In
the evenings, the locals like to walk. But it’s not
just a walk. Known as xhiro, it’s an official evening
walk where every resident comes out to stretch their legs
and catch up with their neighbours. In many towns, the roads
close to cars for certain hours! Apartment blocks empty and
everyone gathers at various places, walking and talking until
nightfall.
When
an Albanian is agreeing with you, he or she will shake their
head, and when they are disagreeing with you they will nod.
Be warned and avoid confusion. Yes means no and no means yes.
You’re
likely to notice a large number of scarecrows in odd places.
Albanians believe that a scarecrow placed on a home or other
building while it’s under construction will ward off
envy from the neighbours. Sometimes you’ll see a teddy
bear serving the same purpose. The odd part is that the scarecrow
or the teddy bear will be impaled on a rod or hung by a rope
like a noose. Some also say that these talismans bring good
luck.
The
heroine of Albania is Anjezë Gonxhe Bojaxhiu. Better
known to the rest of the world as Mother Teresa. She was born
in Skopje, which is now a part of North Macedonia. She is
the only Albanian to win a Nobel prize.
In
1995 a law was passed requiring citizens to pay taxes on traffic-lights
in their home towns. The residents of Shkodra were taxed,
just like all cities, but staged a protest. Their reason?
Shkodra has no traffic lights. It’s one of the oldest
cities in Europe and the fifth largest in Albania. With a
wonderful Old Town worth visiting, history buffs will love
the restoration that’s happening. Also, the Rozafa Fortress
offers incredible views over the lake.
The
highest point in Albania is Maje e Korabit, or Golem Korab.
At over 2,700 metres, this peak sits directly on the border
with North Macedonia – making the highest point for
both countries. Golem Korab attracts many tourists, particularly
outdoor adventurers. From June to September, hikers and climbers
make their way to this great peak for the challenge and the
natural surrounding beauty.
Currently,
there are more Albanians living outside the country than living
inside it. As you travel around the Balkans, you’ll
see tons of qeleshes – the brimless felt hats that are
a part of traditional Albanian dress. The estimates range
from seven to ten million Albanians living throughout Europe,
primarily in North Macedonia, Montenegro, Kosovo, and Greece.
Only three million Albanians actually live within its borders.
Albania
has over 750,000 bunkers spread out across the land. They
are hard to miss and can be a nice car game (Be the first
to spot the bunker!). They were all built during the dictatorship
of Enver Hoxha in order to protect the country from an invasion.
An invasion which never actually happened. Most are a bit
of an eyesore and many Albanians dislike them because they
are a reminder of 50+ years of isolation. But a few have been
repurposed into cultural museums, artistic canvases, and business
ventures.
Tirana, the capital is surprisingly sheik. For a country that’s
had some stark years, the truly Albanian spirit can be seen
in modern Tirana. You might expect it to be dominated by grey
concrete (like other Post-Communist European cities), but
there’s a ton of green space, and, of course, lots of
colour. The inspiration behind the reinvention of the city
is Edi Rama. A painter and a politician, Rama was mayor of
the city for 11 years (2000-2011). Though some have criticized
him for not paying more attention to infrastructure issues,
most agree that the effects of having a lively city go a long
way towards motivating people and inspiring even more change.
Raki is the national drink, but be warned! Raki made out in
the villages is equal to about three normal drinks. If you’ve
travelled in the Balkans, you’ve probably come across
rakija or rakia. But the Albanian versus is quite unique.
It’s an old school moonshine made from grapes that is
incredibly strong. You’ll find it in most bars but be
sure to pay attention to its source. If it comes out of a
repurposed plastic bottle or plain glass jug, you’re
liking getting a home-brew likely to put hair on your chest
(as the saying goes!).
The traditional dress of Albania uses wool, cotton, and silk,
with embroidered patterns and symbols like the silver and
gold Albanian eagle. Other symbols are pagan in origin and
include moons, stars, suns, and snakes. Each region has its
own traditions and would be happy to explain the subtle differences.
If you’re looking for a good gift to take home, try
buying a pair of Opinga – the traditional shoe worn
by both men and women.
Source
to get more information
Albanian
people called their nation Arber during the middle ages.
The most popular sport in Albania is soccer.
The official currency in Albania is the Albanian Lek.
Nodding
the head in Albania is a disagreement while shaking the head
means "yes".
The national airport of Albania is named after Mother Teresa.
The full name of the the airport is Tirana International Nene
Tereza.
Shqiperia is Albania in Albanian language. The official name
for Albania is "Republika e Shqiperise" meaning
the Republic of Albania.
Albania gained its independence in 1912 but was not recognized
by a lot of countries till 1913.
The literacy rate is 93% for men and 80% for women.
The population in Albania is estimated to be 3.5 million only.
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