Basic moments
Albania is located off the coast of the Adriatic Sea, in the western part of the Balkan Peninsula. The Strait of Otranto, 75 km wide, separates Albania from Italy. Albania borders on Serbia and Montenegro, Macedonia and Greece. The area is 28.7 thousand km². The population of Albania is about 3.4 million people. The capital is the city of Tirana.
Albania gained its independence in 1912, before that it was under the rule of Ottoman Empire. During the Second World War, from 1939 to 1944, the country was occupied by Italy. From 1944 to 1992, Albania was ruled by the communist Albanian Labor Party, which pursued a policy of artificially isolating the country from the outside world. The consequences of this are felt even now: the standard of living in Albania is one of the lowest in Europe.
Albania is a one-ethnic country, Albanians make up 97% of the population. They are the descendants of the ancient population of the Balkans - the Illyrians and Thracians. Official language countries - Albanian - not like any of European languages. Most Albanians are Sunni Muslims.
A narrow hilly plain stretches along the Albanian coast of the Adriatic. In the south, east and north it is framed by high peaked mountain ranges overgrown with forests. The highest point in the country is Mount Korabi (2764 m). In the north of Albania, on the border with Yugoslavia, rises the massif of the North Albanian Alps. Albania partially owns three large lakes - Ohrid, Shkoder (Skadar) and Prespa. The largest rivers of the country are Drin and Mati.
The climate in Albania is Mediterranean, with dry hot summers (24-25 °C) and mild rainy winters (8-9 °C). In the mountains in winter, snow lies for several months. The main natural attractions of Albania are mountains cut by deep narrow valleys and picturesque lakes, primarily Ohrid. In Albania, monuments of ancient Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman architecture, fragments of Byzantine fresco painting have been preserved. The largest cities of the country include Tirana, Durres, Shkodra, Vlora, Korca, Elbasan.
Geographic data
With the exception of the coastline, it must be admitted that all the borders of Albania were drawn artificially. Basically, they were determined at the conference of ambassadors of the great powers in London (1912-1913). During the First World War, Albania was occupied by Italian, Serbian, Greek and French troops, but in 1921 the victorious states basically confirmed earlier established boundaries. The borders were drawn in such a way as to separate the territories of compact residence of Albanians from neighboring peoples - Serbs, Montenegrins and Greeks, while trying to take into account the interests of all parties as much as possible and, if possible, use the most noticeable relief elements when drawing borders. At the same time, the lake region of western Macedonia was divided between three states - Albania, Greece and the Kingdom of Yugoslavia.
The division of the lake district between the three states was carried out in such a way that each of the parties received its share of the lowlands adjacent to the lakes. Such an artificial division, of course, influenced the passage of borders in the northern and southbound from lakes. The northbound boundary follows the line of the mountain range to the east, but is about 16 to 32 km from the watershed. The border of Albania in the extreme north and northeast - where it passes through mountainous regions - is drawn in such a way that it connects the highest points of the relief and follows the line of mountain ranges through the almost impenetrable Northern Albanian Alps (local name - Bjeshkët e Namunës) . In the section of the northwestern border between the highlands and the Adriatic, there are basically no natural boundaries, except for Lake Shkoder and a section of the Buna River to the south of it.
To the south and southwest of the lake district towards the Ionian Sea, the southeastern border of Albania does not follow landforms, but directly crosses several mountain ranges.
As a result of such drawing of borders, a rather significant part of the Albanian population ended up outside the national state, which subsequently led to numerous conflicts between the large Albanian diaspora and the authorities of the states of residence.
Attractions
The capital of Albania - Tirana - beckons to take a leisurely walk along the central streets, to get acquainted with its sights. You should start from Skenderberg Square, where the monument with the same name is located.
Also in Tirana it is worth visiting the Museum of National Culture of Albania. In addition, be sure to visit the Museum of Natural History and the Art Gallery.
The best views of Tirana open up, oddly enough, from the Cemetery of the Martyrs.
Traveling in Albania, it is worth going to ancient city Shkoder. Here you should definitely pay attention to the mosque of Sheikh Zamil Abdullah Al-Zamil. Not far from it is the Public Museum, which contains a magnificent collection of archaeological finds and unique photographs.
