Albania

Coordinates: 41°N 20°E / 41°N 20°E / 41; 20
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Republic of Albania
Republika e Shqipërisë (Albanian)
Motto: Ti Shqipëri, më jep nder,
më jep emrin Shqipëtar

"You Albania, give me honour,
you give me the name Albanian"
Anthem: "Himni i Flamurit"
"Hymn to the Flag"
Location of Albania (green)
Capital
and largest city
Tirana
41°19′N 19°49′E / 41.317°N 19.817°E / 41.317; 19.817
Official languagesAlbanian
Recognised minority languages
Religion
(2020)
Demonym(s)Albanian
GovernmentUnitary parliamentary republic
• President
Bajram Begaj
Edi Rama
Lindita Nikolla
Legislature
2nd Republic of Albania
10 January 1946
28 December 1976
• 4th Republic of Albania
29 April 1991
28 November 1998
Area
• Total
28,748 km2 (11,100 sq mi) (140th)
• Water (%)
4.7
Population
• January 2022 estimate
Neutral decrease 2,793,592[2]
• 2011 census
2,821,977[3]
• Density
97/km2 (251.2/sq mi)
GDP (PPP)2024 estimate
• Total
Increase $59.099 billion[4] (118th)
• Per capita
Increase $20,739[4] (83rd)
GDP (nominal)2024 estimate
• Total
Increase $25.297 billion[4] (125th)
• Per capita
Increase $8,877[4] (84th)
Gini (2019)Positive decrease 34.3[5]
medium
HDI (2021)Increase 0.796[6]
high (67th)
CurrencyLek (ALL)
Time zoneUTC+1 (CET)
• Summer (DST)
UTC+2 (CEST)
Driving sideright
Calling code+355
ISO 3166 codeAL
Internet TLD.al

Albania (

Skanderbeg, Pindus and Ceraunian Mountains, to fertile lowland plains extending from the coasts of the Adriatic and Ionian seas. Tirana is the capital and largest city in the country, followed by Durrës, Vlorë, and Shkodër
.

In ancient times, the

protectorate of Nazi Germany during World War II.[9] Following the war, the People's Socialist Republic of Albania was formed, which lasted until the Revolutions of 1991 concluded with the fall of communism in Albania
and eventually the establishment of the current Republic of Albania.

Since its independence in 1912, Albania has undergone a diverse political evolution, transitioning from a

upper-middle income economy driven by the service sector, with manufacturing and tourism also playing significant roles.[10] The country underwent a transition post the dissolution of communism, shifting from a centralised planning to adopting an open market economy.[11] Citizens in Albania benefit from universal health care
access and receive complimentary primary and secondary education.

Name

The historical origins of the term "Albania" can be traced back to

Albani. This connection gains further support from the work of the Ancient Greek geographer Ptolemy during the 2nd century AD, where he included the settlement of Albanopolis situated to the northeast of Durrës.[12][13] The presence of a medieval settlement named Albanon or Arbanon hints at the possibility of historical continuity. However, the precise relationship between these historical references and the question of whether Albanopolis was synonymous with Albanon remains a subject of scholarly debate.[14]

The Byzantine historian

Michael Attaliates, in his 11th century historical account, provides the earliest undisputed reference to the Albanians, when he mentions them having taken part in a revolt against Constantinople in 1079.[15] Additionally, he identified the Arbanitai as subjects under the governance of the Duke of Dyrrachium.[16] In the Middle Ages, Albania was denoted as Arbëri or Arbëni by its inhabitants, who identified themselves as Arbëreshë or Arbëneshë.[17] Albanians employ the terms Shqipëri or Shqipëria when referring to their nation, designations that trace their historical origins to the 14th century.[18] However, it was not until the late 17th and early 18th centuries that these terms gradually superseded Arbëria and Arbëreshë among the Albanians.[18][19] These two expressions are widely interpreted to symbolise "Children of the Eagles" and "Land of the Eagles".[20][21]

History

Prehistory

county of Korçë
.

Mesolithic habitation in Albania has been evidenced in several open air sites which during that period were close to the Adriatic coastline and in cave sites. Mesolithic objects found in a cave near Xarrë include

Aurignacian culture.[22] The Neolithic era in Albania began around 7000 BCE and is evidenced in finds which indicate domestication of sheep and goats and small-scale agriculture. A part of the Neolithic population may have been the same as the Mesolithic population of the southern Balkans like in the Konispol cave where the Mesolithic stratum co-exists with Pre-Pottery Neolithic finds. Cardium pottery culture appears in coastal Albania and across the Adriatic after 6500 BCE, while the settlements of the interior took part in the processes which formed Starčevo culture.[23] The Albanian bitumen mines of Selenicë provide early evidence of bitumen exploitation in Europe, dating to Late Neolithic Albania (from 5000 BCE), when local communities used it as pigment for ceramic decoration, waterproofing, and adhesive for reparing broken vessels. The bitumen of Selenicë circulated towards eastern Albania from the early 5th millennium BCE. First evidence of its overseas trade export comes from Neolithic and Bronze Age southern Italy. The high quality bitumen of Selenicë has been exploited throughout all the historical ages since the Late Neolithic era until today.[24]

The

Lake Shkodër and appear typically in tumulus cemeteries like in Shkrel and Shtoj and hillforts like Gajtan (Shkodër) as well as cave sites like Blaz, Nezir and Keputa (central Albania) and lake basin sites like Sovjan (southeastern Albania).[27]

Antiquity

Scodra was the capital of the Illyrian kingdom of Ardiaei and Labeatae
.

The incorporated territory of Albania was historically inhabited by

Vjosë.[28][29] The first account of the Illyrian groups comes from Periplus of the Euxine Sea, a Greek text written in the 4th century BC.[30] The Bryges were also present in central Albania, while the south was inhabited by the Epirote Chaonians, whose capital was at Phoenice.[30][31][32] Other colonies such as Apollonia and Epidamnos were established by Greek city-states on the coast by the 7th century BC.[30][33][34]

Apollonia was an important Greek colony on the Illyrian coast along the Adriatic Sea and one of the western points of the Via Egnatia route, that connected Rome and Constantinople.

The Illyrian Taulanti were a powerful Illyrian tribe that were among the earliest recorded tribes in the area. They lived in a area that corresponds much of present-day Albania. Together with the Dardanian ruler Cleitus, Glaucias, the ruler of the Taulantian kingdom, fought against Alexander the Great at the Battle of Pelium in 335 BC. As the time passed, the ruler of Ancient Macedonia, Cassander of Macedon captured Apollonia and crossed the river Genusus (Albanian: Shkumbin) in 314 BC. A few years later Glaucias laid siege to Apollonia and captured the Greek colony of Epidamnos.[35]

The Illyrian

Third Illyrian War. The conflict resulted in Roman conquest of the region by 167 BC. The Romans split the region into three administrative divisions.[40]

Middle Ages

The town of Krujë was the capital of the Principality of Arbanon in the Middle Ages.

The

Barbarian Invasions. From the 6th century into the 7th century, the Slavs crossed the Danube and largely absorbed the indigenous Greeks, Illyrians and Thracians in the Balkans; thus, the Illyrians were mentioned for the last time in historical records in the 7th century.[41][42]

In the 11th century, the

Progon of Kruja.[43] The realm was succeeded by his sons Gjin
and Dhimitri.

