Albania IS FAMOUS FOR IMPRESSIVE CASTLES, ANCIENT ROMAN RUINS, SANDY BEACHES AND TASTY ALBANIAN FOOD
Albania is a southeast European country in the Balkans. Whilst it is surrounded by Montenegro, Kosovo, North Macedonia, and Greece from which Albanian culture takes inspiration, it also has sea borders. On its west lies the Adriatic Sea, and further south is located the Ionian Sea. Hence, it is known for its rugged mountains and dreamy beaches.
What Is Albania Famous For?
Albania is famous for its history of being under rule by the Roman Empire, Ottoman Empire, and China. Religion, famous landmarks, and age-old traditions are directly affected by this, creating a vastly diverse culture. In addition, Albania is known for its castles and archaeological sites, built as early as the 4th century.
History, Culture, And Traditions Albania Is Known For
Roman Empire
Much of Albanian culture is derived from the Roman Empire which was run beginning in 167 BC. Albania became a part of the Roman provinces of Moesia, Dalmatia, and Macedonia until the 7th century AD.
The main way in which the Roman Empire influenced Albania is through religion. There are many famous Catholic Churches such as Saint Paul’s in Tirana and Saint Lucia in Durres. These demonstrate typical cathedrals of the Roman Empire.
Furthermore, much of the architecture such as the Amphitheater of Durres, Berat Castle, and Butrint Archaeological part is Roman.
Skanderbeg
Gjergj Kastrioti, known as Skanderbeg, is a famous military commander. He is the national hero that Albania is famous for, regarded as the founding father.
Skanderbeg was the leader of the 25-year conflict against the Ottoman Empire. His relatively small army of 10,000 people successfully fought and captured neighboring territories, despite being outnumbered. Eventually, Albania did become a part of the Ottoman Empire.
However, it put up a fight lasting a decade. As a result, many landmarks are dedicated to the hero such as Skanderbeg Square and the Skanderbeg Monument inside it.
Dita e Veres
Dita e Veres is a spring festival held every year on March 14th. The pagan celebration is honored across Albania, where everyone partakes.
The most important part of Dita e Veres is exchanging red and white bracelets among friends and family members. They are worn until a swallow is spotted and are subsequently taken off to tie onto a tree branch. It is believed that this symbolizes good luck and prosperity in the upcoming season.
Traditionally, locals declare that the festival honors Zana, the goddess of nature. Because of this, fires are lit to elicit strength, just like the sun.
Two Dialects
In Albanian culture, there are two dialects: Tosk and Gheg. The former predominates whilst the latter is more popular in northern Albania and Kosovo. The Shkumbin River is considered the diving line between the two groups.
Whilst Tosk and Gheg speakers can understand each other, there are notable differences. For example, the Tosk dialect is written using the Greek Alphabet whilst Gheg uses Latin. Similarly, the Tosk dialect does not use verb infinitives and forms the future tense in varying ways.
Hospitality
Around the world, when wondering what is Albania famous for, people will likely say hospitality. More Albanians live outside of the country than in it, which helps to further teach citizens of other countries about their warmth and kindness.
A popular concept in Albanian culture is ‘besa’, which roughly translates to ‘keeping a promise’. It is taught from a young age to keep your word and be an honest person with integrity.
Originally, this saying it thought to stem from the Muslim Albanians who rescued Jews during the Holocaust. As a result, the ‘besa’ concept was passed on from one culture to another.
Cities And Travel Destinations Albania Is Known For
Tirana
Tirana is known for having the perfect balance between history and urbanization. There are many old landmarks such as Skanderbeg Square and the Natural History Museum. On the other hand, structures like the Opera House bring a modern and fresh perspective to the city.
A fun fact about Albania is that there are no Mcdonald’s in Tirana! This is because most fast-food places prefer to serve Albanian food, and there are also many street foods available in the markets.
Durres
If you are a history fanatic, Durres is the best city to visit.
One of the most compelling attractions located here is the Amphitheater of Durres. Albania is famous for being under Roman rule between 167 BC and the 7th century, which explains why so many structures are Roman.
Another interesting landmark is the Venetian Tower. This is a circular castle built on the Adriatic Sea coast as a sea defense.
