Renowned Albanian director Piro Milkani has died at the age of 86. The news was announced by his family.
"My father, friend and colleague is gone," Eno Milkani, the son of director Piro, wrote on social media.
Milkani is considered one of the most prominent figures in Albanian cinematography.
Born on January 5, 1939 in Drenova, Korça, Milkani was one of the first filmmakers of Albanian cinematography.
His films like "Contemplation on Death", "The Happy Couple", "The Lady from the City" became part of the Albanian cultural identity.
After graduating from high school in his hometown, he continued his studies at the Academy of Fine Arts in Prague, Czechoslovakia, where he graduated as a film operator.
During his studies, he made his diploma film, Nenavist (Ingratitude), which marked the beginning of a successful career in cinematography. After returning to Albania, Milkani began working at the “Shqipëria e Re” Film Studio as a cameraman and then as a director, where he made over 20 feature films.
For his extraordinary contribution to Albanian cinematography, Milkani has also received numerous awards, including the title of "People's Artist" (1987) and the "Ambassador of Albanian Film" medal from the Ministry of Culture of Albania.
The State Film Archive in Albania has written that the loss of Milkan is a great wound for Albanian culture.
The Minister of Culture, Blendi Gonxhnja, has described Milkan as an asset to Albanian cinematography.
"Piro Milkani will remain among us forever with the many films he has made! Rest in peace, master," he wrote.