The city of Shkodra itself is located on the coast of Lake Skadar, so there are a lot of restaurants with fish cuisine.
In the vicinity of Shkoder, visit the Lead Mosque and the Rozafa Fortress.
In the south of the country, in the valley of the Drin River, the city of Gjirokastra is located. Here it is worth getting acquainted with the Bazaar Mosque, as well as visiting the citadel, dating from the 14th century, which towers over the city. Now it functions as the Museum of Weapons. In the lower part of the city you can visit the old Turkish baths.
Rich in sights and Durres. It was founded by the Greeks, and now the city is the second largest in the country. The heart of the city and its calling card is an imposing amphitheatre. In addition to it, it is worth getting acquainted with the Roman ruins and fortifications, as well as visiting the Archaeological Museum.
In Durres, the Venetian towers and the Ahmet Zog Palace also deserve attention.
Another Albanian city that attracts travelers is Korca. It is located on a high plateau surrounded by picturesque vegetation. This area is considered one of the cleanest places in the country.
There are no historical sights here, but tourists are offered to visit several museums. For example, the Museum of Medieval Art, as well as the Museum of Education.
In addition, there is a brewery in Korca, famous for its beer festival, which it organizes annually in August.
Well, another city popular with tourists is Berat. It is famous for its fortress, which was built here in the 14th century. The Muslim quarter of Mangalem with its unique architecture will also be of interest to travelers. In the city there are churches of the Holy Trinity and Evangelists that are very interesting for acquaintance.
Berat will be remembered for a long time and one more detail: on its narrow streets there are many old houses with many windows. Because of this, it has long been called the "city of a thousand windows." Maybe you will be lucky enough to see how the sun is reflected in these many windows. A spectacle of indescribable beauty!
Kitchen
The national cuisine of Albania is very diverse. Traditional dishes here are a mixture of Balkan traditions and European cooking features. And a good climate creates the most favorable conditions for growing a variety of vegetables and fruits, without which, of course, the local cuisine cannot do.
In all regions of the country, mutton or lamb are very popular, which are baked with lemon, spices and olive oil.
Here are a few Albanian meat dishes that you should definitely try if you come here: tav elbyusani - meat baked with yogurt; fergesa tirane - liver with tomatoes and eggs, which is cooked in a pot; burek - puff pastry pie stuffed with meat, spinach and cheese.
The local cuisine also includes seafood. Try Ohrid trout cooked with walnuts. This fish is found exclusively in Lake Ohrid.
Locals also cook tarator. This is a cold soup based on kefir or yogurt. You won't try anything like this anywhere else.
As desserts, they prefer honey and nut sweets, fruits. Baklava and pudding are often prepared based on figs and sheep's milk. Served for dessert and Albanian ice cream akullore.
From the drinks here they drink coffee, which is distinguished by its strength. From alcohol, local rakia and herbal setting "Fernet" are in special esteem.
Accommodation
With living in Albania, not everything is as good as we would like. Local hotels in last years do not reach the European level, the service leaves much to be desired.
Prices per night here start from 30 € per person. At the same time, when checking in, you should definitely make sure that everything in the room works properly.
Each of the cities has hotels of various star ratings, but the largest selection is in Tirana, Durres, Berat, and Shkodër.
There is one more nuance associated with local hotels: booking hotels here is very problematic, because they are not members of international systems booking. Tourists can only hope for good luck, and this is especially true of the summer, which is the peak of the tourist season.
Entertainment and recreation
Most of the Albanian beaches are sandy, but occasionally you can find pebble beaches. As a rule, the most comfortable beaches belong to large hotels. But the length of the beaches is pleasantly pleasing - more than 300 km! So there is enough space for everyone.
An excellent resort is the "Riviera of Flowers". This is part of the coast of the Ionian Sea from Vlore to Saranda. The resort is a combination of small and very clean beaches and old mansions converted into hotels. And here is the freshest mountain air and a light sea breeze is constantly blowing.
