In the Western Balkans, Kazerma e Cerenit has become the talk of the town. This historical military site in Albania has been transformed into a sustainable agro-tourism business and fine dining restaurant. The mastermind behind this ingenious conversion is owner Ismet Shehu, who has turned this once-secretive military installation into an exceptional dining destination and Albania’s first green agro-tourism business.
Kazerma e Cerenit was established in 1975 as Army Barracks 3700, housing military units of the Ministry of Defence (MoD) of communist Albania. In 1997, the site remained untouched during the country’s political unrest. However, in 2020, the business transformation began, restoring and preserving the identity of each building, including rare military artifacts.
Today, Kazerma e Cerenit offers visitors a unique experience of history, sustainability, and exceptional culinary artistry. It is a prime example of how a site with a dark past can be repurposed to create a brighter, greener future.
Thanks to Shehu’s vision and commitment to sustainability, Kazerma e Cerenit has become the first green agro-tourism business in Albania’s Western Balkans. The site utilizes renewable energy, with solar panels installed throughout. This not only highlights Albania’s focus on eco-tourism but also underscores its commitment to reducing its carbon footprint.
In addition, Kazerma e Cerenit offers visitors a menu of locally-sourced, fresh ingredients that pay homage to Albania’s culinary heritage. The restaurant’s reputation as a top dining destination has spread far and wide, attracting tourists from all over the world. By preserving the history of the Barracks and contributing to the growth of Albania’s culinary and eco-tourism industries, Kazerma e Cerenit has become a symbol of innovation, adaptability, and progress.
The success of Kazerma e Cerenit is a testament to the resilience of the Albanian people and their ability to adapt to change. By repurposing a former military installation into a green agro-tourism business and fine dining restaurant, owner Ismet Shehu has not only created a remarkable dining destination but also contributed to Albania’s progress towards a more sustainable future. Kazerma e Cerenit is a must-visit destination for those who appreciate history, culture, and culinary artistry.