Gjakmarrja – Blood Vengeance in Albania, Its Echo Still Heard Today
Although blood vengeance - known as Gjakmarrja - is no longer practiced in modern Albania and is legally forbidden, this dramatic custom from medieval times still fascinates and terrifies. It's a part of cultural history that shows how strongly Albanians were connected to honor, family, and justice based on customary law.
King Ahmed Zogu I – the legend of Albania who survived over 50 assassination attempts
Ahmed Zogu I had an unusual name and habit – he smoked up to 150 perfumed cigarettes daily. He was almost indestructible. During his reign, he survived over 55 assassination attempts. He had many enemies. He feared someone might poison him. For this reason, only his mother and older sister prepared his food.