The most popular beaches among tourists on the Ionian coast are Velipoia, Durres, Golemi, Lezha and Divyaka.
The beaches on the Adriatic coast are great for family vacations. The best resort of the Albanian Adriatic is Dhermi. It is famous for its crystal clear water, golden sandy beaches, picturesque nature and clean mountain air.
Not far from Dhermi there is a small secluded beach of incredible beauty. Finding the way to it is not so easy, but if you really try, you can find a narrow path that leads to this amazing beach.
Two more beautiful beaches on this coast are Durres (one of the largest Albanian beaches) and St. John (ideal for young couples).
Fans of outdoor activities can go mountain climbing in the mountains of Albania, and people interested in speleology can get acquainted with the numerous caves.
Opera fans can visit the annual Mary Kraya Festival, which is held in the capital of Albania.
There are not so many nightclubs here. Most of them are located in Durres and Saranda.
shopping
You always want to bring something to remember from a trip. And a trip to Albania, of course, will not be an exception. Souvenirs can be bought here in specialized stores or in city markets. What do tourists most often buy as a souvenir of this country? Usually these are various kinds of copper gizmos, wooden pipes, colorful embroidery, national musical instruments handmade by local artisans. Rakia is often brought from Albania - local vodka.
Prices for all goods for foreigners are higher than for locals, but almost everywhere you can bargain.
Transport
Urban public transport in Albania, these are buses and minibuses with a low fare, for which you need to pay directly to the driver.
As for intercity transport, there are buses and minibuses. True, there are certain nuances: you will not find a bus station here. There is no timetable here. In such a situation, only local residents can help you out.
The situation with railway transport in Albania leaves much to be desired. The country's trains are in a deplorable state, they travel extremely slowly, and besides, they do not have latrines. It is also worth considering that there are only a few lines of traffic, and the intervals between trains are very long.
Since the country has access to two seas, many coastal cities have ports. The main one is located in Durres: ferries to Italy go from here.
There are also taxis in cities, which are easiest to find at hotels. It is extremely difficult to catch a car just in the middle of the street in the city: they don’t perceive an outstretched hand here. It is better to agree on the cost of the trip immediately.
Another option for getting around the cities of Albania is renting a car. Renting a car is quite easy: all you need is a driver's license and a credit card. True, the rental is only possible in major cities, and it will cost you from $ 25 per day.
Connection
There are two mobile operators in Albania: Albanian Mobile Communications and Vodafone Albania. Mobile communications are of good quality here. There are problems with fixed telephone communication and Internet access. Phones from which you can call outside the country are only on the streets major cities. Also, an international call can be made from a hotel or post offices.
In big cities and tourist centers there are Internet cafes.
Major Russian mobile operators offer roaming in Albania.
Safety
Today in Albania, a tourist can feel completely safe. And yet, as in any other country that is popular with tourists, caution does not hurt.
First, you should avoid buying expensive items (phones, watches) from street vendors, as they are most often stolen.
Secondly, remember that the water here is quite clean, but it is still recommended to drink bottled water.
You must be vaccinated against typhoid and polio before entering the country.
To visit the country, you need medical insurance, as tourists here are provided with free first aid only.
Business
The real estate market of Albania has become a profitable area for investment today. Construction is very cheap here, and housing prices are gradually starting to rise due to increased demand for it.
It is also profitable to engage in tourism business or the service sector here. The country is just beginning to gain popularity among tourists, so there are all the opportunities here, and most importantly, there is a need for the development of tourism infrastructure.
Real estate
The real estate market in Albania is very promising. And in recent years, Russians have begun to pay more and more attention to it.
Perhaps one of the most important advantages of the Albanian real estate market are low prices. They are much lower here than in neighboring countries. This also applies to those objects that are located in the resort towns.
Low prices are explained by the low price of land. In addition, there are a lot of agencies that sell real estate directly from developers.