Kruje
Kruje is best known for Mount Kruje, a 680-meter mountain. Here you can participate in hikes and biking trails. The city is also encompassed by the Ishëm River which runs to Tirana.
The Castle of Kruje is worth visiting as it once belonged to Skanderbeg, the hero of Albania. It was built in the 6th century as protection against the Ottoman Empire and still stands to this day.
An addition made to the castle is the Ethnographic Museum inside the complex, which has many staple household items that were used in olden times. This gives an insight into how Albanian people used to live.
Gjirokastra
Gjirokastra is a beautiful coastal old town. It has many of the beautiful beaches Albania is famous for such as Lukova Beach, located on the Albanian Riviera. It is an organized sandy beach with calm, clear waters that make for a relaxing beach vacation.
The cobblestone streets and limestone structures add to the charming character of Gjirokastra. Many of the buildings are made from stone and are several centuries old. It is worth visiting Gjirokastra Castle even if it’s just for catching the impressive view of the entire city.
Berat
Berat, also known as The City of a Thousand Window, is located in the heart of Albania. You can easily guess the rationale behind its nickname from any classic photo of the city.
Berat is also famous for its religious landmarks. The city houses several churches from the Byzantine Empire, such as the Holy Trinity Church. This medieval structure is perched on a hill and has characteristic architecture such as golden mosaics and domes, and stunning Orthodox crosses.
Furthermore, Albania is known for having a large Muslim community. The Red Mosque is a 15th-century structure inside Berat Castle, made from distinct red brick.
Landmarks And Architecture Albania Is Known For
Krujë Castle
Albania is famous for its castles. One of the most well-known worldwide is Krujë Castle, built in the 5th century as a sea defense perched on top of the city.
In addition to this, it was the city’s strongest protector against invading armies for centuries. This includes The Albanian Revolt and the Skanderbeg Rebellion, which were all unsuccessful as the castle remained put. It holds so much significance to Albanian culture, that it is the landmark illustrated on the 5000 lekë banknote.
Currently, the castle is home to the Skanderbeg Museum.
Skanderbeg Square
Skanderbeg Square is one of the main plazas in the capital city of Tirana.
The Skanderbeg Monument is the most significant attraction in the plaza, which commemorates Gjergj Kastrioti, nicknamed Skanderbeg. The military commander was in charge of leading the rebellion against the Ottoman Turks to avoid capture. An impressive monument of Skanderbeg on his horse sits in the center.
Other attractions worth exploring around the square include the Et’hem Bey Mosque and the National History Museum. These cultural and historical explorations are some of the best things to do in Tirana.
Amphitheater of Durres
The Amphitheater of Durres is an important Roman landmark, found in the oldest city of Albania. Firstly, it was constructed in 2AD, however, has been rebuilt several times due to earthquakes. Despite this, it remains well preserved considering its age.
At its peak, the amphitheater could hold up to 20,000 spectators, hence it was the largest in the Balkans. The audience would watch plays, gladiator fights, and more. Nowadays, it has been adjusted into a museum where you can discover Albanian culture.
Butrint National Park
In Vlorë County you can find Butrint National Park, one of the most famous natural landmarks that Albania is famous for. There are several features like salt marshes, hills, and pebble coves. It is built on Butrint Lake, a stunning turquoise lagoon. Kids especially enjoy the park, as there are dolphins, sea turtles, and seals.
Within the national park is also an archaeological site. Structures are dated from the Iron Age to the Middle Ages, ranging from ruins to well-preserved artifacts from castles and cathedrals.
The Blue Eye
The Blue Eye is a deep water spring in the Muzinë village, close to Saranda. It is a brilliant destination to explore during the summers, especially adored by the younger generation. The lake is also surrounded by sycamore trees creating a fairytale-like forest.
You can swim in the Blue Eye, however, the water has been noted to be ice cold. Nevertheless, this is ideal in the hotter months. On the other hand, the clear blue water can also be observed from the balcony above. It is so transparent that you can see below the waters.