Upon the death of Dhimiter, the territory came under the rule of the Albanian-Greek

semi-autonomous status as the western extremity of the Byzantine Empire, under the Byzantine Doukai of Epirus or Laskarids of Nicaea.[50]

Venetian Empire
.

Towards the end of the 12th and beginning of the 13th centuries,

Michael Attaliates, who referred to the Albanoi as having taken part in a revolt against Constantinople.[52]
At this point the Albanians were fully Christianised.

After the dissolution of Arbanon,

Lordship of Berat and Principality of Dukagjini. In the first half of the 15th century, the Ottoman Empire invaded most of Albania, and the League of Lezhë was held under Skanderbeg
as a ruler, who became the national hero of the Albanian medieval history.

Ottoman Empire

Ali Pasha Tepelena was a powerful autonomous Ottoman-Albanian ruler, governing over the Pashalik of Yanina
.

With the

Islamisation
and the rapid construction of mosques.

A prosperous and longstanding revolution erupted after the formation of the

When the Ottomans were gaining a firm foothold in the region, Albanian towns were organised into four principal

sanjaks. The government fostered trade by settling a sizeable Jewish colony of refugees fleeing persecution in Spain. The city of Vlorë saw passing through its ports imported merchandise from Europe such as velvets, cotton goods, mohairs, carpets, spices and leather from Bursa and Constantinople. Some citizens of Vlorë even had business associates throughout Europe.[61]

The phenomenon of Islamisation among the Albanians became primarily widespread from the 17th century and continued into the 18th century.[62] Islam offered them equal opportunities and advancement within the Ottoman Empire. However, motives for conversion were, according to some scholars, diverse depending on the context though the lack of source material does not help when investigating such issues.[62] Because of increasing suppression of Catholicism, most Catholic Albanians converted in the 17th century, while Orthodox Albanians followed suit mainly in the following century.

Since the Albanians were seen as strategically important, they made up a significant proportion of the

Ali Pasha of Tepelena. Furthermore, two sultans, Bayezid II and Mehmed III, both had mothers of Albanian origin.[61][63][64]

Rilindja

Albanian cause.[65]

The

Albanian culture flourished too, especially Albanian literature and arts, and was frequently linked to the influences of the Romanticism and Enlightenment principles.[66] Prior to the rise of nationalism
, Ottoman authorities suppressed any expression of national unity or conscience by the Albanian people.

The victory of Russia over the Ottoman Empire following the

Ottoman administration. They favoured and protected the Muslim solidarity and called for defence of Muslim lands simultaneously constituting the reason for titling the league Committee of the Real Muslims.[67]

Approximately 300 Muslims participated in the assembly composed by delegates from Bosnia, the

Vilayet of Scutari.[68] Signed by only 47 Muslim deputies, the league issued the Kararname that contained a proclamation that the people from northern Albania, Epirus and Bosnia and Herzegovina are willing to defend the territorial integrity of the Ottoman Empire by all possible means against the troops of Bulgaria, Serbia and Montenegro.[69]

Ottomans authorities cancelled their assistance when the league, under

Ioannina, into an unified vilayet, the Albanian Vilayet. The league used military force to prevent the annexing areas of Plav and Gusinje assigned to Montenegro. After several successful battles with Montenegrin troops, such as the Battle of Novšiće, the league was forced to retreat from their contested regions. The league was later defeated by the Ottoman army sent by the sultan.[70]

Independence

Ismail Qemali is regarded as the founding father of the modern Albanian nation.

Albania

Senate and Government by the Assembly of Vlorë on 4 December 1912.[71][72][73][74] Its sovereignty was recognised by the Conference of London. On 29 July 1913, the Treaty of London delineated the borders of the country and its neighbours, leaving many Albanians outside Albania, predominantly partitioned between Montenegro, Serbia and Greece.[75]

Headquartered in Vlorë, the

Turhan Pasha Përmeti
to form the first Albanian cabinet.

In November 1913, the Albanian pro-Ottoman forces had offered the throne of Albania to the Ottoman war Minister of Albanian origin,

Great Powers and local landowners, that owned half of the arable land.[80]

In February 1914, the

Prênk Bibë Doda, to be the foreign minister of the Principality of Albania. In May and June 1914, the International Gendarmerie was joined by Isa Boletini and his men, mostly from Kosovo,[85] and northern Mirdita Catholics, were defeated by the rebels who captured most of Central Albania by the end of August 1914.[86] The regime of Prince Wied collapsed, and he left the country on 3 September 1914.[87]

First Republic

Fan Noli played a significant role in the 20th century, advocating for Albanian independence and cultural revival, while also serving as Prime Minister in 1924 and later as the head of the Albanian Orthodox Church.

The interwar period in Albania was marked by persistent economic and social difficulties, political instability and foreign interventions.[88][89] After World War I, Albania lacked an established government and internationally recognised borders, rendering it vulnerable to neighboring entities such as Greece, Italy and Yugoslavia, all of which sought to expand their influence.[88] This led to political uncertainty, highlighted in 1918 when the Congress of Durrës sought Paris Peace Conference protection but was denied, further complicating Albania's position on the international stage. Territorial tensions escalated as Yugoslavia, particularly Serbia, sought control of northern Albania, while Greece aimed dominance in southern Albania. The situation deteriorated in 1919 when the Serbs launched attacks on Albanian inhabitants, among others in Gusinje and Plav, resulting in massacres and large-scale displacement.[88][90][91] Meanwhile, Italian influence continued to expand during this time driven by economic interests and political ambitions.[89][92]

Fascist Italy, with Zog assuming the title of King Zog I. Key constitutional changes dissolved the Senate and established a unicameral National Assembly, while preserving Zog's authoritative powers.[88]

In 1939, Italy led by Benito Mussolini, launched a military invasion of Albania, resulting to the exile of Zog and the creation of an Italian protectorate.[93][94] As World War II progressed, Italy aimed to expand its territorial dominion in the Balkans, including territorial claims on regions of Greece (Chameria), Macedonia, Montenegro and Kosovo. These ambitions laid the foundation of Greater Albania, which aimed to unite all areas with Albanian-majority populations into a single country.[95] In 1943, as Italy's control declined, Nazi Germany assumed control of Albania, subjecting Albanians to forced labor, economic exploitation and repression under German rule.[96] The tide shifted in 1944 when the Albanian partisan forces, under the leadership of Enver Hoxha and other communist leaders, successfully liberated Albania from German occupation.[97]

Communism

Enver Hoxha was the founding leader of communist Albania and its ruler for over four decades, implementing a regime marked by authoritarianism and isolationism.