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Abstract on
Geography
on the theme "Albania"
Flag and coat of arms
General information
Natural conditions and resources
Population characteristics
History of Albania
Economy
Relations with Russia
Culture and art of Albania
Last news
Used Books
General information
Albania is the least developed country in Southeast Europe (only Moldova and Ukraine are poorer than it). Located in the southeast of Europe, in the western part of the Balkan Peninsula, the Strait of Otranto separates Albania from Italy. On land it borders with Yugoslavia, Macedonia and Greece. Area - 28 748 km2, . In the past, the territory was inhabited by the Illyrians, they were called Albanians, from where the name of the country came from. The inhabitants of Albania themselves in the Middle Ages called the country "Arber", and themselves "Arbers". Religion is mostly Sunni Muslim. The official language of the country - Albanian - is not similar to any of the European languages. Capital city Tiran population: 3582 thousand people (2003).
Natural conditions and resources
The climate is subtropical, Mediterranean and temperate. Summers are hot and dry (the average temperature in July is from +24 C to +28 C, in January - +4 C in the north and up to +7 C in the south). Winter is cool and humid (from +14 C in the south to +6 C in the north). At the same time, the temperature regime strongly depends on the height of the place above sea level, therefore in some areas in winter the temperature drops to -12-20 C, and in summer it does not exceed +10 C.
Precipitation falls 600-800 mm. per year, with a maximum in autumn and spring. In mountainous areas, annual precipitation increases from 900-1200 mm. in the eastern, up to 2000-2600 mm. and more on the windward western slopes of the mountains.
The mountainous relief creates a wide variety of climatic conditions in the country. The extreme north of the country is occupied by the high North Albanian Alps with jagged ridges, steep, steep slopes and numerous gorges. Albania partially owns the three largest lakes: Ohrid, Shkoder (Skadar) and Prespa. The largest rivers in Albania are Drin and Mati. The interior of the country south of the Drina River is occupied by less high mountain ranges and ridges; it is crossed by many basins, gorges, river valleys.
In the mountainous regions of Albania, unfavorable conditions for the formation fertile soils. Thin and infertile soils are formed, and on limestones ground cover often absent altogether.
Albania - with the exception of marshy - is a mountainous country. The mountains stretch from northwest to southeast. The North Albanian Alps are in the far north. In Albania they are called "cursed mountains". The highest point of the North Albanian Alps is Mount Jezertsa (2694 m). To the east, on the border with Yugoslavia, within the Korabi ridge, there is the highest point of the country, Mount Korabit (2764 m). This entire area is located in the Drin river basin.
The bowels of the country are rich in minerals. There are reserves of natural gas and oil (in the southwestern part of the country), deposits of iron ore, chromium, copper, nickel and phosphates (in the northeast). Large deposits of coal have been discovered in the region of Tirana. Near Vlora, natural bitumen is mined.
In Albania, many wild animals have been preserved where there are sufficient reserves of surface water. Predators such as brown bears, wolves, jackals, lynxes, forest cats, and artiodactyls such as wild boar, roe deer and deer, once found throughout the country, are now pushed back to more inaccessible mountainous areas. Many wild birds (pelicans, herons, etc.) live in low-lying areas. Among the reptiles there are many snakes, lizards, there are geckos and turtles.
Characteristics of the population:
In addition to Albanians, there are about 120,000 Roma (2.8%), 66,000 Greeks (1.7%), 30,000 Macedonians (0.9%), 20,000 Aromanians (0.6%) and 20 thousand Montenegrins (0.6%), as well as small groups of Egyptians and Bulgarians. The largest cities of the country include Tiran Durres, Vlore, Korca, Elbasan.
History of Albania:
Independence of Albania was proclaimed in 1912. At the end of 1924 King Ahmet Zogu received power in Albania. In April 1939 Albania was occupied by fascist Italy, on November 29, 1944 the country was liberated. On January 11, 1946, the monarchy was overthrown and a people's republic was proclaimed.
"People's Power" carried out the nationalization of enterprises, banks, means of transport and communications, introduced a monopoly of foreign trade. Since the beginning of the 60s, Albania's cooperation with the Soviet Union has been disrupted. From 1946" People's Republic Albania" was a state of workers and working peasantry. It was controlled by the communists. In the 90s, the communist regime in Albania fell. In 1991, the first parliamentary elections were held on a multi-party basis. Political instability forced early elections to be held already in 1992. Since 1998 complicated relations with Yugoslavia.
