Kuçova is located in the western part of the Berat Region, on the Myzeqe plain, and lies along the Devoll River. The city has a favorable geographical position, between Lushnja, Berat and Fier, and is connected to main road axes that enable inter-zonal movement and exchanges.
The modern history of Kuçova is closely linked to the oil extraction industry. The discovery of the first oil resources at the beginning of the 20th century and their exploitation during the monarchy and later during the socialist regime transformed Kuçova into an important center of Albanian industrialization. The city was known for its developed industrial infrastructure, such as refineries, fuel depots and processing plants.
Because of this profile, Kuçova is often known as the “oil city”. The city’s architecture reflects the industrial character and urban organization of the 20th century, with straight streets, buildings typical of the socialist period and large public spaces. This urban heritage is today of particular interest for studies of the history of industrial development and the architectural heritage of the socialist system.
Another characteristic of Kuçova is the presence of an important military air base, built during the Kingdom and later used by the communist regime, which served as one of the most strategic bases of Albanian military aviation.
Although with an identity built on industry, the city is in a transformation phase, where efforts for sustainable development include urban redevelopment, infrastructure improvement, and the promotion of cultural and sports activities.
The cultural heritage of Kuçova is linked to the industrial memory, the collective life of the socialist period, local crafts and community activities that have been preserved in the tradition of the area's inhabitants. In recent years, the city has shown a growing interest in youth initiatives, urban art and the promotion of alternative tourism.
Kuçova remains a unique testimony of a historical period in Albania and an example of a city in transition, aiming to find a new balance between its industrial past and a future open to sustainable development.