The establishment of the People's Republic of Albania with the leadership of Enver Hoxha characterised a significant epoch in the modern history of Albania.[98] Hoxha's regime embraced Marxism–Leninism ideologies and implemented authoritarian policies, including the prohibition of religious practices, severe restrictions on travel and the abolition of private property rights.[99] It was also defined by a persistent pattern of purges, extensive repression, instances of betrayal and a hostility towards external influences.[99] Any form of opposition or resistance to his rule was met with expeditious and severe consequences, such as internal exile, extended imprisonment and execution.[99] The regime confronted a multitude of challenges in Albania that encompassed widespread poverty, illiteracy, health crises and gender inequality.[97] As a response, Hoxha initiated a modernisation initiative aimed at attaining economic and social liberation and transforming the country into an industrial society.[97] The regime placed a high priority on the diversification of the economy through a programme of Soviet-style industrialisation, comprehensive infrastructure development such as the introduction of a transformative railway system, expansion of education and healthcare services, elimination of adult illiteracy and targeted advancements in areas such as women's rights.[100][101][102][103]

Bunkers in Albania were constructed to prevent potential external invasions. By 1983, approximately 173,371 bunkers were scattered throughout its territory.[104]

The diplomatic history of Albania during the communism was characterised by notable diplomatic conflicts.[88] Initially aligned with Yugoslavia as a satellite state, the relationship deteriorated as Yugoslavia aimed to incorporate Albania within its territory.[88] Subsequently, Albania established relations with the Soviet Union and engaged trade agreements with other Eastern European countries, but experienced disagreements over Soviet policies, leading to strained ties with Moscow and a diplomatic separation in 1961.[88] Simultaneously, tensions with the West also heightened due to Albania's refusal to hold free elections and allegations of Western support for Anti-Communist uprisings. Albania's enduring partnership was with China as it sided with Beijing during the Sino-Soviet conflict, resulting in severed ties with the Soviet Union and withdrawal from the Warsaw Pact in response to the invasion of Czechoslovakia in 1968. However, their relations stagnated in the 1970, prompting both sides to reassess their commitment, and Albania actively reduced its dependence on China.[88]

Under Hoxha's regime, Albania underwent a widespread campaign targeting religious clergy of various faiths, resulting in public persecution and executions, particularly targeting Muslims, Roman Catholics and Eastern Orthodox adherents.[88] In 1946, religious estates underwent nationalisation, coinciding with the closure or transformation of religious institutions into various other purposes.[88] The culmination occurred in 1976 when Albania attained the status of being the world's first constitutional atheist state.[105] Under this regime, Albanians were forced to renounce their religious beliefs, adopt a secular way of life and embrace a socialist ideology.[88][105]

Fourth Republic

In 1988, the first foreigners were allowed to walk into the car-free Skanderbeg Square in Tirana.

After four decades of communism paired with the

parliamentary elections of 1992 directed by the Democratic Party.[106] Considerable economic and financial resources were devoted to pyramid schemes that were widely supported by the government. The schemes swept up somewhere between one sixth and one third of the population of the country.[107][108] Despite the warnings of the International Monetary Fund, Sali Berisha defended the schemes as large investment firms, leading more people to redirect their remittances and sell their homes and cattle for cash to deposit in the schemes.[109]

The schemes began to collapse in late 1996, leading many of the investors to join initially peaceful protests against the government, requesting their money back. The protests turned violent in February 1997 as government forces responded by firing on the demonstrators. In March, the Police and Republican Guard deserted, leaving their armouries open. These were promptly emptied by militias and criminal gangs. The resulting

civil war caused a wave of evacuations of foreign nationals and refugees.[110]

The crisis led both

judicial system
and simultaneously the Albanian police.

Contemporary

The earthquake of November 2019 was the strongest to hit Albania in more than four decades.[111]

Following the disintegration of the

official candidate status.[116]

2017 parliamentary elections. As Prime Minister, he implemented numerous reforms focused on modernising the economy, as well as democratising state institutions, including the country's judiciary and law enforcement. Unemployment has been steadily reduced, with Albania achieving the 4th lowest unemployment rate in the Balkans.[117] Rama has also placed gender equality at the centre of his agenda; since 2017 almost 50% of the ministers are female, the largest number of women serving in the country's history.[118] During the 2021 parliamentary elections, the ruling Socialist Party led by Edi Rama secured its third consecutive victory, winning nearly half of votes and enough seats in parliament to govern alone.[119][120]

On 26 November 2019, a 6.4

epicentre positioned approximately 16 km (10 mi) southwest of the town of Mamurras.[121] The tremor was felt in Tirana and in places as far away as Taranto, Italy, and Belgrade, Serbia, while the most affected areas were the coastal city of Durrës and the village of Kodër-Thumanë.[122] Comprehensive response to the earthquake included substantial humanitarian aid from the Albanian diaspora and various countries around the world.[123]

On 9 March 2020, COVID-19 was confirmed to have spread to Albania.[124][125] From March to June 2020, the government declared a state of emergency as a measure to limit the rapid spread of the pandemic in the country.[126][127][128] The country's COVID-19 vaccination campaign started on 11 January 2021; however, as of 11 August 2021, the total number of vaccines administered so far in Albania amounts to 1,280,239 doses.[129][130]

Environment

Geography

Albanian Alps are an extension and simultaneously the highest section of the Dinaric Alps
.

With an area of 28,748 km2 (11,100 sq mi), Albania is situated along the

Mount Korab, rising at 2,764 m (9,068.24 ft) above the Adriatic
, is the highest point, while the Mediterranean Sea, at 0 m (0.00 ft), is the lowest point. The country extends 148 km (92 mi) from east to west and around 340 km (211 mi) from north to south.

Albania possesses a diverse and varied landscape with mountains and hills that traverse its territory in various directions. The country is home to extensive mountain ranges, including the

Vjosë
, which represents one of the last intact large river systems in Europe.

Climate

Gjipe is located on the confluence of the Adriatic and Ionian Sea, on the Albanian Riviera
.

The

Korab Mountains are recognised as the coldest areas in the country.[139] Throughout the year, the average monthly temperatures fluctuate, ranging from −1 °C (30 °F) during the winter months to 21.8 °C (71.2 °F) in the summer months. Notably, the highest recorded temperature of 43.9 °C (111.0 °F) was observed in Kuçovë on 18 July 1973, while the lowest temperature of −29 °C (−20 °F) was recorded in Shtyllë, Librazhd on 9 January 2017.[140][141]

Albania receives most of the

Albanian Alps in the far north of the country are considered to be among the most humid regions of Europe, receiving at least 3,100 mm (122.0 in) of rain annually.[139] Four glaciers within these mountains were discovered at a relatively low altitude of 2,000 metres (6,600 ft), which is extremely rare for such a southerly latitude.[142]

Biodiversity

The golden eagle is the national symbol and animal of Albania.

A

grey wolf, red fox, golden jackal, Egyptian vulture and golden eagle, the latter constituting the national animal of the country.[145][146][147][148]

The estuaries, wetlands and lakes are extraordinarily important for the greater flamingo, pygmy cormorant and the extremely rare and perhaps the most iconic bird of the country, the dalmatian pelican.[149] Of particular importance are the Mediterranean monk seal, loggerhead sea turtle and green sea turtle that use to nest on the country's coastal waters and shores.

In terms of phytogeography, Albania is part of the Boreal Kingdom and stretches specifically within the Illyrian province of the Circumboreal and Mediterranean Region. Its territory can be subdivided into four terrestrial ecoregions of the Palearctic realm namely within the Illyrian deciduous forests, Balkan mixed forests, Pindus Mountains mixed forests and Dinaric Mountains mixed forests.[150][151]

Approximately 3,500 different species of plants can be found in Albania which refers principally to a

Mediterranean and Eurasian character. The country maintains a vibrant tradition of herbal and medicinal practices. At the minimum 300 plants growing locally are used in the preparation of herbs and medicines.[152] The trees within the forests are primarily fir, oak, beech and pine
.

Conservation

The islets of Ksamil lie in the Butrint National Park.