Economy
In 1992-1997, the foundations of a transitional economy were laid. The denationalization of the economy has been carried out. In 1995-1996, economic growth was noted. The privatization of land, housing stock, transport, trade and construction has been completed. In 1997, there was a collapse of numerous financial pyramids. Depositors lost over $1.2 billion. The economy suffered a loss of 2 billion dollars. In 1997 Albania was the poorest country in Europe.
President of Albania Bamir Topi, monetary unit - "lek". Volume GDP in 2005 -- 6.9 billion Euro.
Agriculture is the most developed industry. It employs 56% of the working population. This is facilitated by the climate and good weather favoring the cultivation of many agricultural crops. Leading Industry Agriculture- crop production. Main crops: wheat, corn, rice. Industrial crops: tobacco, sugar beet, cotton. Grapes, citrus fruits, olives, and potatoes are also grown. Livestock breeding is dominated by sheep and goat breeding. The collectivization of agriculture was accompanied by land reform aimed at the elimination of large private land ownership and the provision of land to those who cultivate it.
The main mode of transport is automobile. The length of motor roads is more than 7000 km, railway lines - 720 km.
There are also developing industries, the first steps have been taken to create metallurgy, mechanical engineering, and chemistry. The mining industry is developing.
The main types of industry (industry) in Albania: food, light industry, woodworking, oil production, cement, chemical, metallurgy.
Over the past eight years, Albania has taken a course to improve trade relations, which is actively promoted by the government of the country.
There is no export tariff in Albania, the export of goods is not subject to duties. This is one of the stimulating factors for export development. The top level of import duties has been reduced to 18%. Main export items: bitumen, oil, iron-nickel and chromium ores, blister copper, cigarettes, fresh and canned fruits and vegetables.
International economic relations
Main foreign economic partner (up to 45% of turnover) long years was China. The new government declared priority cooperation with the United States and Western European countries.
Relations with Russia
In February 1949 of the year, Albania became a member Council for Mutual Economic Assistance-- organizations of the countries of the socialist bloc for economic cooperation. Soon after it, Tirana entered into trade agreements with Poland, Czechoslovakia, Hungary, Romania And Soviet Union. Technical advisors from Soviet Union and countries of Eastern Europe arrived in Albania, the Soviet Union also sent military advisers to Albania and built a submarine base on Sazansky island. After the deterioration of relations between the Soviet Union and Yugoslavia, Albania and Bulgaria were the only countries, which the Soviet Union could use to supply war materials Greek communists. After the development of nuclear weapons, strategic importance, which Albania represented for the Soviet Union, was nullified. During Soviet-Chinese split Albania supported China, which alienated her from the Soviet Union.
Culture and art of Albania
In Albania, monuments of ancient Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman architecture, fragments of Byzantine fresco painting have been preserved.
Now Albanian science, culture and art are in decline. Many museums, archives, art galleries, etc. are closed due to insufficient funding.
Previously built stadiums and other sports facilities are falling into disrepair. Albanians hope that with the development of their market economy, everything will begin to recover. Recovery of something is already beginning, but not as fast as we would like.
Republic of Albania- This is a small state, which is located on the Balkan Peninsula. For a long period of time it was in international isolation, but now the local government is making a lot of efforts to create sustainable economic relations with Western European countries.
Albania attracts tourists with its original atmosphere, clean beaches, low prices and rich archaeological heritage of the times. ancient rome, Greece and the Ottoman Empire.
general description
The country is located in the west of the Balkan Peninsula. It is washed by the waters of the Ionian and Adriatic seas. The territory of the state is characterized mainly by mountainous relief. Along with this, deep fertile valleys are located in the coastal regions. Republic of Albania in the southeast it borders with Greece, and in the east and north - with Montenegro, Macedonia and Kosovo. The Strait of Otranto separates the country from Italy. The total area is about 28.7 thousand square kilometers. A moderate subtropical and Mediterranean type of climate prevails over the territory of the state. Summers are always hot and dry here, while winters are wet and cool. Be that as it may, a big role in terms of weather is played by the altitude at which this or that region is located.
