Redefining the Identity of Finiq: A Systemic Approach to Urban Resilience and Sustainable Development

This paper will discuss the challenges and potential of the Municipality of Finiq, a region in southern Albania rich in natural, historical, and cultural features; at the same time, however, facing severe degradation and loss of identity. Drawing inspiration from the myth of the Phoeniciae, this study introduces the concept "Re-Invention," which symbolizes the desire of this municipality to reconstruct itself by way of transformation. This would be described as an interrelated population decline, isolation, and a lack of spatial hierarchy that characterizes the Finiq community and its surrounding settlements. Amongst these, the key problems iden- tified are the abandonment of residential structures and poor quality public spaces, which are contributing to an unstructured spatial configuration of this area. In this paper, a methodology for revitalizing these public spaces is presented by re-identifying and amplifying the hidden identity of Finiq Municipality. It includes an approach based on the integration of local tradi- tions, realizing immediate needs of the community in which one lives, so as to create a new sense of place and cohesion. This research delivers a framework for sustainable development that may contrast the continuous decline of recovering at least part of the historical and cul- tural importance of the area by unveiling its hidden identity.