Albania has been an active participant in numerous international agreements and conventions aimed at strengthing its commitment to the preservation and sustainable management of biological diversity. Since 1994, the country is a party to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and its associated Cartagena and Nagoya Protocols.[153] To uphold these commitments, it has developed and implemented a comprehensive National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP).[153] Furthermore, Albania has established a partnership with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), advancing its conservation efforts on both national and international scales. Guided by the IUCN, the country has made substantial progress in the foundation of protected areas within its boundaries, encompassing 12 national parks among others Butrint, Karaburun-Sazan, Llogara, Prespa and Vjosa.[154]

As a signatory to the

Protected areas

lagoon of Karavasta within the Divjakë-Karavasta National Park
.

The

.

To the south, the

Lagoon of Karavasta, one of the largest lagoon systems in the Mediterranean Sea. Notably, Europe's first wild river national park, Vjosa National Park, safeguards the Vjosa River and its primary tributaries, which originates in the Pindus Mountains and flows to the Adriatic Sea. Dajti Mountain National Park, Lurë-Dejë Mountain National Park and Tomorr Mountain National Park protect the mountainous terrain of the center of Albania, including the Tomorr and Skanderbeg Mountains
.

Environmental issues

Environmental issues in Albania notably encompass

climate change impacts, waste management shortcomings, biodiversity loss and imperative for nature conservation.[160][161] Climate change is predicted to exert significant impacts on the quality of life in Albania.[162] The country is recognised as vulnerable to climate change impacts, ranked 79 among 181 countries in the Notre Dame Global Adaptation Index of 2020.[163] Factors that account for the country's vulnerability to climate change risks include geological and hydrological hazards, including earthquakes, flooding, fires, landslides, torrential rains, river and coastal erosion.[164][165]

As a party to the

carbon neutrality by 2050 which, along with national policies, will help to mitigate the impacts of the climate change.[166] The country has a moderate and improving performance in the Environmental Performance Index with an overall ranking of 62 out of 180 countries in 2022.[167]
Albania's ranking has, however, decreased since its highest placement at position 15 in the Environmental Performance Index of 2012.[168] In 2019, Albania had a Forest Landscape Integrity Index mean score of 6.77 from 10, ranking it 64th globally out of 172 countries.[169]

The Prespa National Park in southeastern Albania is part of the European Green Belt and Ohrid-Prespa Biosphere Reserve.

Politics

Bajram Begaj
President
Edi Rama
Prime Minister

Since declaring independence in 1912, Albania has experienced a significant political transformation, traversing through distinct periods that included a monarchical rule, a communist regime and the eventual establishment of a democratic order.

administrative courts.[171]

Albania's legal system is structured to protect the political rights of its people, regardless of their ethnic, linguistic, racial or religious affiliations.[171][173] Despite these principles, there are significant human rights concerns in Albania that demand attention.[174] These concerns include issues related to the independence of the judiciary, the absence of a free media sector and the enduring problem of corruption within various governmental bodies, law enforcement agencies and other institutions.[174] However, as Albania pursues its path towards European Union (EU) membership, active efforts are being made to achieve substantial improvements in these areas to align with EU criteria and standards.[173]

Foreign relations

Assisted by the governments of Kosovo and Albania, an official application for the inclusion of the Arbëreshë people in the list of UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage is being prepared.[175]

Emerging from decades of isolation during the communism, Albania has adopted a

Serbia and the diaspora.[176]

The external affairs of Albania underscore the country's dedication to regional stability and integration into major international institutions.[177] Albania became a member of the United Nations (UN) in 1955, shortly after emerging from a period of isolation during the communist era.[178] The country reached a major achievement in its foreign policy by securing membership in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) in 2009.[179][180] Since obtaining candidate status in 2014, the country has also embarked on a comprehensive reform agenda to align itself with European Union (EU) accession standards, with the objective of becoming an EU member state.[116]

Albania and Kosovo maintain a fraternal relationship strengthened by their substantial cultural, ethnical and historical ties.[181] Both countries foster enduring diplomatic ties, with Albania actively supporting Kosovo's development and international integration efforts.[181] Its fundamental contribution to Kosovo's path to independence is underscored by its early recognition of Kosovo's sovereignty in 2008.[182] Furthermore, both governments hold annual joint meetings, displayed by the inaugural meeting in 2014, which serves as an official platform to enhance bilateral cooperation and reinforce their joint commitment to policies that promote the stability and prosperity of the broader Albanian region.[181]

Military

Albanian soldiers in the Province of Kandahar
, Afghanistan

The

Land, Air and Naval Forces and constitute the military and paramilitary forces of the country. They are led by a commander-in-chief under the supervision of the Ministry of Defence and by the President as the supreme commander during wartime. However, in times of peace its powers are executed through the Prime Minister and the Defence Minister.[183]

The chief purpose of the armed forces of Albania is the defence of the independence, the sovereignty and the territorial integrity of the country, as well as the participation in humanitarian, combat, non-combat and peace support operations.[183] Military service is voluntary since 2010 with the age of 19 being the legal minimum age for the duty.[184][185]

Albania has committed to increase the participations in multinational operations.

Operation Active Endeavor in the Mediterranean Sea.[187] It was invited to join NATO on 3 April 2008, and it became a full member on 2 April 2009.[188]

Albania reduced the number of active troops from 65,000 in 1988 to 14,500 in 2009.[189][190] The military now consists mainly of a small fleet of aircraft and sea vessels. Increasing the military budget was one of the most important conditions for NATO integration. As of 1996 military spending was an estimated 1.5% of the country's GDP, only to peak in 2009 at 2% and fall again to 1.5%.[191]

Administrative divisions

Albania is defined within a territorial area of 28,748 km2 (11,100 sq mi) in the

Balkan Peninsula. It is informally divided into three regions, the Northern, Central and Southern Regions. Since its Declaration of Independence in 1912, Albania has reformed its internal organization 21 times. Presently, the primary administrative units are the twelve constituent counties (qarqe/qarqet), which hold equal status under the law.[192] Counties had previously been used in the 1950s and were recreated on 31 July 2000 to unify the 36 districts (rrathë/rrathët) of that time.[193][194] The largest county in Albania by population is Tirana County with over 800,000 people. The smallest county, by population, is Gjirokastër County with over 70,000 people. The largest in the county, by area, is Korçë County encompassing 3,711 square kilometres (1,433 sq mi) of the southeast of Albania. The smallest county, by area, is Durrës County
with an area of 766 square kilometres (296 sq mi) in the west of Albania.

The counties are made up of 61 second-level divisions known as

administrative units (njësia/njësitë administrative). There are also 2980 villages (fshatra/fshatrat), neighborhoods or wards (lagje/lagjet), and localities (lokalitete/lokalitetet
) previously used as administrative units.

Emblem County Capital Area
(km2)
Population (2020) HDI (2019)
Emblem of Berat County Berat Berat 1,798 122,003 0.782
Emblem of Dibër County Dibër Peshkopi 2,586 115,857 0.754
Emblem of Durrës County Durrës Durrës 766 290,697 0.802
Emblem of Elbasan County Elbasan Elbasan 3,199 270,074 0.784
Emblem of Fier County Fier Fier 1,890 289,889 0.767
Emblem of Gjirokastër County Gjirokastër Gjirokastër 2,884 59,381 0.794
Emblem of Korçë County Korçë Korçë 3,711 204,831 0.790
Emblem of Kukës County Kukës Kukës 2,374 75,428 0.749
Emblem of Lezhë County Lezhë Lezhë 1,620 122,700 0.769
Emblem of Shkodër County Shkodër Shkodër 3,562 200,007 0.784
Emblem of Tirana County Tirana Tirana 1,652 906,166 0.820
Emblem of Vlorë County Vlorë Vlorë 2,706 188,922 0.802
References:[201][202]

Economy

Tirana is the economic hub of the country. It is home to major domestic and foreign companies operating in the country.