Administratively, the country is divided into 12 regions. The official currency of Albania is lek. At the same time, you can pay in most shops, hotels and restaurants in dollars or euros at an acceptable rate.
Short story
The country has a very difficult fate. According to historical information, the first inhabitants on its current territory appeared in the second century BC. They were the Illyrians, whom the Greeks called Albanians (hence the name of the state). During its existence, it has repeatedly suffered from incursions by foreign troops. From the fifteenth century until independence in 1912, it was ruled by the Turks. In 1939, the country was occupied by the Italian fascist troops, and in 1943 by Germany.
After the end of the Second World War, power in Albania was seized by the communist leader Enver Hoxha. He established a totalitarian regime here for half a century. At that time, the state was isolated from all its neighbors, and the locals did not have any true information about what was happening in the world. In 1991, the country was proclaimed a democratic republic.
Population
Despite the fact that in the state different periods dominated by the ancient Romans and Greeks, population of Albania preserved its ethnic primitiveness to the present day. According to the latest census, the population of the state is just over 3.2 million people. If we talk about ethnic composition, then 95% of the inhabitants are Albanians. In addition to them, Greeks, Romanians, Macedonians, Serbs and Gypsies live here.
Slightly more than half of the inhabitants of the country are urban dwellers. characteristic feature can be called the youth of the population. One in four Albanians is under 20 years old. This was the result of a population boom that began after the totalitarian regime of Hoxha fell. Long Turkish rule led to the fact that most of the population converted to Islam and professes it today.
Capital
The capital of Albania is the city of Tirana. It is the largest settlement in the country and plays the role of its political, commercial, cultural and economic center. The city is located 40 kilometers from the Adriatic coast on the banks of the small river Ishm. It was founded in 1614. In a short period of time, thanks to the favorable geographic location, Tirana became the center of the Albanian economy and art. As a result, since 1920 the city has been the administrative center of the country.
The only international airport in the country is located 11 kilometers away. Direct flights from our country do not fly here yet, so you can get to Albania through European cities (for example, Milan, Budapest or Vienna). As of today, it is a modern metropolis that boasts many historical sights.
tourist attraction
The country attracts tourists primarily with its rich archaeological heritage. Historical monuments dated from different eras and created under the influence of several cultures have been preserved here. In addition, many travelers note the beautiful mountain scenery, clean beaches, hospitable people and relatively low prices for everything from food to real estate. In this regard, it is not surprising that from year to year it becomes popular among visitors from different parts of the world.
The Republic of Albania (see photo below) is a small state located in the west. The independence of the country was proclaimed on November 28, 1912. Be that as it may, during the first half of the twentieth century, it was constantly under occupation. The state finally became free after the end of World War II.
Geography
As noted above, the Republic of Albania is located in the southeastern part of Europe, on the Balkan Peninsula. It is washed by the waters of the Ionian and Adriatic seas. In the northeast, it borders on Montenegro, Macedonia and Kosovo, in the southeast - on Greece, and is also separated from Italy in the west by the Strait of Otranto. The area of the state is almost 29 thousand square kilometers. According to this indicator, it occupies the 139th position on the planet.
The relief is mostly mountains and hills, which alternate with deep valleys. There are several lakes in the country. As for minerals, the bowels of the earth can be called rich in natural gas, oil, phosphates, copper, nickel and iron ore.
state structure
Considering state structure, then the country is usually called the "democratic republic of Albania". Its capital is Tirana. It is the largest city here. The state is headed by the president, and the government by the prime minister. The highest legislative body of the country is the People's Assembly (Parliament). National is lek. At the same time, on the territory of the country, along with it, the US dollar and the euro are in free circulation, which can be paid almost anywhere, anywhere.
