27+ Interesting Facts About Albania I’ve Learned From Living Here

2. Teddy bears protect the buildings

You may notice when walking around residential or commercial areas that on the fence or entrance of the houses there are teddy bears or dolls.

This is to ward off any bad spirits, and no it’s not a set of a horror movie although it can kind of look like it!

You’ll find the fanciest hotels and residences with an old, gnarly-looking doll, so don’t be surprised to spot one outside some of the luxury hotels in Albania.

There are many other fascinating facts about Albania and Albanian beliefs that many of them live by too which we will go through in this list.

3. Religion was Banned in Albania for 50+ years

Sometimes people ask me, “What are some facts about Albania that I might not expect?”, and I tell them this little gem.

One of the most interesting facts about Albania is that during the communist era (1941 to 1992) religion was outright banned making Albania the first atheist country in the world.

Can you believe Albania was cut off from the rest of the world for over 50 years? I remember my Dad who travelled a lot, telling me stories of him visiting former Yugoslavia and he wanted to visit Albania but was never allowed. Thankfully, these days there are plenty of reasons to visit Albania.

Many religious buildings like mosques and churches were burned down during the Enver Hoxha rule.

Nowadays, Albania is known as one of the most tolerant when it comes to religion. You’ll find Muslims, Christians, atheists and Catholics all living peacefully together.

4. More Albanians Live Outside of Albania than Inside

This was one of the most shocking Albania facts to me because it means that Albania’s population in Albania is unfortunately slowly deteriorating due to Albanian diaspora.

The population of Albania is 2.8 million but because it’s hard to find work and conditions are poor here, there are more Albanians living outside of Albania than inside of Albania.

In fact, around 10 million Albanians live abroad. After the fall of communism and the collapse of the economy, it saw the largest emigration movement in Europe since World War II.

Many Albanians settled in Greece and Italy along with Switzerland, Germany and Turkey.

To bring it back to the modern day, for many here, the dream is to live outside of Albania and find work with better pay conditions and a chance to further their career or study.

Due to poor economic conditions, many have no choose but to leave, work elsewhere and send money back to their parents and grandparents.

5. There were Over 750,000 Bunkers Scattered around the Country

What could be one of the most creepy facts about Albania – but is instead among the coolest facts about Albanian history – is Enver Hoxha’s weird obsession with bunkers.

During the communist era, Enver Hoxha demanded that over 750,000 bunkers be built for an upcoming war. But in fact, that was all a lie and the concrete bunkers were built for no real reason.

You will find over 160,000 of them scattered throughout Albania still today. Some have been turned into farming sheds, artists’ studios and even hotels (for a comfier night, see my best hotels in Albania).

The only time they were partially used was during the civil war, which was in 1997. If you want to impress a history buff friend, this should be one of your go-to Albanian facts.

Most of them you’ll find totally abandoned and some you can enter inside although watch for snakes and spiders (sturdy shoes are on my Albania packing list for a reason).

6. The Car of Choice is Mercedes

One of the interesting things about Albania is that just about everyone here drives a Mercedes.

Mercedes bikes, Mercedes cars, Mercedes buses, Mercedes tractors – EVERYWHERE!

The reason?

After the mass emigration of Albanians leaving everyone started bringing back Mercedes Benz cars. They are reliable cars and perfect for the poor roads that are here in Albania.

Now having a Mercedes is a must-have for many. Most of them come from Germany and are perfectly legal.

The Albanians have a strong entrepreneurial sense as every time they would go back home to Albania after working in another country, they would bring a Mercedes to sell. This can happen every summer!

This is how the whole country is now full of old Mercedes Benz cars! Definitely one of the most left-field Albania history facts!

7. There’s No McDonald’s in Albania

Don’t expect to find a Big Mac on your travels to Albania! That’s right, there is no McDonald’s in sight.

McDonald’s hasn’t even bothered trying to come to Albania as there would be a huge cultural pushback on the idea.

There aren’t any weird laws in Albania stopping McDonald’s from giving it a go, it’s just that Albanians are more interested in coffee shops than a quick burger.

Actually, that’s an understatement. The idea of having a fast-food chain like McDonald’s coming into their country is horrifying to most Albanians.

However these days the likes of BurgerKing and KFC are in the country, but the quality is usually bad and they are hard to come by.

According to Albania, culture does not include mass-produced McProducts.

BUT here’s a twist… There is a suspiciously looking similar burger joint called ‘Kolonat’ in Tirana.

8. Xhiro – a nightly walk

One of Albania’s traditions is called Xhiro. Early in the evening Albanians will leave their homes and go for a walk down the main road of wherever they live.

This is a huge part of the culture in Albania and a good chance to catch up with everyone and is named the official evening walk.

Sometimes the farmers will come and sell their produce or people will start little BBQs on the side of the street, a tasty intro to traditional Albanian food.

This is one of my favourite facts about Albanian culture because it’s so unique to them, and joining in is one of the most unique things to do in Albania.

9. Code of Besa

Safety in Albania is a question I get asked again and again but there is nothing to worry about here.

And if anyone is ever worried about you visiting, one of the most important Albania facts to remember is the code of Besa.

The code of Besa is a very old cultural practice in Albania, which roughly translates to ‘word of honour’ or ‘to keep the promise’.

To them, this means that Albanians have a code of honour to look after those who need help. It’s a huge part of Albanian culture and traditions that you will still find in many places today.

Although some Albanians might say that it’s not something they practice anymore, I have noticed it initially within their culture and how they treat people.