The transition from a socialist

pegged
at approximately 132.51 lek per euro.

The cities of

Telekom Albania
and others.

In 2012, Albania's

unemployment rate of 14.7%.[208] Foreign direct investment
has increased significantly in recent years as the government has embarked on an ambitious programme to improve the business climate through fiscal and legislative reforms.

Primary sector

citrus fruits
are mostly produced in Southern Albania.

Agriculture in the country is based on small to medium-sized family-owned dispersed units. It remains a significant sector of the economy of Albania. It employs 41%[209] of the population, and about 24.31% of the land is used for agricultural purposes. One of the earliest farming sites in Europe has been found in the southeast of the country.[210] As part of the pre-accession process of Albania to the European Union, farmers are being aided through IPA funds to improve Albanian agriculture standards.[211]

Albania produces significant amounts of fruits (apples,

sea bream, mussels and crustaceans
.

Albania has one of Europe's longest histories of viticulture.[213] Today's region was one of the few places where vine was naturally grown during the ice age. The oldest found seeds in the region are 4,000 to 6,000 years old.[214] In 2009, the nation produced an estimated 17,500 tonnes of wine.[215]

Secondary sector

The Antea factory in Fushë-Krujë

The secondary sector of Albania has undergone many changes and diversification since the collapse of the communist regime in the country. It is very diversified, from

Balkan peninsula after Romania, and the largest oil reserves[219] in Europe. The Albpetrol company is owned by the Albanian state and monitors the state petroleum agreements in the country. The textile industry has seen an extensive expansion by approaching companies from the European Union (EU) in Albania. According to the Institute of Statistics (INSTAT) as of 2016, the textile production marked an annual growth of 5.3% and an annual turnover of around 1.5 billion euros.[220]

Albania is a significant minerals producer and is ranked among the world's leading chromium producers and exporters.[221] The nation is also a notable producer of copper, nickel and coal.[222] The Batra mine, Bulqizë mine, and Thekna mine are among the most recognised Albanian mines that are still in operation.

Tertiary sector

The Islets of Ksamil, in the south of the Albanian Ionian Sea Coast

The

privatisation and the commendable monetary policy.[224][223]

Previously one of the most

telecommunications service providers
in the country.

Tourism is recognised as an industry of national importance and has been steadily increasing since the beginnings of the 21st century.[225][226] It directly accounted for 8.4% of GDP in 2016 though including indirect contributions pushes the proportion to 26%.[227] In the same year, the country received approximately 4.74 million visitors mostly from across Europe and the United States as well.[228]

The increase of foreign visitors has been dramatic. Albania had only 500,000 visitors in 2005, while in 2012 had an estimated 4.2 million, an increase of 740 percent in only 7 years. In 2015, tourism in summer increased by 25 percent in contrast the previous year according to the country's tourism agency.[229] In 2011, Lonely Planet named as a top travel destination,[230][failed verification] while The New York Times placed Albania as number 4 global touristic destination in 2014.[231]

The bulk of the tourist industry is concentrated along the

Albanian Alps, Ceraunian Mountains and Korab Mountains but also the historical cities of Berat, Durrës, Gjirokastër, Sarandë, Shkodër and Korçë
.

Transport

Tirana International Airport is named in honour of the Albanian nun and missionary Mother Teresa
.

Transportation in Albania is managed within the functions of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Energy and entities such as the Albanian Road Authority (ARRSH), responsible for the construction and maintenance of the highways and motorways in Albania, as well as the Albanian Aviation Authority (AAC), with the responsibility of coordinating civil aviation and airports in the country.

The

Vlorë.[235]

The

Autostrada 3 (A3) is currently under construction and will connect, after its completion, Tirana and Elbasan
with the Pan-European Corridor VIII. When all three corridors are completed, Albania will have an estimated 759 kilometres (472 mi) of highway linking it with all of its neighbouring countries.

seaport in the country, followed by Vlorë, Shëngjin and Sarandë. As of 2014, it is as one of the largest passenger ports on the Adriatic Sea
with annual passenger volume of approximately 1.5 million. The principal ports serve a system of ferries connecting Albania with numerous islands and coastal cities in Croatia, Greece and Italy.

The rail network is administered by the national railway company Hekurudha Shqiptare which was extensively promoted by the dictator Enver Hoxha. There has been a considerable increase in private car ownership and bus usage while rail use decreased since the end of communism. However, a new railway line from Tirana and its airport to Durrës is currently planned. The specific location of this railway, connecting the most populated urban areas in Albania, makes it an important economic development project.[238][239]

Infrastructure

Education

University of Arts
is the largest higher education institute dedicated to the study of arts.

In the country, education is secular, free,

literacy rate of 98.7%, with 99.2% for males and 98.3% for females.[243][244]

Compulsory primary education is divided into two levels, elementary and secondary school, from grade one to five and six to nine, respectively.[240] Pupils are required to attend school from the age of six until they turn 16. Upon successful completion of primary education, all pupils are entitled to attend high schools with specialising in any particular field including arts, sports, languages, sciences or technology.[240]

The country's tertiary education, an optional stage of formal learning following secondary education, has undergone a thorough reformation and restructuring in compliance with the principles of the

doctorate
.

Health

The Albanian cuisine from the Mediterranean, which is characterised by the use of fruits, vegetables and olive oil, contributes to the good nutrition of the country's population.[246]

The

infant mortality rate is estimated at 12 per 1,000 live births in 2015. In 2000, the country had the 55th best healthcare performance in the world, as defined by the World Health Organization.[252]

Neuropsychiatric disease has also increased due to recent demographic, social and economic changes in the country.[248]

In 2009, the country had a fruit and vegetable supply of 886 grams per capita per day, the fifth highest supply in Europe.

World Health Organization data from 2016, 21.7% of adults in the country are clinically overweight, with a Body mass index (BMI) score of 25 or more.[256]

Energy

Electricity production in Albania from 1980 to 2019

Due to its geographical location and natural resources, Albania has a wide variety of

hydroelectric power stations, including Fierza, Koman, Skavica and Vau i Dejës. Two other power stations, such as the Banjë and Moglicë, are located along the Devoll in the south.[263]

Albania has considerable deposits of oil. It has the 10th largest oil reserves in Europe and the 58th in the world.

oil field in Europe.[265] The Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP), part of the planned Southern Gas Corridor, runs for 215 kilometres (134 miles) across Albania's territory before entering the Albanian Adriatic Sea Coast approximately 17 kilometres (11 miles) northwest of Fier.[266]

The

rivers, springs and groundwater aquifers.[267] The country's available average quantity of fresh water is estimated at 129.7 cubic metres (4,580 cubic feet) per inhabitant per year, which is one of the highest rates in Europe.[268] According to the data presented by the Joint Monitoring Programme for Water Supply and Sanitation (JMP) in 2015, about 93% of the country's total population had access to improved sanitation.[269]

Media

Radio Televizioni Shqiptar (RTSH) was initially inaugurated as Radio Tirana in 1938 prior to the World War II
.

