was born in 1873 in Vushtrri. Graduated in Faculty of Law, respectively in the Faculty of Political Science in Istanbul. He was elected a PM of Ottoman Empire, from the Sanjak of Prishtina, where he defended Albanian national rights. The main activist of the Albanian rebellion in 1912. Helped financially many students by sending them to the high school of Elbasan. He sent more than 50 students from Vushtrri to study agriculture in Hungary. The initiator of the establishment of the first Albanian school in Vushtri and in many other Albanian territories. Hasan Prishtina was the chairman of the Kosovo delegation at the Peace Conference at Versailles. He was elected prime minister of Albania, on 7 December 1921 but resigned after four days after political pressures. The most influential intellectual man of the time, he was one of the biggest supporters of the idea for the unification of Albanian territories. Opponent of Serbian occupation and the regime of King Zog. Hasan Prishtina was killed in Thessaloniki, Greece, in 14 of August 1933, by an Albanian assassin payed by Ahmet Zogu.

• Azem Bejta

Azem Bejta was born in 10.06.1889 in the village of Galica. He was a part of rebellions against Serbian occupation, led by Ahmet Delia (1910-1912). He was among the main organizers against Austro-Hungarias occupation. He cooperated closely with Hasan Prishtina. Was a member of the National Defense Committee of Kosovo. During 1921-23, he fought for the protection of neutral zone of Junik. Died in July 26, 1924.

• Shote Galica (Qerime Halil Radisheva)

Born in 1895, she married Azem Bejta in 1915. In July of 1924, she fought along with her husband for the protection of Drenica. Known for its militant and patriotic activity, she was one of the first active women to fight for the freedom of the homeland.

• Mustafe Venhari

Born on March 6th 1922, in Krasaliq, village near Qyqavica mountains. He was a teacher and professor of maths and physics. Venhari was a remarkable patriot of the national issue of Kosovo.

• Lutfi Musiqi

Lutfi Musiqi was born in 18 December of 1968 in Vushtrri, the city where he completed primary and secondary education. He graduated with a Bachelor Degree in the University of Prishtina, the Faculty of Electronics and Engineering. In 1996 he started the post graduate studies in the University of Manchester, England. One year later he graduates with a Master Degree in Electronics and Engineering, in University of Manchester. Worked as a system engineer in the English company TCI. Thanks to his scientific abilities, in a short time he was promoted in managerial positions in this company. During the war of Kosovo in 1999, he joins the ranks of the Kosovo Liberation Army to fight against Serbian occupation. He died heroically in the Koshare Battle, near Prizren, on 30 April 1999, in the holy duty for Kosovo’s freedom.

• Jeton Terstena - TOTA

He was a great handball player of the first handball generation in Vushtrri. Played for many years in Vushtrria’s Handball Male Club. During the 90's, when Kosovo was in war, Jeton Terstena became a part of Kosovo Liberation Army. In 06.08.1998, he died heroically in the Battle of Artakoll in Vushtrri.

• Ali Jakupi

Was born in 1943, in Shale, Vushtrri. Specialized in marketing in Zagreb, Croatia, he was a professor in University of Pristina. He was minister of trade and industry, in the government of Kosovo on 2002. He died in 2013.

• Hajzer Krasniqi

Born in 1938, in Begaj village of Vushtrri. Graduated in University of Prishtina, Department of Albanian Language and Literature. He was one of the most influential men who established the Kosovo Democratic League, branch in Vushtrri. He was a professor in Mitrovica high school, and in the medical school in Mitrovica.

• Bedri Tahiri

He was born in the village of Galica in 1956. Graduated in University of Prishtina, Department of Albanian Language and Literature. Now he is a professor in “Eqrem Cabej” high school in Vushtrri. Has over 13 published works, the most prominent are: “Azem Bejte Galica”, “Adem Jashari – Legjende e legjendave”, “Hasan Prishtina – Truri i Levizjes Kombetare Shqipetare” etc.

• Rahim Ademi

Born and raised in the village of Karaqa, Vushtrri. Ademi finished the Yugoslav military academy in Belgrade in 1976. When the war in Croatia was starting he deserted the Yugoslav People's Army in order to help create Croatian army formations in that part of the country. Ademi later served as a sub commander of the Split military district and was promoted to brigadier general for his achievements in Operation Storm in 1995.

• Ahmet Shala

Ahmet was born on 27 March 1961 in Okrashtica, Vushtrri. He has served as Minister of Economy and Finance of the Republic of Kosovo in the period 2008/2011. Currently, since beginning of October 2012, he has been appointed as an Ambassador of the Republic of Kosovo to Japan.

• Emin Efendi Hoti

He finished his education in the high school of Elbasan. Known as the first teacher of the first Albanian school in Vushtrri, established in 1915.

• Feride Hyseni

The first director of the kindergarten in Vushtrri, who started its work in 1983. Elected as a PM in the legislation of 90s in which Kosova approved the first constitution of the Republic, she is a great humanist and currently working as the Secretary General of Red Cross of Kosova.