Population
The population of the country, based on the latest census, is about 3.2 million people. In this indicator, the Republic of Albania ranks 132 in the world. The population density per square kilometer is 111 inhabitants. The average life expectancy is 80 years. The status of the state language is Albanian. At the same time, most of the locals understand and can communicate in Italian, Greek and even some Slavic languages. As for religion, the Republic of Albania is the only European state in which Islam predominates. In particular, about 70% of local residents are in its Sunni direction. Approximately 20% of Albanians practice Orthodoxy, while the rest are Catholicism and other concessions.
Climate
The country is dominated by the Mediterranean type. It is characterized by hot and dry summers and wet winters. In the month of July, the thermometers usually range from 24 to 28 degrees above zero. In January, the average temperature is 7 degrees Celsius. At the same time, one cannot fail to note the nuance that this indicator largely depends on the height above sea level. In other words, mountain regions are much colder. The temperature here can drop to 20 degrees below zero. Precipitation is usually typical for spring and autumn. In a year they usually fall in the form of rains from 600 to 800 millimeters. In the mountains, this value is much greater. Numerous reviews of tourists indicate that the Republic of Albania is the best place to visit in September. It is at this time that the weather conditions can be called the most favorable. Not the worst they are also in April and October.
Attractions
The country boasts a rich history, attractive culture, as well as picturesque nature. In this regard, from year to year for all more tourists the object of travel is the Republic of Albania. Sights from the time when its territories were under Roman rule have been well preserved to this day in the city of Durres. Here you can see the ruins of fortification walls, several castles and fortresses, as well as the Amphitheater built in the second century. Archaeological work is still being carried out in the Apollonia area, and all the finds are displayed in the local museum. One of the most interesting sights here is the so-called Mosaic House, which is surrounded by very beautiful fountains and statues. In principle, any of the cities in the country can show its visitors many interesting places.
The cultural capital of the state, its population calls the city of Shkoder. The permanent local symbol is the Sheikh Abdullah Al-Zamil Mosque. On the territory of the city there is also one of the main Orthodox shrines - the old Franciscan church. Many interesting legends and stories are connected with the Rosefan fortress. It was built in the fifth century and served to protect the trade routes that ran here. Until our time, the building has been well preserved, despite the fact that it more than once reflected long sieges and raids.
The capital of the state is especially rich in picturesque places. The main decoration of Tirana is its central square, surrounded by several rather interesting buildings. These include an international hotel and a historical museum.
Albania is a country with a difficult destiny and a strong character. Despite its occupational past, it was able to preserve a rich heritage, centuries-old culture and picturesque nature. Albania is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe. And we will devote our today's material to this beautiful country, we will find out where it is located, the most striking sights of Albania, and what you need to see if you have a holiday in this republic.
Where is
Located in the west of the Balkan Peninsula, Albania occupies its coastal territory, washed by the Adriatic Sea. Its neighbors are Greece, Macedonia, Serbia, Montenegro and Italy, separated from Albania by the Strait of Otranto. Albanian Republic (so it sounds official name country) covers an area of 28,000 km2, on which about 3.4 million people live. The capital of Albania - Tirana is the largest city in the entire republic.
Brief description of the country
For a long time, Albania was under the yoke of the Ottoman Empire, and only shortly before its fall was it able to achieve its independence in 1912. But, unfortunately, her occupation did not end there. From 1939 to 1944, Albania was subject to the Italian invaders. Then, for almost half a century from 1944 to 1992, the republic was ruled by the Communist Albanian Party, which completely isolated the state from external influence.
Albania is practically a single-ethnic state, on the territory of which live mainly Albanians. 80% of them preach Islam, being Sunnis, the rest of the population adheres to the Orthodox and Catholic churches.
Albania is especially attractive for its natural beauties. There is everything here: a picturesque plain, and majestic mountains, and the purest lakes, and large rivers. Lakes Ohrid, Shkoder and Prespa, the rivers Drin and Mati, as well as Mount Korabi (2764) are part of the uniqueness of Albania. The Mediterranean climate pleases with mild winters and hot, but not sultry summers.
The whole territory of Albania is rich in ancient Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman cultural monuments and sights. Most of them are located in the largest cities of the republic: Tirana, Shkoder, Durres, Elbasan, Korca and Vlora.