The

Press Freedom Index of 2020 compiled by the Reporters Without Borders, with its score steadily declining since 2003.[271] Nevertheless, in the 2020 report of Freedom in the World, the Freedom House classified the freedoms of press and speech in Albania as partly free from political interference and manipulation.[272]

Televizioni Klan and Vizion Plus whose content are distributed throughout Albania and beyond its territory in Kosovo and other Albanian-speaking territories.[274]

Albanian cinema has its roots in the 20th century and developed after the country's

Durrës International Film Festival
, the second largest film festival.

Technology

After the

GDE from foreign sources, including the framework programmes for research of the European Union, to the point where it covers 40% of research spending, among others. Albania was ranked 83rd in the Global Innovation Index in 2023.[278][279]

Telecommunication represents one of the fastest growing and dynamic sectors in Albania.

Telekom Albania and Albtelecom are the three large providers of mobile and internet in Albania.[280] As of the Electronic and Postal Communications Authority (AKEP) in 2018, the country had approximately 2.7 million active mobile users with almost 1.8 million active broadband subscribers.[282] Vodafone Albania alone served more than 931,000 mobile users, Telekom Albania had about 605,000 users and Albtelecom had more than 272,000 users.[282] In January 2023, Albania launched its first two satellites, Albania 1 and Albania 2, into orbit, in what was regarded as a milestone effort in monitoring the country's territory and identifying illegal activities.[283][284] Albanian-American engineer Mira Murati, the Chief Technology Officer of research organization OpenAI, played a substantial role in the development and launch of artificial intelligence services such as ChatGPT, Codex and DALL-E.[285][286][287] In December 2023, Prime Minister Edi Rama announced plans for collaboration between the Albanian government and ChatGPT, facilitated by discussions with Murati.[288][289] Rama emphasised the intention to streamline the alignment of Albanian laws with the regulations of the European Union, aiming to reduce costs associated with translation and legal services.[288]

Demography

Development of the population of Albania over the last sixty years

As defined by the

population density stands at 259 inhabitants per square kilometre. The overall life expectancy at birth is 78.5 years; 75.8 years for males and 81.4 years for females.[274] The country is the 8th most populous country in the Balkans and ranks as the 137th most populous country in the world. The country's population rose steadily from 2.5 million in 1979 until 1989, when it peaked at 3.1 million.[291] Since then, the population has continually decreased every year.[292] It is forecast that the population will continue shrinking for the next decade at least, depending on the actual birth rate and the level of net migration.[293] In 2022, over 46,000 people migrated out of Albania, a 10% increase over the previous year.[292]

The explanation for the recent population decrease is the fall of communism in Albania in the late twentieth century. That period was marked by economic mass emigration from Albania to Greece, Italy and the United States. The migration affected the country's internal population distribution. It decreased particularly in the north and south, while it increased in the centre within the cities of Tirana and Durrës.[citation needed] Migration abroad has continued in recent years, particularly of the young and educated. As much as a third of those born in the country's borders now live outside of it, making Albania one of the countries with the highest rate of outmigration relative to its population in the world.[294][295] In 2022 the birth rate was 20% lower than in 2021, largely due to emigration of people of childbearing age.[296]

About 53.4% of the country's

Balkan Peninsula
and ranks seventh with a population about 400,000.

The country's largest
urban areas by population as of 2011.[299]

# City Population # City Population
1 Tirana 418,495 11 Kavajë 20,192
2 Durrës 113,249 12 Gjirokastër 19,836
3 Vlorë 79,513 13 Sarandë 17,233
4 Elbasan 78,703 14 Laç 17,086
5 Shkodër 77,075 15 Kukës 16,719
6 Fier 55,845 16
Patos
15,937
7 Korçë 51,152 17 Lezhë 15,510
8 Berat 32,606 18 Peshkopi 13,251
9 Lushnjë 31,105 19 Kuçovë 12,654
10 Pogradec 20,848 20 Krujë 11,721

Minorities

Albania recognises nine national or cultural minorities:

Balkan Egyptians 3,368 (0.1%), other ethnicities 2,644 (0.1%), no declared ethnicity 390,938 (14.0%), and not relevant 44,144 (1.6%).[3] On the quality of the specific data the Advisory Committee on the Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities stated that "the results of the census should be viewed with the utmost caution and calls on the authorities not to rely exclusively on the data on nationality collected during the census in determining its policy on the protection of national minorities".[302]

Regarding the Greeks, estimates vary between 60,000 and 300,000 ethnic Greeks in Albania. According to Ian Jeffries, most Western sources put the number at around 200,000. The 300,000 mark is supported by Greek government as well.

CIA World Factbook estimates the Greek minority to constitute 0.9%[308] of the population. The US State Department estimates that Greeks make up 1.17%, and other minorities 0.23%, of the population.[309] The latter questions the validity of the census data about the Greek minority, as measurements have been affected by boycott.[310]

Regions with a traditional presence of ethnic groups other than Albanian.
Distribution of ethnic groups within Albania, as of the 2011 census. Districts coloured grey are those where a majority of people did not declare an ethnicity (the question was optional). The census was criticised and boycotted by minorities in Albania.
Traditional locations of linguistic and religious communities in Albania.

Language

The dialects of the Albanian language in Albania

The

mother tongue.[3] Because of large migration flows from Albania, over half of Albanians during their life learn a second language. The main foreign language known is English with 40.0%, followed by Italian with 27.8% and Greek with 22.9%. The English speakers were mostly young people, the knowledge of Italian is stable in every age group, while there is a decrease of the speakers of Greek in the youngest group.[317]

Among young people aged 25 or less, English, German and Turkish have seen rising interest after 2000. Italian and French have had a stable interest, while Greek has lost much of its previous interest. The trends are linked with cultural and economic factors.[318]

Young people have shown a growing interest in the German language in recent years.[citation needed] Some of them go to Germany for studying or various experiences. Albania and Germany have agreements for cooperating in helping young people of the two countries know both cultures better.[319] Due to a sharp rise in economic relations with Turkey, interest in learning Turkish, in particular among young people, has been growing on a yearly basis.[320]

Religion

Religion in Albania as of the 2011 census conducted by the Institute of Statistics (INSTAT)[321]

  Islam (58.79%)
  Christianity (16.99%)
  No Denomination (5.49%)
  Irreligion (2.5%)
  Unclear (16.24%)

Albania is a

Catholics, 188,992 (6.75%) Eastern Orthodox, 58,628 (2.09%) Bektashi Muslims, 3,797 (0.14%) Evangelicals, 1,919 (0.07%) other Christians, 602 (0.02%) of other religions and 153,630 (5.49%) believers without denomination in Albania.[321] 69,995 people (2.5%) were irreligious while 386,024 (13.79%) did not declare their religion.[321] Albania is nevertheless ranked among the least religious countries in the world.[323] Religion constitute an important role in the lives of only 39% of the country's population.[324] In another report, 56% considered themselves religious, 30% considered themselves non-religious, while 9% defined themselves as convinced atheists. 80% believed in God.[325]

The preliminary results of the 2011 census seemed to give widely different results, with 70% of respondents refusing to declare belief in any of the listed faiths.

Catholic churches and 425 orthodox churches, 568 mosques and 70 bektashi tekkes in the country.[334][335]

Representatives of the Sunni, Orthodox, Bektashi and Catholic Albanian communities in Paris

During

atheist state. Religious freedom has returned, however, since the end of communism
.

