In the center of the city, near the foundations of the former Meraya Mosque, just below the green market, lies a historical monument that speaks volumes about the rich past of Ulqin.
Turbehs are usually associated with the burial of important figures of Islamic culture and testify to the historical importance of cultural heritage. The Meraya Mosque itself, built by the Ulqinian captain Ceno Lika in 1779, along with its cemetery, was unfortunately destroyed in 1967 to make way for a bus station. However, the Trubeh has withstood time and urban development, preserving a part of Ulqin’s history.
With dimensions of 4×4 meters, this Turbeh has managed to withstand the period of destruction of the cultural-Islamic heritage. In this Turbeh, there are two graves, whose stones were inscribed in Albanian and Ottoman script, during its restoration. Here lies the grave of the imam of the Meraya Mosque, Molla Adem Ibrahim Pulti, as evidenced in archival documents.
As this area was once a cemetery for part of the city, an older, damaged stone slab was discovered nearby and placed next to the two gravestones as a sign of respect. Graced with a touching message inscribed in Ottoman (translation): “He (Allah) is Living and Eternal. Year 1258 H. The beauty of the world is like the shadow of a dream, but the mind cannot comprehend it. May He have mercy on Ali, son of Fazli, for his soul, Fatiha.” This inscription not only provides a glimpse into the spiritual reflections of the time but also marks the year according to the Islamic Hijri calendar.
In order to restore the Turbeh as professionally as possible, the Pulti family in 2014 turned to the Turkish Development Agency – TIKA, which oversaw its renovation, while the Municipality of Ulqin provided the lighting.
Its preservation and protection are essential for maintaining a link with the past and for educating future generations about this heritage.