Sights of Albania
In every locality Albania can meet interesting sights. The rich history has rewarded this region with a huge number of cultural and historical monuments. Consider some of the attractions and what you can see in Aobania.
Berat Castle
It can rightly be considered a city-museum. This citadel dates back to the 13th century, representing an example of ancient architecture and history. Berat is located 123 km from the capital of Albania and is one of the most popular places among tourists. The castle rises above the city, revealing a stunning panorama of the surrounding area. Inside the citadel there are buildings of ancient temples and expositions of historical artifacts.
Skadar Lake
It is the largest lake on the Balkan Peninsula. It is simultaneously located on the territory of Albania and Montenegro. A very picturesque place that attracts tourists with its flora and fauna, virgin places protected by the state, and the purest water. Water transport is well developed here, which makes it possible to enjoy boat trips. The reservoir gained particular fame thanks to its churches and tombs built on the islands of the lake.
Fortress Rozafa
The next attraction of Albania - Rozafa Fortress - is located in the vicinity of the city of Shkodra. This is a very beautiful place, which is a picturesque hill surrounded by two rivers - Drin and Bryan. The fortress dates back to the 3rd century BC. From the moment of its construction, it was able to survive the occupation by the Romans, and the capture by the Ottomans, and the confrontation with the Montenegrins.
Rozafa is especially popular with women and is considered a sacred place for those who dream of motherhood. Despite the fact that the fortress has been partially preserved, it is known far beyond the borders of Albania. Tourists are attracted here by centuries of history and a museum opened in one of the surviving buildings.
Archaeological Museum-Reserve of Butrint
Located in the southern part of Albania near the city of Saranada. Almost bordering on Greece, this reserve has gained particular fame thanks to the excavations and the medieval Venetian fortress. Here were found the remains of public and residential buildings and structures, the walls of the acropolis, baths, decorated with mosaics and the sanctuary of Asclepius. Butrint is also popular among tourists due to its proximity to the beaches, being 2 kilometers from the coast.
Resort Ksamil
The most famous in Albania. Its peculiarity lies not only in the purest water, but also in amazing beaches. Seemingly incredibly white sand at first glance, it is actually stones crushed to a tiny size. This resort attracts tourists not only with its blue water, but also uninhabited islands which are easily accessible by swimming.
Ruins of the ancient city of Apollonia
They are located 100 km south of the city of Durres. In 855 BC, this city was founded by the Greeks as one of the most important Mediterranean city-states. Monuments such as the Monastery of St. Mary dating back to the 12th century AD, the Bouleuterion (administrative building of ancient times) dating back to the 3rd century AD, the Odeon (building for musical performances) built around the 2nd century AD, the ancient Amphitheater have survived to this day. and others. Not far from Apollonia is the majestic monastery of Ardenika.
Customs and traditions
Those who visit Albania for the first time, as a rule, are amazed at the differences in the same rites and traditions in different regions of the country. National costumes, wedding rituals and other customs can be very different in two nearby villages or cities. Perhaps that is why Albania is never boring and every new place brings an unforgettable experience. IN Everyday life we can distinguish the following customs that are characteristic of the Albanians.
When addressing local residents, Albanians use the polite form "zoti" (master) for men and "zonya" (lady) for women. In some provincial regions, echoes of communism can still be found in addressing each other in the form of a greeting "shok" - comrade.
A special theme for Albanians is the reception of guests and visiting guests. If an Albanian has invited guests, then he must host the reception himself. highest level and spend well to maintain your status. Guests, in turn, should also show respect to the hosts and bring gifts with them. The art of having a conversation over a cup of coffee is the main sign that you are a well-mannered and worthy person.
Public life in Albania is mainly manifested in a form called "jiro". At its core, this is an evening walk along a square or boulevard in a city or village. During the Giro, locals exchange news and gossip. Here great importance It has appearance. As a rule, the richest outfits are worn for such a walk to show their wealth and status.
After such a long isolation, Albania is only now beginning to reveal its uniqueness and beauty to all visitors and tourists. Stunning nature, architectural sights, clean beaches, hospitable locals and inexpensive living make this republic a potential leader among other European countries.