Food Albania Is Known For (Albanian Food)
Tavë Kosi
The national food that Albania is famous for is called Tavë Kosi. Around the world, it is known as Elbasan tava, named after the city of Elsaban from where the recipe was curated in the 15th century.
Tavë Kosi is a popular homemade meal that can be eaten for dinner or served at large gatherings. It consists of lamb and rice, resembling a casserole. The star ingredient is the spiced yogurt that it is mixed with, which is combined with eggs, milk, and flour. As a result, the rice becomes creamy and flavorful.
Fërgesë
Fërgesë is a popular Albanian food due to its simplicity. It is a baked vegetarian dish that is quick to make, ideal in busy households.
The recipe for Fërgesë is made in one pan. Tomatoes, red bell peppers, and eggs are added to the pan and mixed thoroughly. Once it is soft, dairy products such as feta cheese and yogurt are added to create a velvety texture.
Traditionally, fërgesë would be made in a clay pot and served on the streets of Tirana where it originates from. Give it a try if you are craving some Albanian soups and stews.
Burek
Burek is a cheesy, flaky pastry that is baked fresh everywhere in Albania and eaten as a snack.
Thin layers of filo pastry are oiled and a filling is added.
The simplest form of burek is made with feta cheese and ricotta stuffing, however many variants exist. Another popular filling is creamy spinach. Subsequent sheets of pastry and filling are layered until reaching the top and brushing it with egg for a golden crust.
Burek comes in all shapes and sizes. It can be shaped into a swirl, triangle, or roll; but one thing remains constant – the delicious taste.
Kabuni
Kabuni is a traditional sweet dessert in Albania. This baked rice pudding is the perfect afternoon pick-me-up and is usually enjoyed with a cup of coffee.
Rice is boiled with a mixture of caramelized sugar, cinnamon, and raisins. It is then transferred to a dish and baked in the oven, then topped with roasted almonds once it is ready.
Although usually a dessert, Kabuni is a versatile dish and can be eaten as a side to other Albanian food.
Famous People From Albania
Bebe Rexha
Bebe Rexha is a singer-songwriter and prominent celebrity figure. Her top achievements include a Grammy for Best Rap/Sung Performance in 2015, and her own All Your Fault tour.
As well as being a pop singer, she is a talented host. Using her singing abilities, she landed a position as a head coach on The Voice and has previously anchored the MTV Music Awards.
Furthermore, Rexha is admired for her transparency on mental health issues and raises awareness of endocrine disorders in women.
Jim Belushi
Jim Belushi is an Albanian-American actor. He is best known for his role as Michael Dooley in the movie K-9, where he plays a doting detective who tracks down criminals with his pet dog. His most recent endeavors include the television series Growing Belushi.
Belushi’s brother, John Belushi, was a famous comedian who famously was a leading cast member on Saturday Night Live.
Eliza Dushku
Eliza Dushku is an Albanian actress who has starred in movies alongside other eminent celebrities such as Leonardo DiCaprio and Jamie Lee Curtis. She is best known for starring in horror series, where she excels. Dushku is best known for her role as Faith in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, in addition to its spin-off Angel.
Eliza is proud of her heritage and has Albanian citizenship as she regularly visits. As well as this, she has the Albanian Eagle tattoo, which represents strength in times of adversity.
Ferid Murad
Ferid Muran is a renowned physician and pharmacologist.
Murad is best known for his joint Nobel Prize in physiology, which he shares with two scientists. This was awarded for their discovery of nitric oxide’s role in the cardiovascular system of the human body. By establishing that it is a signaling molecule, they could maintain its support in mediating pathways for inflammation and blood flow.
He is also a published author of Herbal Medicine: Back to the Future, for which he is still writing new volumes.
Discovering More Things Albania Is Known For
Albania is famous for its remarkable historical structures. The oldest castle in the country, Kruje Castle, is an important reminder of the bravery of Skanderbeg whilst protecting his nation against the Ottoman Empire.
In addition, an integral part of Albanian culture is food. Traditional cuisine has been passed down from the older generations and is used as a tool to show love, respect, and celebration.
These are just some of the famous things in Albania, and you can be sure there are plenty more to discover in this beautiful Balkan country. You will certainly uncover more of what Albania is known for when you visit!