• Shaban Merovci

Born in April 1935, in Doberlluke (Rrafshmir), Vushtrri. He finished Medical studies in 1964, when he also started working as the first doctor in Vushtrri municipality. He specialized in neuropsychiatry in 1976, in University of Zagreb, Croatia. Dr.Merovci died in 2011.

• Safet Rexha

Born in Vushtrri, he was the first specialized dentist in the municipality of Vushtrri.

Entertainment

• Shemsedin Smakolli, Merxhan Sholla and Shyqyri Pllana

They were the first art professors in Vushtrri municipality, giving a great contribution to Vushtrria’s art by making lots of notable artistic works.

• Nesim Spahiu

Born in 1935 in Vushtrri, where he finished primary and high school too. He is the first photographer in Vushtrri municipality. He also published a book with poems named “Mbreteria e Arte” (Golden Kingdom), in 1996.

• Selvete Terstena

Famous singer in Kosova. Member of cultural association “Hasan Prishtina” in Vushtrri.

• Hazir Myftari

Born in 1947, in Vushtrri. Famous Kosovar actor, who played in different movies made in Kosovo, like: Tre vete kapercejne malin; Era dhe Lisi; Trimi etc.

• Abdurrahman Shala

Born in 1922, he was an actor, producer and screenwriter in the first generation of Kosovan cinematography. He was the director of the first movie studio of Kosovo, called Kosovafilm. Known for starring in famous Kosovan movies such as: “Njeriu prej dheu”, “Proka”, “Era e Lisi”, “Para shiut” etc. Shala died in March 1994 in Prishtina.

Sportspeople

• Isa Sadriu

Born in 1963, he was a famous footballer and coach. He started his career in CF “Trepça” in Mitrovica, from where he was transferred in CF “Partizan” of Belgrade, winning two champion titles in yugoslavian football league. He continued his career in the football league of Germany, playing for a few clubs. Isa Sadriu coached the Vushtrria football club CF “Kosova” for a season.

• Ferid Zekolli

Born in Maxhunaj, a village in Vushtrri municipality, he is known as one of the best basketball players in Kosovo. He played for different teams in Kosovo, Croatia, Serbia etc.

• Armend Dallku

Dallku is a Vushtrrian football player, and usually plays on defence. He started his career at the local club, and after that he went to FC Prishtina where he won the Kosovan League Title. After FC Prishtina he played for SK Elbasani in Albania, and now for 10 years, he has been playing for the Ukrainian side Vorskla Poltava and he is also the captain of the first team. On the international level, he’s had 64 appearances for Albanian National Team.

• Ahmed Januzi

Born in Vushtrri (1988), he is considered as one of the biggest talents of vushtrrian football. When he was 19 years old, he was transferred in the Albanian team Besa Kavajë, and after that he continued playing for Vorskla Poltava, football team from Ukraine, where he still plays. He also played for Albanian National Team.

• Samir Ujkani

Ujkani was born in the Reznik village, municipality of Vushtrri, in 1988. He played for different football clubs like Anderlecht, Novara and now Palermo. He is the first goalkeeper of Kosovo’s National Football Team.

• Shefki Kuqi

Born in Vushtrri, he is one of the most famous football players of Vushtrri. He started his football career in the local club Kosova e Vushtrrise (now Llamkos Kosova). After moving to Finland, with his parents, because of the war in Kosovo, Kuqi continued playing football and made it to the finnish national football team. After few years of play, he transferred in England where he played for teams like: Ipswich Town, Fulham, Blackburn Rovers, Newcastle United etc.

• Njazi Kuqi

He has also born in Vushtrri, in 1983. A great footballer, and the little brother of Shefki Kuqi. He started his career in the Finnish club FC Lahti, and also played for different international football clubs, such as: Birmingham City, Blackpool, Koblenz, Panionios. Kuqi also had 12 appearances for the Finnish National Team.

• Shqipe Tahiri

Tahiri was born on March 5th 1987. She is one of the best handball players in Kosovo. She played for the local team, in which she won the Kosovan Handball League in 2009. Shqipe now plays for HC Kastrioti (a handball team from Ferizaj, Kosovo), in which also was crowned as the league champion. She also played for both teams in european handball competitions.

• Labinot Osmani

Is one of the best football players of Vushtrria’s football club Llamkos Kosova. He played for KF Hysi, in wich team he was crowned as champion of Kosovan Football League in the 2008/09 season, and also won the League Cup in the 2010/11 season. Osmani was born on July 15th 1985 in the city of Vushtrri.

Bibliography

• Vushtrria - Viciana me rrethine, Vushtrri 2003
• Noel Malcolm, KOSOVO A short story, 1998, London
• Fejaz Drancolli, Monumental Heritage in Kosova, 2011, Prishtine
• Evlyia Celebi, Shqiperia 350 vjet me pare

Category: Geography of Kosovo Category: Buildings and structures in Kosovo Category: Sport in Kosovo