Geography
Albania is a small European country located on the Adriatic and Ionian Seas. Geographically, it is bordered by Greece to the south and Kosovo, Montenegro, and North Macedonia to the northeast. With a total area of 28,748 km2, it is the 139th largest country in the world. It has a diverse climate and is home to mountain ranges and coastal areas with sandy beaches. Let’s explore further the geographical features of this beautiful country.
Location
Albania is a southeastern European country located on the Adriatic and Ionian Seas within the Mediterranean Sea. It shares land borders with four other countries: Montenegro to the northwest, Kosovo to the northeast, North Macedonia to the east, and Greece to the south. Albania is slightly larger than Maryland, and its total area is 11,000 square miles (28,748 km2).
The total length of Albania’s coastline is 476 miles (766 km). The country also has 300 small islands situated on both seas. The ancient Illyrian mountains stretch across northern Albania. They are home to some of Europe’s highest peaks, while south of them lies lowland areas along with small coastal plains near Tirana, Durres, Vlora, and Saranda. This varied geography offers a wide range of climates, from cool Mediterranean weather along the coast to warm, humid summers in the south. In summer, average temperatures reach up to 26 degrees Celsius, while in winter, they can drop below 0 degrees Celsius in some areas.
Overall, Albania finds itself in an ideal location for agricultural production, boasting a temperate climate and rich soil suitable for various crops such as wheat, corn, barley, olives, and potatoes, from which its citizens can benefit greatly.
Climate
Albania has a diverse climate, stemming from its varied topography and two distinct climates of the Mediterranean and continental. The warm Mediterranean waters of the Adriatic sea significantly influence the mild climate of Albania’s west coast. On the other hand, the east coast has more extreme conditions with colder winters than the west coast due to the mountainous regions on that side. Summers are hot and dry in both climates, which is typical for a Mediterranean region.
The winter months October through March, are generally wetter in Albania, especially along its mountainous terrain, while summer nights tend to be cool with periodic sunshine throughout daylight hours. Overall temperatures vary greatly depending on elevation and proximity to coastal areas, and several planted forests blanket certain parts of Albania, offering protection from heavy winds or erosion. Average temperatures in winter normally range between 4-14°C (40-58°F) between January and February, while summer temperatures can reach up to 35°C (95°F).
Landscape
Albania is located in southeastern Europe, bordered to the north and east by Montenegro, to the east by Kosovo and North Macedonia, to the south by Greece, and to the west by the Adriatic Sea. The country has a stunning landscape that presents a range of environmental conditions, from lush grasslands in the south, sharp mountains and gorges in central Albania, and rolling hills along with farmland in the north.
The highest mountain peak is Mount Korab, at 2,751 meters (9,025 feet). The rest of Albania’s mountains can be found in its highland ranges, such as the Albanian Alps in the north and the Ceraunian Mountains, along with the Accursed Mountains at the southern border of Montenegro. Dense forests still cover around 28% of Albania’s landmass and are mostly present on its highlands ranges.
River valleys are abundant throughout this region, along with amazing lakes like Koman Lake or Ohrid Lake. Some 400 rivers span over 3200 kilometers (2000 miles) across Albania’s landscape, including two main circulation systems as, Vjosa-Buna, running through much of western Albania towards the northern Mediterranean Sea, and the Seman/Shkumbin circulations system running towards the southwestern Balkans region.
Albania holds numerous hot springs that have been used since Roman times for their medicinal properties, such as Bovilla Hot Springs near Tirana or similarly located Hot Springs toward Albanian Coast Gulf, both under the patent of Ministries for Health & Territorial Administration, respectively since 2003 & 2004.
History
Albania has a vibrant history that dates back to antiquity. The Illyrians were the first settlers in Albania, and by the 4th century BC, they had an established kingdom. During the Middle Ages, the region was the site of several empires and kingdoms, many of which left an indelible mark on Albania’s culture, language, and music. Also, Albania has a rich heritage of religious tolerance, with a mixture of Eastern and Western faiths being practiced by its people. Let’s take a look at the interesting facts about Albania’s past.
