Albania

Coat of arms of Albania

File:Hymni i Flamurit instrumental.ogg

Location Albania Europe

Kamenicë Tumulus, Albania 2018 02

The City and the Prokletije from the castle

Albania, officially known as the Republic of Albania (Republika e Shqipërisë), is a country in Southeast Europe on the Adriatic Sea and Ionian Sea 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. To the west, Albania has a coast along the Adriatic Sea and to the southwest, it borders the Ionian Sea. The country's capital and largest city is Tirana.

History

The territory of Albania has been inhabited since prehistoric times, evidenced by remains from the Paleolithic era. Throughout its history, it has been under Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman rule before declaring its independence on November 28, 1912. The modern nation state of Albania emerged in 1912 following the collapse of the Ottoman Empire in Europe.

Geography

Albania is characterized by its diverse geography, which includes sandy beaches along its coastline, fertile plains, and high mountains. The country is also home to several rivers, the largest being the Drin River. Albania's climate varies from coastal Mediterranean to continental in its inland areas.

Politics

Albania is a parliamentary republic. The President serves as the head of state, while the Prime Minister is the head of government in a multi-party system. The country's legislative power is vested in both the government and the Albanian Parliament.

Economy

The Albanian economy is a mixed economy with a large private sector and a smaller public one. It is classified as an upper-middle-income economy by the World Bank. Key sectors include agriculture, manufacturing, services, and tourism. Albania has seen rapid economic growth in the 21st century, driven by significant investments in energy and infrastructure.

Culture

Albanian culture is a reflection of the country's rich history and geographical diversity. It is influenced by the ancient Illyrians, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. Albania is known for its archaeological sites, historic architecture, folk arts, and traditional music. The country's most significant cultural symbols include the eagle, which is also on the national flag, and the Iso-polyphony of its southern regions, recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Demographics

Albania has a population of approximately 2.8 million people. The majority of the population is ethnic Albanian, with minorities including Greeks, Macedonians, Montenegrins, and Roma. The official language is Albanian, and the country is predominantly secular, with the largest religious group being Muslims, followed by Christians.

Education and Science

Education in Albania is secular and mandatory until the age of 16. The country has made significant strides in increasing its literacy rate and improving educational standards. Albania also contributes to scientific research, particularly in the fields of natural and social sciences.

External Relations

Albania is a member of several international organizations, including the United Nations, NATO, the Council of Europe, and the World Trade Organization. It is also a candidate for membership in the European Union.