Albania

Albania, officially the Republic of Albania, is a country in Southeast Europe. It lies in the Balkans, along the Adriatic and Ionian Seas within the Mediterranean Sea. It shares land borders with Montenegro to the northwest, Kosovo to the northeast, North Macedonia to the east, and Greece to the south. The country covers 28,748 km² (11,100 sq mi) and features diverse landscapes, from tall snow-covered mountains like the Albanian Alps to flat coastal plains. Its capital and largest city is Tirana, with other important cities including Durrës, Vlorë, and Shkodër.

Albania has a long and interesting history. It was first home to several Illyrian tribes, such as the Ardiaei and Taulantians. Ancient Greeks set up trading towns along the coast, like Apollonia. Later, the area became part of the Roman Empire and then the Byzantine Empire. In the 15th century, a famous leader named Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg led resistance against invaders. Albania declared independence in 1912 after centuries under other powers.

Today, Albania is a developing country with a growing economy. Many people work in services, but tourism is also important, with over 11 million visitors in 2024. The country provides universal health care and free schooling for children. Albania is working toward joining the European Union, with discussions ongoing since 2022.

Etymology

Main article: Names of the Albanians and Albania

The name "Albania" comes from old stories and maps. Long ago, a group of people called the Illyrians lived in the area, and one of their tribes was known as the Albani. An ancient writer named Ptolemy wrote about a place called Albanopolis near a city named Durrës. There was also a place called Albanon, which might be the same as Albanopolis.

In the year 1079, a writer named Michael Attaliates wrote about people called Albanians who were part of a big event in a city called Constantinople. Over time, the people there called their home Arbëri or Arbëni, and themselves Arbëreshë. Later, they started using the words Shqipëri or Shqipëria, which mean "Children of the Eagles" or "Land of the Eagles".

History

Main article: History of Albania

Prehistory

Main article: Prehistory of Albania

The earliest people in Albania lived close to the coast and in caves. They used tools made from stone and bone, similar to those from a culture known as Aurignacian. Around 7000 BC, people began to raise sheep and goats and started small farms. Over time, communities used natural materials like bitumen for decorating pottery, keeping water out, and fixing broken items.

Antiquity

Main article: Antiquity in Albania

Albania was home to many groups, including Illyrian and Epirote tribes, as well as Greek colonies along the coast. The Illyrian tribe called the Taulanti was one of the first powerful groups. They fought against famous leaders like Alexander the Great. Later, the Ardiaei tribe grew powerful under King Agron and his wife Teuta. However, the Romans eventually took control of the area by 167 BC, dividing it into three parts.

Middle Ages

After the Roman Empire split, the Slavs moved into the area, changing the population. In the 11th century, the split between the Eastern Orthodox and Western Catholic churches created differences in Albania. The Principality of Arbanon was established in 1190 as an early Albanian state. Later, Serbs and Venetians tried to control the land. By the 14th century, several Albanian principalities formed, and in the 15th century, the Ottoman Empire began its invasion.

Ottoman Empire

See also: Albanian rebellion against the Ottoman Empire

The Ottoman Empire took control of Albania in the 15th century. Many Albanians fled to Europe, while others faced heavy taxes and were forced to serve in the army. Despite these challenges, Albanian leaders like Skanderbeg united forces to resist the Ottomans for many years. However, the Ottomans eventually took over, bringing changes to the religious and cultural life of the people.

Rilindja

See also: League of Prizren

The Albanian Renaissance was a time of cultural and intellectual growth in the late 18th and 19th centuries. Albanians sought to protect their lands and create a united nation. They formed groups like the League of Prizren to defend their territory against neighboring countries. Though they faced challenges, this period laid the groundwork for an independent Albania.

Independence

Main article: Independent Albania

See also: Albanian Declaration of Independence

Further information: Massacres of Albanians in the Balkan Wars

Albania declared independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1912. The country faced challenges from neighbors and internal conflicts. A prince was chosen to lead, but his rule was short-lived due to ongoing struggles. The years following independence were marked by political instability and foreign influence.

First Republic

See also: World War I and World War II in Albania

After World War I, Albania struggled with economic problems and political uncertainty. Different leaders tried to bring stability, but foreign countries like Italy and Greece had strong influences. In 1939, Italy invaded Albania, leading to years of occupation during World War II. Albanian resistance groups eventually helped liberate the country.

Socialist Republic

Main article: Communism in Albania

Further information: Expulsion of Cham Albanians

In 1944, Enver Hoxha established a government based on strict rules and ideas from Marx and Lenin. His regime limited personal freedoms, controlled the economy, and focused on building industries and schools. Despite progress in some areas, the country faced poverty and strict control for many years.

Fourth Republic

Main article: Fall of communism in Albania

When communism ended in the late 1980s, Albania went through big changes. Unfortunately, many people lost money in risky investments, leading to protests and a civil war in 1997. International help brought peace, and the country began to rebuild.

Contemporary

See also: Accession of Albania to the EU and NATO

Further information: 2019 Albania earthquake and COVID-19 pandemic in Albania

Albania has worked toward joining the European Union and became a member of NATO in 2009. The country has focused on improving its economy and government. In 2019, a strong earthquake caused damage, and in 2020, Albania faced challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these difficulties, Albania continues to move forward with reforms and development.