Ancient History
Albania has a long recorded history of habitation. Ancient Illyrians are considered the ancestors of today’s Albanians. Ancient Greece and Rome strongly influenced Albania’s development, as did Christianity, which was adopted in the fourth century AD. The Ottoman Empire controlled Albania from the 15th century until 1912, when an independent Albanian state was formed following several centuries of struggle. During World War II, Nazi Germany invaded Albania and set up a conclave government that sought to join with Axis powers during World War II. In 1944, partisan resistance forces drove out occupying troops and established a communist-led government that declared independence in 1946 under Enver Hoxha and the Party of Labor. During this period, virtually all religious rights were denied citizens, including Muslims and Christian Orthodox communities leading to heavy persecution throughout Communist rule from 1945 to 1992 until the fall of Communism in Europe could be seen across the entire Balkan peninsula. In 1991 however, despite political turmoil in Yugoslavia, Albania held peaceful transitions towards democracy which ultimately led to multiparty elections in 1991 and finally full independence for the Republic of Albania on November 28th, 1912.
Ottoman Rule
Albania began under Ottoman rule in the 15th century, lasting nearly five centuries until 1912. Albanians were mainly Muslim during this time, although large Christian and small Jewish populations also existed. The Ottomans established a bureaucracy that conducted many of their affairs according to Islamic law. This included taxation, law enforcement, and military service obligations upon non-Muslims living in the country.
Albania experienced great upheaval during Ottoman rule as many rebellions occurred where the local population attempted to attain self-governance through full autonomy or autonomy within the Ottoman Empire framework. Some of the more notable rebellions were led by Skanderbeg in 1443 and again in 1463 against Ottoman forces as well as in 1843 against Albanian Muslims. In addition to these rebellions, boycotts caused by heavy taxation and a system that kept Christians from holding higher office inhibited the economy’s growth during this period.
The Ottomans eventually lost control over Albania following the defeat by Serbian forces in 1912 during the First Balkan War. The country declared its independence for several years before being occupied by Italy during World War I on February 14th, 1914, with a proclamation from Prime Minister Benjamin Deligiozu officially forming the Republic of Albania at that time.
Communist Rule
From the end of World War II until the early 1990s, Albania was part of the communist Eastern Bloc, ruled by its dictator Enver Hoxha. During this period, the country suffered severe economic conditions and restrictions on its freedom.
The country declared itself a socialist republic in 1976, and much of the economy was restructured to follow a totalitarian system. This included nationalizing most industries and emphasizing central planning over market forces. In addition, private property was made illegal, and citizens were heavily monitored by their government.
Nevertheless, Albanians tried to live as normally as possible amid these restrictions and found ways to express their resistance to communism without fear of official retribution. Music proved popular during this time, and folk singers often communicated messages that could not be expressed publicly. Books were also heavily restricted, with only state-approved books being allowed in circulation; however, black market copies still circulated the nation for those who desired them.
Under communist rule, Albania experienced much repression yet remained faithful in its quest for a better life for its citizens despite having its freedoms restricted for 45 years until democratic reforms began taking shape at the start of the new millennium with hopes for a brighter future ahead.
People and Culture
The people of Albania have a unique and diverse culture that Orthodox and Islamic traditions heavily influence. Albanians are known to be hospitable and welcoming towards foreigners, who are greeted with the traditional Albanian phrase “Mire se vini.” The population of Albania is estimated to be around 2.9 million, with a mix of different ethnic and religious backgrounds. The most spoken language is Albanian, but many people also speak Greek, Turkish and Italian. Let’s look at some interesting facts about the people and culture of Albania.
Language
Albania, an officially recognized language in the Balkan Peninsula, is known for its distinct dialects and vocabulary. Albanian is a non-Indo-European language that displays numerous similarities with Ancient Greek, Latin, and even certain languages of the Caucasus region, such as Georgian. Albania’s official language is Modern Standard Albanian which traces its origin to several centuries ago when tribal leaders used it to communicate petitions to Ottoman authorities. In addition to this standard version of the language, locals prefer using their regional dialects as they find them more convenient and simpler when talking with one another. This means several distinct dialects are present throughout the region thanks to its diverse geography and culture. For example, Albanians from central and northern regions typically use the Tosk dialect, whereas those in the south tend to communicate with the Gheg dialect. Furthermore, there are selected varieties of proto-Albanian verbs, which are rarely spoken due to their archaism. However, these still serve as a valuable source of enticement for linguists who try to trace back the evolution process of Albanians’ preserved vocabularies.
