The first issue of the magazine “Drita-Dituria” (“Light-Knowledge”) was published in Istanbul in 1884-1885. This monthly cultural, literary, and educational magazine initially came out under the auspices of Petro Poga, and from issue no. 2 until its conclusion (no. 12), it was published under the auspices of Pandeli Sotiri. Sami Frashëri played a significant role in its success. Starting from issue no. 4 (October 10, 1884), the title was changed to “Dituria” (“Knowledge”). “Dituria” is recognized as one of the first Albanian cultural magazines. It was founded to implement the program of the “Shoqëria e të shtypurit shkronja shqip” (“Albanian Letter Printing Society”) and was published using its (Istanbul) alphabet. The magazine played a crucial role in awakening and promoting patriotic sentiments among Albanians. It disseminated scientific, natural, and socio-cultural knowledge, and in particular, it published writings about Albania, which contributed to the development of the first Albanian textbooks. The pages of “Dituria” featured works and writings from notable figures such as Sami Frashëri, Naim Frashëri, Jani Vreto, and Pandeli Sotiri, among others. The magazine’s contributions were instrumental in fostering a sense of national identity and cultural awareness during a pivotal time in Albanian history.
(In the photo: View from Istanbul, XIX century.)
Text: Albanian encyclopedic dictionary – Vol. 1, Academy of Sciences of Albania, “Kristalina-KH”, Tirana, 2008, page 534-535.
Photo: © https://themedialine.org/mideast-streets/
Graphic processing: AHCF