Geography

Main article: Geography of Albania

Albania is a country in Southeast Europe, located on the Balkan Peninsula along the Mediterranean Sea. It shares borders with Montenegro to the northwest, Kosovo to the northeast, North Macedonia to the east, and Greece to the south. The country covers an area of 28,748 km² (11,100 sq mi).

Albania has a varied landscape with mountains, hills, and lakes. The northern part features the Albanian Alps, while the east includes the Korab Mountains. The country has several important lakes, such as the Lake of Shkodër, one of Southern Europe's largest lakes. Rivers like the Drin flow through Albania and empty into the Adriatic and Ionian Seas.

Climate

Main article: Climate of Albania

Albania experiences a mix of Mediterranean and Continental climates. Coastal areas are warm, while mountainous regions are colder. The country has four distinct seasons, with winter temperatures sometimes dropping below 0 °C and summer temperatures often reaching around 22 °C. Rainfall is common in the winter and varies across the country, with some mountainous areas receiving heavy precipitation.

Biodiversity

Main article: Biodiversity of Albania

See also: Ecoregions in Albania

Albania is rich in wildlife due to its diverse landscapes. The country is home to animals such as the lynx, brown bear, and golden eagle, which is the national animal. Birdlife includes species like the greater flamingo and dalmatian pelican. Albania’s forests contain trees such as oak, beech, and pine.

Conservation

Albania participates in international efforts to protect nature. The country has many protected areas, including national parks like Butrint, Vjosa, and Prespa. These areas help safeguard wildlife and natural landscapes. Albania is also part of global agreements aimed at preserving biodiversity and addressing environmental challenges.

Protected areas

Main article: Protected areas of Albania

Albania has 12 national parks and many other protected areas. These include the Albanian Alps National Park, Prespa National Park, and Butrint National Park. These parks protect important mountains, lakes, and coastal regions, helping to preserve the country’s natural beauty and wildlife.

Environmental issues

Main article: Environmental issues in Albania

Albania faces environmental challenges such as air and water pollution, climate change, and the need for better waste management. The country is working to reduce its impact on the environment and protect its natural resources for the future. Climate change is causing more frequent floods and other natural disasters, which can affect communities and the economy.

Politics

Main article: Politics of Albania

See also: Government of Albania

Since declaring independence in 1912, Albania has gone through many changes in its government. It has had times of monarchy, communism, and is now a democratic country. In 1998, Albania became a sovereign parliamentary constitutional republic. The country’s government is based on a constitution and follows the principle of separation of powers. This means there are three main parts to the government: the Parliament, which makes laws; the President, who is the head of state; and the Prime Minister, who runs the government. There are also courts to make sure laws are followed.

Albania works closely with other countries. It joined the United Nations in 1955 and became a member of NATO in 2009. Albania is also working toward joining the European Union. The country has strong ties with Kosovo, supporting its independence and development.

Main article: Armed Forces of Albania

Albania’s military includes land, air, and naval forces. Their job is to protect the country’s independence and help in peace operations around the world. People can choose to join the military when they are 19 years old.

Main article: Administrative divisions of Albania

See also: Counties of Albania, Regions of Albania, Municipalities of Albania, Communes of Albania, and Villages of Albania

Albania is divided into twelve counties. The largest county by population is Tirana County, and the smallest is Gjirokastër County. These counties are further divided into municipalities, which take care of local needs and services.

Economy

Main article: Economy of Albania

Albania changed from a planned economy to a more open market system and is now considered a developing country with middle-income status. The service sector makes up a big part of the economy, including trade, tourism, real estate, and logistics. Industry, especially construction, and agriculture, such as farming and fishing, also play important roles.

In 2025, Albania's total economy was worth about $26.9 billion, with each person contributing around $9,474 to that total. The country has grown by about 3.8% each year recently and has made trade deals with the European Union, Turkey, the United Kingdom, and others. Challenges include corruption and needing better rules for businesses.

The biggest economic area is around the cities of Tirana, Durrës, and Laç, where much of the country’s wealth is created. Other important places include Elbasan and coastal towns like Sarandë and Vlorë. Tourism has grown a lot, with millions of visitors coming to enjoy beaches, mountains, and historic cities each year.

Demographics

Main article: Demography of Albania

See also: Albanian people and Origin of the Albanians

Albania's population, as counted in the 2023 census, is 2,402,113. This is smaller than the 2011 count of 2,821,977. The decrease began after the end of communist rule and is linked to changes in politics, economy, and society. Main reasons include fewer babies being born and many people moving out of the country. The population is spread unevenly, with the most people living in Tirana and Durrës. These two counties hold about 41% of all Albanians, with Tirana alone having 32% and Durrës 9%. Rural areas like Gjirokastër and Kukës have far fewer people.

Albanians have lived in many parts of Southern Europe for a long time. After communism ended, many moved to countries such as Australia, Canada, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States. There are also Albanians in North Macedonia, Montenegro, Kosovo, and Serbia. Today, more Albanians live outside Albania than inside, and about a third of people born in Albania now live elsewhere.

