Maqellarë is a former municipality in the Dibër County, eastern Albania. Following the 2015 local government reform, it became part of the larger municipality of Dibër. Its administrative center was the village also named Maqellarë.
Location and Geography Maqellarë is situated in the northeastern part of Albania, within the Dibër plain, a fertile agricultural valley bordered by mountains. It lies in close proximity to the border with North Macedonia. The region is notable for its position along the valley of the Black Drin River, a significant waterway in the Balkans. The former municipality encompassed several villages, including Maqellarë e Madhe (Greater Maqellarë) and Maqellarë e Vogël (Lesser Maqellarë), reflecting historical and geographical distinctions within the area.
Demographics and Economy The population of Maqellarë is predominantly Albanian. Like much of the Dibër region, the economy is primarily agricultural, with farming and livestock rearing being the main activities. The fertile lands of the Dibër plain, irrigated by the Black Drin and its tributaries, support a variety of crops.
History and Significance The Dibër region, including Maqellarë, has a rich history due to its strategic location at the crossroads of various historical routes and empires. Throughout its history, it has been influenced by Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman, and other regional powers. The area has traditionally been a hub for trade and agriculture. The administrative changes in 2015 were part of a nationwide reform aimed at consolidating local governance structures in Albania.