Peja gjatë shekujve XVI, XVII dhe XVIII
Peja during the 16th, 17th and 18th Centuries

Summary/Abstract: Peja was one of the most important cities in Kosovo during the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries. After the Albanian territories were occupied by the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century, the influence of Islamic Ottoman culture began to spread, an occupation which lasted until the first decades of the 20th century. Peja during Ottoman reign was sort of independent, because it was under the administration of the local Begler, which were chosen by mytesarif of Albania. Mahmud Ibrahim from Begolli family was the first Albanian Pasha of the city of Peja. During this period the city of Peja was inhabited by an Albanian population, an ethnic group which was defined by its culture, language, ancient traditions and customs. Since the earliest times the city of Peja was built near the early fortress named today Castle Jarina, but which in 1820 was displaced to another place after a fierce battle between the citizens of Peja and Vezir of Istanbul Rashid Pasha, who demolished the fortress and almost the entire city by canons. Aside from Prizren, Novo Brdo, Trepca and Prishtina, the city of Peja was known as an important consular center since 1415. Peja during the 17th century was economically developed; the local traders attended markets in Dubrovnik and Kotor. The Austro - Ottoman wars during the 17th century, incorporated into the conflict the territory of Peja as well (1683-1690). The period is characterized by the conflict between Begollajve of Peja and Bushatllinjve and Çaushollajve, in their attempts to invade the city of Shkodra, an invasion which lasted nearly half a century. During the years 1782-1784, the city of Peja was struck by the cholera epidemic, which caused many casualties.

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