Urbanisation

Main article: List of cities and towns in Albania

Since 1991, when communism ended, Albania's cities have grown fast. The Tirana–Durrës area along the western coast is the most crowded part of the country. It attracts many people from smaller towns and villages. Even though the total number of people in Albania has gone down, the part living in cities rose from 47% in 2001 to 65% in 2023. This growth has caused problems, with some areas like Dibër and Kukës losing people.

Language

Main article: Languages of Albania

See also: Albanian language

Albanian is the official language, spoken by most people. It has two main types, Gheg and Tosk, with Tosk used more in writing. The river Shkumbin separates the two. Some people speak other languages at home, such as Greek, Aromanian, Serbo-Croatian, Macedonian, Bulgarian, Gorani, and Roma. In schools, children learn Albanian first, then a foreign language like English, Italian, French, or German.

Minorities

Main article: Minorities of Albania

Albania recognizes several minority groups, including Aromanian, Greek, Macedonian, Montenegrin, Serb, Roma, Egyptian, Bosnian, and Bulgarian people, as well as Gorani and Jews. The 2023 census showed most people were Albanian (91.04%), with smaller groups making up the rest.

Religion

Main article: Religion in Albania

See also: Albanian paganism

Albania has no official religion and allows all religions. Many people follow different beliefs. In 2023, about 45.86% were Sunni Muslims, 8.38% were Catholics, 7.22% were Eastern Orthodox, and 4.81% were Bektashi Muslims. Other groups include Evangelicals, and some people have no religion or are not sure. Overall, Albania is one of the least religious countries in the world.

Education

Main article: Education in Albania

Education in Albania is free and required for children from age six to sixteen. Students learn Albanian first, then a foreign language such as English, Italian, French, or German. After primary school, students can choose to study many subjects, including arts, sports, languages, sciences, and technology. There are both public and private universities where students can study for a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate degree.

Health

Main article: Health in Albania

Albania’s government provides free healthcare to all citizens. The healthcare system is improving. People in Albania live about 77.8 years on average. The most common cause of death is heart disease. Albania has a good supply of fruits and vegetables and a lower rate of obesity compared to many other countries, partly because of its Mediterranean-style diet.

Culture

Main article: Culture of Albania

The red and black national colours are shown on the flag of Albania, which features a double-headed eagle. This eagle represents bravery and strength, while the red field stands for the courage and sacrifices of the Albanian people. The eagle connects to the legacy of Gjergj Kastrioti, known as Skanderbeg, who led a resistance against Ottoman rule. The design dates back to the Middle Ages and became a symbol during Albania's independence in 1912.

Albanian traditional clothing varies between the northern Gheg and southern Tosk Albanians. Gheg men wear light shirts with loose trousers called Tirq, secured with a wide belt. They also wear a woolen vest called Xhamadan and a dome-shaped hat called Qeleshe. Tosk men wear a knee-length white pleated garment called Fustanella, along with a white shirt and knee-high socks. Both men and women wear colorful earrings, rings, and necklaces, with women also wearing long shirts, aprons, and headscarves. One famous traditional garment is the Xhubleta, a bell-shaped black dress with embroidered patterns, recognized by UNESCO.

Albania's art and architecture have been shaped by many ancient and medieval influences. The country’s artistic history includes painting, pottery, sculpture, and ceramics, reflecting a mix of styles from different regions and times. The rise of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires brought Christian and Islamic art to Albania, seen in churches, mosques, and other buildings. The Albanian Renaissance in the 19th century brought new developments in literature and art, with artists inspired by Impressionism and Romanticism. Albania’s architecture shows the influence of many civilizations, from ancient castles and churches to modern buildings. Three Albanian sites are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Butrint and the historic centers of Berat and Gjirokastër.

Albanian folk music is an important part of the country’s identity, with northern and southern styles differing in tone and mood. Many songs tell stories from Albanian history, focusing on themes like honor and hospitality. The Festivali i Këngës is an annual song contest that has launched the careers of many Albanian singers. Contemporary artists like Rita Ora, Dua Lipa, and Bebe Rexha have gained international fame.

Albanian literature began to develop during the Middle Ages, with religious texts and chronicles written in the Albanian language. Important works include translations of religious texts and biographies, such as the biography of Skanderbeg. The 20th and 21st centuries have seen the rise of famous writers like Ismail Kadare.

Albanian cuisine is influenced by the country’s geography and history, with regional differences between the north and south. Common ingredients include olives, herbs, fruits, vegetables, and seafood from the Adriatic and Ionian Seas. Lamb is traditional for holidays, while dishes like Tavë kosi (a baked lamb and rice dish) and Fërgesë (a mix of peppers, tomatoes, and cheese) are national favorites. Coffee and tea are widely enjoyed, and Albania has a long history of wine production.

Popular sports in Albania include football, weightlifting, basketball, volleyball, tennis, swimming, rugby union, and gymnastics. Football is the most popular, with the national team making its first appearance in a major tournament at UEFA Euro 2016. Weightlifting has also brought many medals for Albania in European and world competitions.