Islam survived communist era persecution and reemerged in the modern era as a practised religion in Albania.

Jews left in the country.[341][342]

Culture

Symbols

The helmet of Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg stands as an emblem of Albanian independence.

The red and black

Kastrioti, Muzaka and Thopia clans.[348] Amid the Albanian Renaissance, marking the resurgence of Albanian national identity and aspirations for independence, the Albanian eagle regained its prominence.[344] Its importance reached its culmination with Albania's declaration of independence in 1912, when Ismail Qemali raised it as the national flag in Vlorë.[344]

The coat of arms of Albania is an adaptation of the flag of Albania and the seal of Skanderbeg.[343] The coat comprises the black double-headed eagle positioned at the center of a red field.[343] Above the eagle, it carries the helmet of Skanderbeg that is crowned with the head of a golden horned goat.[345] Ti Shqipëri, më jep nder, më jep emrin Shqipëtar, which translates to "You Albania, give me honor, give me the name Albanian", is the national motto of Albania.[344][345] It finds its foundation in the legacy of national poet Naim Frashëri, who held a renowned role during the Albanian Renaissance.[344] The national anthem of Albania, "Himni i Flamurit", was composed by Asdreni and adopted as such following Albania's independence in 1912.[343]

Clothing

national costume of Albania
with profound cultural significance within Albanian culture.

Albanian traditional clothing, with its contrasting variations for the northern Gheg and southern Tosk Albanians, is a testament to Albania's history, cultural diversity and ethnic identity.[349] Gheg men wear a light-colored shirt paired with wide loose-fitting trousers referred to as the Tirq. These trousers are securely fastened by a wide woven belt, the Brez. An integral component of their costume is the Xhamadan, a woolen red velvet vest adorned with folkloric motifs and gold patterns.[350] They also wear a distinctive dome-shaped hat known as the Qeleshe, crafted from wool, with its origins tracing back to the Illyrians.[351][352] Conversely, Tosk men opt for the Fustanella, a knee-length garment designated as the national costume, typically white with pleats, accompanied by a white shirt. They also wear a beige or dark blue Xhamadan reminiscent of the Gheg attire. To complete their attire, men wear knee-high socks referred to as Çorape and leather shoes known as Opinga.

The attire of Gheg and Tosk women is renowned for its rich palette of colors and intricate filigree detailing, displayed across various components including ear ornaments, finger rings, necklaces, belt buckles and buttons. Key components include a long, light-toned shirt paired with an apron, often accompanied by a woolen or felt mantle referred to as the Xhoka. Additional upper garments, such as the Dollama or Mintan, may be layered, along with a headscarf known as Kapica or Shall. A distinctive variation incorporates a pair of aprons, including the Pështjellak at the rear and the Paranik at the front. Integral to the traditional attire of Gheg women is the ancient Xhubleta.[349] Dedicated efforts have been undertaken to preserve and promote the dress, acknowledging its significance as an emblem of Albanian heritage.[353] As a testament to its importance, the Xhubleta has been inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List.[353] The distinctive bell-shaped garment is fashioned in black and enriched with embroidered ethnic Albanian motifs, showcasing the remarkable craftsmanship of northern Albania.[349] Its crafting process involves multiple intricate stages, encompassing the preparation of shajak fabric and the precise cutting techniques.[353]

Art and architecture

Butrint has been included in the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites since 1992.

The

people, traditions and religions. It covers a broad spectrum with mediums and disciplines that include painting, pottery, sculpture, ceramics
and architecture all of them exemplifying a great variety in style and shape, in different regions and period.

The rise of the

are the most eminent representatives of Albanian art.

The

Voskopojë and Gjirokastër. Involving the introduction of Ottoman architecture
there was a development of mosques and other Islamic buildings, particularly seen in Berat and Gjirokastër.

Bliss, stainless steel sculpture by contemporary artist Helidon Xhixha.

A productive period of Historicism, Art Nouveau and Neoclassicism merged into the 19th century, best exemplified in Korçë. The 20th century brought new architectural styles such as the modern Italian style, which is present in Tirana such as the Skanderbeg Square and Ministries. It is also present in Shkodër, Vlorë, Sarandë and Durrës. Moreover, other towns received their present-day Albania-unique appearance through various cultural or economic influences.

Second World War. At this period many socialist-styled complexes, wide roads and factories were constructed, while town squares were redesigned and numerous of historic and important buildings demolished. Notable examples of that style include the Mother Teresa Square, Pyramid of Tirana, Palace of Congresses
and so on.

Three Albanian archaeological sites are included in the list of

has been included on the tentative list of Albania.

Cuisine

Bukë misri (cornbread) is a staple on the Albanian table.

Throughout the centuries,

Albanian culture, geography and history, and as such, different parts of the country enjoy specific regional cuisines. Cooking traditions especially vary between the north and the south, owing to differing topography and climate that essentially contribute to the excellent growth conditions for a wide array of herbs, fruits, and vegetables.[359]

Albanians produce and use many varieties of fruits such as

lavender, mint, oregano, rosemary, and thyme are widely used, as are vegetables such as garlic, onions, peppers, potatoes, tomatoes, as well as legumes
of all types.

With a coastline along the

lamb is the traditional meat for different holidays and religious festivals for both Christians and Muslims
, although poultry, beef, and pork are also in plentiful supply.

pite
, a traditional and prominent layered Albanian pie

yoghurt. Fërgesë is another national dish, made up of peppers, tomatoes, and cottage cheese. Pite is also popular, a baked pastry with a filling of a mixture of spinach and gjizë (curd) or mish (ground meat
).

Petulla, a traditional fried dough, is also a popular speciality, and is served with

Berliner doughnuts
, are filled with jam, or chocolate and often eaten during winter.

Coffee is an integral part of the Albanian lifestyle. The country has more coffee houses per capita than any other country in the world.[360] Tea is also enjoyed both at home or outside at cafés, bars, or restaurants. Çaj Mali (Sideritis tea) is enormously beloved, and a part of the daily routine for most Albanians. It is cultivated across Southern Albania and noted for its medicinal properties. Black tea is also popular.

Albanian wine is also common throughout the country, and has been cultivated for thousands of years. Albania has a long and ancient history of wine production, and belongs to the Old World of wine producing countries.[361][362]

Music

Albanian folk music is a prominent part of the national identity, and continues to play a major part in overall Albanian music. Folk music can be divided into two stylistic groups, mainly the northern Gheg varieties, and southern Lab and Tosk varieties. Northern and southern traditions are contrasted by a rugged tone from the north, and the more relaxed southern form of music.

Many songs concern events from

Albanian iso-polyphony as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.[364]

Radio Televizioni Shqiptar (RTSH). The festival is celebrated annually since its inauguration in 1962 and has launched the careers of some of Albania's most successful singers including Vaçe Zela and Parashqevi Simaku.[365]
It is significantly a music competition among Albanian performers presenting unreleased songs in premiere, composed by Albanian authors and voted by juries or by public.

Contemporary artists

Literature

An excerpt from the Meshari (The Missal) written by Gjon Buzuku (1555)

The cultural renaissance was first of all expressed through the development of the Albanian language in the area of church texts and publications. The Protestant reforms invigorated hopes for the development of the local language and literary tradition, when cleric Gjon Buzuku translated the Catholic liturgy into Albanian, trying to do for Albanian what Martin Luther had done for German. Meshari (The Missal) written by Gjon Buzuku was published in 1555 and is considered one of the first literary work of written Albanian during the Middle Ages. The refined level of the language and the stabilised orthography must be the result of an earlier tradition of written Albanian, a tradition that is not well understood. However, there is some fragmented evidence, pre-dating Buzuku, which indicates that Albanian was written from at least the 14th century.