Religion
Albania is a very diverse country regarding religious beliefs. The two main religions are Islam, predominantly practiced by Albanians, and Christianity, mostly practiced by the Slavic population of Albania. According to the 2011 census, 58.70% of the population is Muslim and 10.03% is Orthodox Christian, making Albania one of the few places in Europe where Muslims form a majority of the population.
Ethnic Albanians are traditionally either Muslim or Catholic Christians, although some Eastern Orthodox believers are also among them. There have been several important religious figures within this country, such as Skanderbeg – an important figure during Ottoman rule who stood up to help promote freedom from their occupying forces.
The minority populations residing in Albania include Roman Catholics and Protestants from indigenous groups such as Greeks and Vlachs, along with Aromanians and Macedonians. Other religions observed within this nation include Judaism and Bektashi Sufi Islam, among other sects or organizations of religion that thrive heavily throughout its communities’ practices. Furthermore, due to its location, many cultures have adopted local customs and traditions to support their family lives which also involves spiritual elements amidst it all!
Music
Music traditionally plays an important role in Albanian culture, particularly within the Gheg and Tosk regions, where various influences and ranges from mandolin-driven folk music to urban ballads and improvisational songs characterize it. Many musical instruments are played by Albanian musicians, including flutes, drums, the çifteli (a two-stringed fiddle or lute), accordions, violins, and bagpipe.
Much of Albania’s modern music comes from its traditional roots—music made by working people in the fields and villages of northern Albania that incorporates a diversity of elements unique to the region. These folk styles are often accompanied by lyrics about historical battles or love stories; many epic tales can be thought to have originated as ballads passed through generations. Percussion instruments such as drums play an important role in accompaniment. Other musical forms found in Albania include reggae, hip-hop, jazz, and rock.
The most famous classical composers born in Albania include Teodor Laço Shkoza (who wrote the anthem for independent Albania), Aleksandër Peçi (who wrote a song cycle included several pieces of symphonic poetry), and Avni Mula (who composed strings for some of the country’s first film scores). Additionally, many popular songs have been composed since World War II during Communist rule as entertainment for political meetings and festivals, straying away from traditional music forms altogether.
Albania has produced several internationally known performers, such as Ramizja Lulzim Lushi (known professionally as Sajmir Lushi). He rose to fame in Western Europe and America after releasing his debut album “Albania,” which included popular hits such as “Rruga Tim,” among others that helped establish him globally. He collaborated with Italian powerhouse producers like Duede Dede, who helped produce his follow-up album “External City.” He is considered one of the original pioneers in contemporary Albanian pop music.
Economy
Albania has experienced impressive economic growth in recent years, mainly due to its adopted reforms and its integration with international markets. With its growing economy, Albania has been able to reduce poverty and improve living standards. It has also attracted foreign investors and tourists. This section will look at the various factors contributing to the nation’s economic success.
Industry
The main industries in Albania are food processing, textiles, lumber and furniture, and oil products. In addition, Albania’s agricultural sector contributes heavily to its economy. The main crops produced in the country include corn, grains, potatoes, vegetables, and fruits. Other industries, such as energy production and vehicles, are also important economic contributors.
Albania has seen significant growth in the industrial sector over the past few years. This growth is expected to continue as more and more foreign investments pour into the country. Important projects that have been developed in Albania’s manufacturing and technology sectors include oil production, electronics industry (phone production), automotive industry (cars), and shipbuilding (shipyards).
In addition to its activities in the manufacturing sector, Albanian companies also have strong ties with other countries in Europe and beyond. These ties help Albania increase its exports of products ranging from machinery to furniture to foodstuffs such as cheese or dairy. The country also participates in increasing joint projects with other countries or international organizations that relate directly or indirectly to productive activities such as infrastructure development or joint investments in renewable energy sources, for instance.
Agriculture
Agriculture is one of the most important industries in Albania and accounts for roughly one-fifth of the nation’s GDP. The country’s agricultural output consists mainly of vegetables and fruits such as peaches, olives, figs, and grapes. Cattle, sheep, and pigs are also found in great numbers, while bee-keeping is an industry that continues to grow.
Arable land comprises around 55% of the total land area, with 340,000 hectares (840,000 acres) under cultivation. Albania’s fertile soils produce a variety of grains, such as wheat, barley, and maize. Vegetables are produced in large quantities as well. Potatoes have become popular recently; other vegetables grown include tomatoes, cabbage, onions, and bell peppers.
