The first epic poem written by a woman, "La Scanderbeide" (1623), by Italian author Margherita Sarrocchi, was officially presented at the National Library of Kosovo "Pjetër Bogdani."
The event was opened by Professor Majlinda Bregasi, a faculty member at the University of Prishtina and director of the Institute of Italian Language and Culture at the university. She was followed by speeches from the Italian Ambassador to Kosovo, Mr. Maurizio Antonini, and the General Director of the National Library of Kosovo, Ms. Blerina Rogova-Gaxha. The Rector of the University of Prishtina, Professor Arben Hajrullahu, also attended the event.
The complete first edition of "La Scanderbeide" was presented by Italian scholar Professor Dr. Olimpia Gargano, who prepared this edition. Professor Gargano is known for her research on how Albania has been portrayed in European culture from the 16th to the 20th century. She is a researcher at Université Côte d’Azur.
In addition, the well-known Italian historian Professor Dr. Giuseppe Gargano introduced the project "Kastriotian Itineraries" in Amalfi. He specializes in medieval history and has written many works on the political, economic, maritime, and urban history of Amalfi. He also collaborates with several Italian and international universities.
The event also included the opening of an exhibition titled "Sing, O Muse, of Bravery" — which explores Albania, Italy, and the Ottoman Empire through the lens of the first European epic poem written by a woman. The exhibition aimed to highlight the shared cultural and historical connections between these neighboring peoples.
This event was organized by the Institute of Italian Language and Culture at the University of Prishtina, the National Library of Kosovo "Pjetër Bogdani," the Italian Embassy in Prishtina, and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of Kosovo.
The great interest in the poem "La Scanderbeide" was also evident during the masterclass held today, in which 70 students from the University of Prishtina participated.