# Arbëresh cultural ties between Italy and the Balkans > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/arbresh-cultural-ties-between-italy-and-the-balkans > Updated: 2026-09-11T08:28:34.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2. Albanian President Bajram Begaj visited the Arbëresh community in San Marzano di San Giuseppe, Italy, to honor their cultural heritage. During the visit, Begaj laid a wreath at a bust of Gjergj Kastrioti Skënderbeu and praised the community for preserving their language and traditions while integrating into Italian society, describing them as a “vital bridge” between Albania and Italy. Subsequent cultural initiatives have furthered these connections through art, music, and educational exchanges. Projects such as “Arbëresh Molise – Scambi culturali Italia-Albania” have hosted Albanian students to focus on linguistic and historical preservation. Additionally, programs involving the association Fili Meridiani APS have facilitated collaborations between Italy, Albania, and Kosovo, utilizing mural art, traditional music, and gastronomy to foster dialogue between Arbëresh and Balkan communities. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-11: Arbëresh cultural initiatives strengthen ties between Italy and the Balkans Arbëresh cultural projects in Italy are fostering international connections with Albania and Kosovo through mural art, student exchanges, and traditional music programs. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/arbresh-cultural-initiatives-strengthen-ties-between-italy-and-the-balkans ### 2026-08-22: President Bajram Begaj visits Arbëresh community in Italy Albanian President Bajram Begaj visited the Arbëresh community in Italy, praising their role as a historical bridge between Albania and Italy and their preservation of cultural heritage. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/president-bajram-begaj-visits-arbresh-community-in-italy --- Cite as: Arbëresh cultural ties between Italy and the Balkans. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/arbresh-cultural-ties-between-italy-and-the-balkans