Despite the presence of arable land, obstacles exist that prevent Albania from fully utilizing its agricultural resources. The infrastructure is currently inadequate for modern agro-industrial production; additionally, most farmers still use traditional farming methods without machinery or improved crop varieties. In addition to traditional forms of agriculture, large-scale industrial agribusinesses operate in the country, such as dairy production facilities or greenhouses for vegetable cultivation. Still, these remain relatively small when compared with their European counterparts.
Tourism
Albania’s tourism sector has undergone tremendous growth over the past decade. Travelers worldwide have been drawn to its stunning landscapes, archaeological sites, rich culture, and diverse fauna and flora. Among Albania’s most popular tourist attractions are its numerous beaches, mountain resorts, and cultural heritage sites. The country is also known as an eco-destination due to its abundant and diverse wildlife.
Albania offers a variety of activities to suit different tastes, including mountain biking, mountaineering, camping, bird watching, and surfing, among others. The Albanian Riviera is one of the most scenic places in Europe, with crystal clear bays along a pristine coastline of white sandy beaches and rocky cliffs. In addition, nature lovers can explore the breathtaking beauty of Lake Ohrid and Albania’s charming national parks, such as Shkodra Lake National Park or Olive tree National Park where unique species of animals can be found living in harmony with each other.
The village lifestyle will give visitors a taste of traditional rural culture with many historical attractions scattered across the country, such as ancient amphitheaters or majestic castles that even predate the Ottoman Empire’s rule over this region. This will bring tourists back to centuries ago, giving them an unforgettable experience discovering Albania’s unique beauty.
Miscellaneous
Albania is an interesting country located on the Balkan Peninsula in Southeastern Europe. It has a rich culture and history, with many interesting facts that will make you want to learn more about Albania. This section will cover some of the lesser-known facts about this fascinating country, from interesting geographical features to unique cultural celebrations.
Flag
The current flag of Albania is a red flag with a silhouette of a double-headed eagle in the center. This combination of colors and symbols has been used continuously for over two centuries to represent the Albanian people. Before this, various designs and flags were used to signal allegiance and loyalty to different historical rulers. However, from 1804 onwards the red and double-headed eagle combination has remained unchanged.
The silhouette of the eagle in its center is said to be an homage to mythology and history since the double-headed eagle was often present on coins found in archaeological sites dating back thousands of years in what is now modern-day Albania. The single head represents bravery in battle, resilience, power, and glory, while the two signify wisdom, courage, unity, and protection for all who live under its protection. The inclusion of both black and red on the flag is thought to symbolize Albanian arms and blood spilled throughout their history from battles fought against external forces.
National Anthem
The national anthem of Albania is “Himni I Flamurit” (“Hymn to the Flag”). It was adopted in 1912 during the Albanian Declaration of Independence and is known for its patriotic lyrics and strong message. The music was composed by Ciprian Porumbescu (1853–1883), and the lyrics were written by Aleksandër Stavre Drenova (1872–1947). The words evoke images of Albanian pride, family ties, patriotism, freedom, justice, and sacrifice for the nation. Most use this anthem as a show of their national pride. When it is played on television or radio, it is customary to stand when it is performed as a sign of respect. Special holidays, such as Flag Day or Independence Day, may be sung outdoors in public gatherings or schools.
National Holidays
Albania observes many national holidays commemorating special events or honoring important figures of Albanian history. Of the many days celebrated, six public holidays come with a paid day off from work or school.
The most grandly celebrated special day is Albanian National Day, held annually on November 28th to celebrate Albania’s restored independence in 1912 after five centuries of Ottoman rule. On June 10th, Flag Day celebrates the proclaimed unity of ethnic minorities in Albania. People will march through cities wearing traditional clothing and displaying flags with patterns and designs representing local disciplines and customs.
In February, owners of Ghegs (a breed of super-sized guard dog) participate in a sheep-guarding competition known as Grabovë, celebrating the nation’s centuries-long tradition of protecting livestock. But one of the more unusual holidays is Zombie Day celebrated on March 14th which originated as an occasion for comedic punk-rock concerts held late at night involving dancers dressed as zombies out searching for “the living” to join in their revelry!
Other important national holidays include New Year’s Day (January 1st), Spring Holiday (March 14th – 21st), Independence March 1st, and Summer Solstice Day (June 21st).