Parashqevi Qiriazi – teacher and feminist (1880–1970)

Albanian writings from these centuries must not have been religious texts only, but historical chronicles too. They are mentioned by the humanist

Siege of Shkodër (Rrethimi i Shkodrës) from 1504, confirms that he leafed through such chronicles written in the language of the people (in vernacula lingua) as well as his famous biography of Skanderbeg Historia de vita et gestis Scanderbegi Epirotarum principis
(History of Skanderbeg) from 1508. The History of Skanderbeg is still the foundation of Skanderbeg studies and is considered an Albanian cultural treasure, vital to the formation of Albanian national self-consciousness.

During the 16th and the 17th centuries, the

Lekë Matrënga, (Doktrina e krishterë) (The Christian Doctrine) from 1618 and (Rituale romanum) 1621 by Pjetër Budi, the first writer of original Albanian prose and poetry, an apology for George Castriot (1636) by Frang Bardhi, who also published a dictionary and folklore creations, the theological-philosophical treaty Cuneus Prophetarum (The Band of Prophets) (1685) by Pjetër Bogdani, the most universal personality of Albanian Middle Ages, were published in Albanian. The most famous Albanian writer in the 20th and 21st century is probably Ismail Kadare
.

Sports

Albania participated at the

National Olympic Committee of Albania since 1972. The nation has participated at the Mediterranean Games since the games of 1987 in Syria. The Albanian athletes have won a total of 43 (8 gold, 17 silver and 18 bronze) medals from 1987 to 2013
.

Arena Kombëtare in central Tirana

Popular sports in Albania include

Football Association of Albania (Albanian: Federata Shqiptare e Futbollit, F.SH.F.), which has membership in FIFA and UEFA
.

The

.

Weightlifting is one of the most successful individual sport for the Albanians, with the national team winning medals at the European Weightlifting Championships and the rest international competitions. Albanian weightlifters have won a total of 16 medals at the European Championships with 1 of them being gold, 7 silver and 8 bronze. In the World Weightlifting Championships, the Albanian weightlifting team has won in 1972 a gold in 2002 a silver and in 2011 a bronze medal.

Diaspora

Historically, the Albanian people have established several communities in many regions throughout Southern Europe. The Albanian diaspora has been formed since the late Middle Ages, when they emigrated to places such as Italy, especially in Sicily and Calabria, and Greece to escape either various socio-political difficulties or the Ottoman conquest of Albania.[371] Following the fall of communism, large numbers of Albanians have migrated to countries such as Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Scandinavia, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the United States. Albanian minorities are present in the neighbouring territories such as the west of North Macedonia, the east of Montenegro, Kosovo in its entirety and southern Serbia. In Kosovo, Albanians are the largest ethnic group in the country. Altogether, the number of ethnic Albanians living abroad is estimated to be higher than the total population inside Albania.

See also

Notes

  1. Gheg Albanian: Shqipni or Shqipnia, also Shqypni or Shqypnia.[7]
  2. ^ pronounced [ɾɛpuˈblika ɛ ʃcipəˈɾisə].

References

  1. ^ "Albania". The World Factbook (2024 ed.). Central Intelligence Agency. Retrieved 1 November 2021. (Archived 2021 edition)
  2. ^ "Popullsia e Shqipërisë" (in Albanian). Instituti i Statistikës (INSTAT). 26 March 2020. Archived from the original on 22 August 2022. Retrieved 22 August 2022.
  3. ^ a b c "Population and Housing Census 2011" (PDF). Instituti i Statistikës (INSTAT). Archived from the original (PDF) on 26 August 2020. Retrieved 21 September 2020.
  4. ^ a b c d "World Economic Outlook Database, October 2023 Edition. (Albania)". IMF.org. International Monetary Fund. 10 October 2023. Retrieved 11 October 2023.
  5. ^ "Gini coefficient of equivalised disposable income – EU-SILC survey". ec.europa.eu. Eurostat. Retrieved 12 August 2021.
  6. ^ "Human Development Report 2021/2022" (PDF). United Nations Development Programme. 8 September 2022. Archived (PDF) from the original on 9 October 2022. Retrieved 8 September 2022.
  7. ^ Giacomo Jungg (1 January 1895). Fialuur i voghel scc...p e ltinisct mle...un prei P. Jak Junkut t' Scocniis ... N'Sckoder t' Scc...pniis. Retrieved 23 July 2016 – via Internet Archive.
  8. . p. 108.
  9. .
  10. ^ "Albania". The World Bank. Archived from the original on 21 September 2014. Retrieved 13 September 2014.
  11. ^ Reports: Poverty Decreases in Albania After Years of Growth. Dow Jones Newswires, 201-938-5500 201-938-5500 201-938-5500.Nasdaq.com
  12. Balkan Peninsula
    . Rowman & Littlefield, 2007. p. 146.
  13. ), Map 49 & notes.
  14. , page 279,"We cannot be certain that the Arbanon of Anna Comnena is the same as Albanopolis of the Albani, a place located on the map of Ptolemy (3.12)"
  15. ^ Madgearu & Gordon 2008, p. 25. "It is still disputed by scholars that those Albanoi from 1042 were Normans from Sicily, [Southern Italy], or if they are in fact the Albanoi [a large clan of that belongs to the many clans of Albanians] found in Albanian lands during this time frame."
  16. ^ Robert Elsei. The Albanian lexicon of Dion Von Kirkman. Earliest reference to the existence of the Albanian language, pp. 113–122.
  17. ^ "pinocacozza.it". pinocacozza.it. Archived from the original on 30 December 2019. Retrieved 23 November 2007.
  18. ^ a b Matasović, Ranko (2019). A Grammatical Sketch of Albanian for Students of Indo European (PDF). Zagreb. p. 39. Archived (PDF) from the original on 9 October 2022.{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: location missing publisher (link)
  19. .
  20. ^ Kristo Frasheri. History of Albania (A Brief Overview). Tirana, 1964.
  21. ^ Lloshi, Xhevat. "The Albanian Language" (PDF). United Nations Development Programme. Archived from the original (PDF) on 9 July 2011. Retrieved 9 November 2010.
  22. ^ F. Prendi, "The Prehistory of Albania", The Cambridge Ancient History, 2nd edn., vol. 3, part 1: The Prehistory of the Balkans; and the Middle East and the Aegean World, Tenth to Eighth Centuries B.C., ed. John Boardman et al. (Cambridge: Cambridge UP, 1982), 189–90.
  23. ^ Bunguri, Adem (2014). "Different models for the Neolithisation of Albania". Documenta Praehistorica. 32.
  24. ISSN 2352-409X
    .
  25. . Retrieved 7 January 2023.
  26. . : Supplementary Materials
  27. ^ Gori, Maja; Recchia, Giulia; Tomas, Helen (2018). "The Cetina phenomenon across the Adriatic during the 2nd half of the 3rd millennium BC: new data and research perspectives". 38° Convegno Nazionale Sulla Preistoria, Protostoria, Storia della Daunia: 201.
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Further reading

External links

Wikimedia Atlas of Albania

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