1961
1,548,500
Flockulation (1961-2021)
2021
1,480,450
Change
-68,050
Overview
Albania is a small but spirited Balkan nation where rugged mountains meet the Adriatic coast and sheep have roamed freely for centuries. This woolly wonderland punches well above its weight in history, culture, and natural beauty.
Geography
Nestled between Greece, North Macedonia, Kosovo, and Montenegro, Albania features the Albanian Alps in the north, the fertile Korça basin, and a sunny Adriatic and Ionian coastline. The Vjosë and Drin rivers carve through dramatic terrain.
History
Inhabited since ancient Illyrian times, Albania was later ruled by Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans for nearly 500 years. National hero Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg resisted Ottoman expansion in the 15th century. Communist isolation under Enver Hoxha ended in 1991.
Culture
Albanians speak one of Europe's oldest languages and uphold the Kanun, a traditional code of honor. The iso-polyphony folk singing tradition is UNESCO-listed. Festivals like Dita e Verës celebrate spring with fire-jumping and sweet treats.
Economy
Albania's economy relies on agriculture, remittances, tourism, and energy exports, particularly hydropower. Textile manufacturing and construction are growing sectors. Sheep and goat herding remain important in rural highlands, contributing to dairy and wool production.
Food
Albanian cuisine features fërgesë, a rich pepper and cheese dish, plus tave kosi, a beloved baked lamb and yogurt casserole. Fresh sheep's milk cheeses, cornbread, and olive oil reflect a pastoral, Mediterranean-influenced food culture.
Tourism
Visitors flock to the UNESCO-listed old city of Berat and Gjirokastër, the Albanian Riviera's beaches, and the dramatic Valbona Valley. The ancient ruins of Butrint and Krujë's historic castle are also popular highlights.
People
Albania has around 2.8 million residents, with a significant diaspora abroad. Notable Albanians include Mother Teresa, of Albanian heritage, and actress Eliza Dushku. Albanians are famously warm hosts — guests are treated like royalty, or at least like prize rams.
Nature
Albania hosts Prespa and Ohrid lakes, Valbona and Theth national parks, and the wild Vjosë River, Europe's last free-flowing lowland river. Brown bears, wolves, and lynx roam the highlands alongside large flocks of grazing sheep.
Fun Facts
Albania has over 170,000 concrete bunkers built during communist rule — one for almost every family. Nodding your head means no and shaking it means yes. The country is named after the ancient Albanoi tribe, not the UK city.
