A major investment is expected to transform one of Prishtina’s architectural icons, the Palace of Youth and Sports. Ahead of the Mediterranean Games “Prishtina 2030,” an agreement has been reached between the Ministry of Culture and the European Bank for a long-term loan, with an initial value of 50 million euros.

The funds will be used for the complete renovation and revitalization of the approximately 50,000-square-meter complex, which has been in poor condition for years—especially the main hall, which was burned about 20 years ago. The plan aims to restore the building to its former state by regenerating all its facilities, including various sports halls and other spaces.

The Director of the Transformation Department at the Municipality of Prishtina, Gëzim Kastrati, told KosovaPress that the main goal is to return the complex to the functionality it once had.

“The idea is to bring this complex back to the state it once was—that is, to revitalize and regenerate it with all its components, starting with the various sports halls below and the main hall that has been burned for 20 years. I believe we have an obligation as a society and as people of this country to at least restore it to the condition it once had,” Kastrati said.

Speaking about timelines, Kastrati expressed optimism that the design phase could be completed within a relatively short period, while renovation works are not expected to last more than two years.

“As for the project, I believe it should be completed within six months to one year. If we start renovation of the Palace in 2027, I think it does not need to last more than two years. This entire 50,000-square-meter complex was once built by the company ‘Ramiz Sadiku,’ with workers from this city and contributions from Prishtina’s citizens, and it was completed in four years in 1980. Now, in 2026, there is no reason for a complete renovation to take more than two years,” Kastrati added.

On the financial aspect, Kastrati said cooperation has been secured between the Ministry of Culture and the European Bank, through which a 50 million euro loan has been planned.

“The Ministry of Culture has reached cooperation with the European Bank for a 50 million euro loan. Whether this amount will be sufficient or not will be seen after the completion of the project and the procurement procedures that will follow,” Kastrati said.

Referring to the Mediterranean Games, Kastrati emphasized that this event represents much more than a sporting competition for Kosovo. According to him, the Games are a serious test of the country’s organizational capacities and institutional cooperation, adding that a dignified presentation is essential for Kosovo’s image in the eyes of Europe.

“I believe the Mediterranean Games are more than just games; they are a national test. Foreigners and Europe will see how we organize ourselves as a society. It would be a great loss if we fail to achieve dignified cooperation and set an example—not only for ourselves but also for others—of how work should be done,” Kastrati said, adding that Albanians have historically been builders across Europe and beyond.

In conclusion, Kastrati stressed that the coming four-year period is the final deadline to demonstrate seriousness and commitment in implementing major projects.

“I think we have the time—this is the final deadline—that over these four years, which I believe are sufficient if we start working seriously now, we can complete these projects and come out with honor, first before our own people and then before the European Committee,” Kastrati said.

The organization of the Mediterranean Games is seen as a “national test” for Kosovo—an opportunity to demonstrate organizational capacity and to advance the development of the necessary sports infrastructure.