Vlora (Vlorë) – the heart of southern Albania on two seas
Vlora, known in Albanian as Vlorë, is the third largest city in Albania and one of the most important resorts on the southern coast. It is located on the Adriatic and Ionian Seas, precisely where these two bodies of water meet – in the picturesque Vlora Bay, sheltered from the west by the Karaburun peninsula.
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.
The Collapse of Financial Pyramids in Albania – Chaos, Death, and Loss of Savings
After the death of dictator Enver Hoxha and the fall of the communist regime in 1991, Albania entered a new era - of democracy and free market. However, society, inexperienced in capitalist economics, became an easy target for fraudsters. By the mid-90s, financial pyramids began popping up like mushrooms - companies offering investments with unrealistically high interest rates, often reaching up to 100% in a short time.
Famous Albanians – Outstanding Figures from a Small Country
Albania is a Balkan state that, despite its small size and population, has given the world many famous personalities. Its area is 28,748 km², comparable to the Greater Poland Voivodeship in Poland. The population is about 2.8 million. Nevertheless, many outstanding Albanians have made their mark in history, not only in their nation's memory but also worldwide.
Kruja and the Skanderbeg Museum – the heart of Albanian history
The museum dedicated to George Kastrioti Skanderbeg (Gjergj Kastrioti Skënderbeu, 1405-1468) is located in the city of Kruja and is one of Albania's most popular attractions. It was opened in 1982 next to the old castle and was designed by Pranvera Hoxha, daughter of former dictator Enver Hoxha. Enver Hoxha did not appear at the opening as he did not fully approve of the museum's architecture.
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.
Albania – Is it really a Muslim country?
When I was planning my first trip to Albania in 2015, I encountered warnings from my family. They were concerned about my safety, convinced that Albania, as a Muslim country, could be dangerous. At that time, my knowledge about this country was minimal, so I decided to explore the topic. I began intensive reading about its history and spoke with many Albanians to better understand their culture and worldview.
