The geography of a narrow canyon
The name of the town of Këlcyrë comes from "Klisura", meaning "narrow canyon". Këlcyrë sits in a strategic position between the Trebeshinë and Nemërçkë mountains, near the Vjosa. The gorge was created by the river Vjosë and lies west of the town of Këlcyrë, at approximately 40°17′51″N 20°9′54″E, in Gjirokastër County.
A narrow canyon between two mountain ranges is a place armies fight over to control passage through the terrain. For more on the local geography and historical timeline, see our guide to Këlcyrë Gorge and our history page.
The battle of January 1941
The Italian offensive against Greece began on 28 October 1940. The Greek counteroffensive began on 9 November 1940, shifting the front into the mountainous terrain of southern Albania.
The Capture of Klisura Pass took place 6–11 January 1941, during the Greco-Italian War, in southern Albania. It is described as one of the most important Greek victories of that war. Greek forces involved were the 1st, 11th, and 7th "Cretan" Infantry Divisions. The principal Italian formation opposing them was the 3rd Alpine "Julia" Division.
Military cemetery in the pass
With the restraint appropriate to a war grave, the memory of the fallen is preserved in the landscape. A Greek military cemetery for the fallen is located within the pass.
Frequently asked questions
When did the Capture of Klisura Pass take place?
The Capture of Klisura Pass took place from 6 to 11 January 1941 in southern Albania. It occurred during the Greco-Italian War, following the Greek counteroffensive launched on 9 November 1940.
Which military forces fought in this battle?
Greek forces involved were the 1st, 11th, and 7th "Cretan" Infantry Divisions. The primary Italian formation was the 3rd Alpine "Julia" Division. The engagement is described as one of the most important Greek victories of that war.
Why was Klisura Pass strategically important?
Këlcyrë sits in a strategic position between the Trebeshinë and Nemërçkë mountains near the Vjosa. The name itself derives from "Klisura", meaning "narrow canyon". This natural passage created a geographic choke-point for troop movement.
Is there a military cemetery in the pass today?
Yes, a Greek military cemetery for the fallen is located within the pass. It stands as a quiet site of remembrance for soldiers killed during the 1941 action.