For me, this is one of the coolest facts about Albanians. Is Albania safe? With Besa, yes it is!

10. Albania has the most coffee shops per capita in the world

What are Albanians known for? They LOVE coffee.

Like most of the Balkans, Albanians are huge coffee lovers. You will notice the art of chilling in a café and catching up with friends over an espresso is prominent.

Most say it’s because ‘they have nothing better to do’, their words, not mine.

There are an insane amount of coffee shops in Albania. I even started drinking espressos after I moved here just to fit in and experience true Albanian culture. Now I’m addicted so thank you Albania for that! Coffee culture is one of the reasons why I love Albania.

This is one of the Albanian facts that you will notice straight away when arriving in the country. The slow pace of life is #1 here.

11. 70% of the Country is Mountainous Terrain

Here’s an interesting fact about Albania: even though a lot of people come to the country to visit the Albanian Riviera, most of the country is actually a mountainous landscape, with plenty of the best places to visit in Albania inland.

There is a global perception that Albania is full of beaches – this is most people’s answer to the question, “What is Albania most known for?”.

So one of the most surprising facts about Albania for many visitors is that 70% of the country is mountains, which makes for some great Albania campsites.

In fact, the average elevation here is 708 metres (2,323 ft) above sea level. In the north in places like Theth, Valbona and Shkoder, you’ll find the most amazing hikes and trekking routes.

12. Their Language is Unlike Any Other

In the world of languages, this is the answer to the questions “What makes Albania unique?” and “What is Albania famous for?”.

Albanian or ‘Shqip’ has no close languages at all. If you look at the etymology behind the language it is an Indo-European language.

There are two dialects, one being Tosk (the southern dialect) and the other Geg (the northern dialect).

But is Albanian hard to learn? Unfortunately, yes it is, for most people. One of the less fun facts about the Albanian language is that it is one of the most difficult in the world.

It’s a hard language to learn for almost everyone because it has no ‘cousin’ languages. The words are long and the sounds are difficult for most.

13. They have Siestas!

This is one of my favourite facts of Albania and one I was happy to adopt! During the hottest part of the day 2pm-6pm, most shops will close to have a sort of siesta (especially in summer, as you’ll see in my Albania weather guide)!

During this time Albanians will relax, nap and take some time out to drink coffee or do nothing whatsoever.

Having siestas is one of the easiest traditions in Albania to get behind!

14. If you spill a drink, it can mean bad luck

If a liquid like a drink is spilled then you must pour water over that spill. This is one of the Albanian traditions to ward off bad luck.

My husband tells me that once he spilt red wine on his laptop and he then HAD to pour water over the top. If that doesn’t tell you how strong this particular belief is then I don’t know what will!

15. Albanians will drink a 2ns raki in a different glass

If you order a second raki from a café you may notice they will bring the raki in a new glass but pour the raki into the glass you’re already using.

Apparently, according to Albanian culture and traditions, if you are given a new glass then it means you get a new partner.

16. generational blood feuds are still present

One of the harshest traditions in Albania, which started in the 15 century and is mostly prominent in the Northern albania is called a blood feud. These feuds happen between families and can last generations until there are no remaining male family members left.

Unfortunately to this day, there is still families trapped in blood feuds. If someone were to take the life of someone else’s family, the victim’s family had the right to hunt and kill any male members of the murderer’s family.

When they did that, the other family now had the right to do the same, and then a never-ending cycle of violence and murders continued throughout generations.

Data from 2018 shows that 704 families are engaged in blood feuds, and 113 families of those 704 have moved abroad but that doesn’t necessarily make them safer as murders have happened all around the world.

17. During the Ottoman era, many Albanians converted to Islam to avoid higher taxes

One of the most significant impacts of the Ottoman Empire on Albania was the widespread conversion to Islam, primarily motivated by economic factors.

During the Ottoman rule, which began in the late 15th century by Ottoman Turks, Albanians faced a variety of pressures, including the imposition of higher taxes on non-Muslims. To avoid these financial burdens, many Albanians converted to Islam.

This conversion allowed them to enjoy lower taxes, more social mobility, and better political opportunities under Ottoman rule.

Before the Ottoman occupation, Albania was predominantly Christian, with Orthodox communities in the south and Roman Catholic populations in the north. However, the economic advantages offered to Muslims created a steady increase in conversions throughout the centuries.

Approximately 60% of Albanians now identify as Muslim, a direct result of the conversions during the Ottoman era. However, you’ll find that most still drink, eat pork and don’t pray at the mosque.

18. Mother Teresa was Albanian

Did you know that Mother Teresa, one of the most iconic humanitarians of all time, was actually Albanian?!

Born in 1910 in what is now North Macedonia, her real name was Anjezë Gonxhe Bojaxhiu, but her Albanian roots were something she held close throughout her life.

While she’s famous for her incredible work in the streets of Calcutta, Mother Teresa’s Albanian heritage was a big part of her identity. Her parents were Albanian, and her upbringing in a devout Catholic family shaped her deep sense of compassion and duty to help others.

Albanians are immensely proud of their “daughter of the nation,” and you’ll find her name everywhere in Albania, from streets and squares to statues. The country’s capital of Tirana even has a Mother Teresa Square in her honour!

Though she’s best known for her work with the poor in India, it’s inspiring to remember that this global icon started life in a small Albanian family – showing once again that Albania has a habit of producing strong, world-changing individuals!

19. The Albanian flag is a symbol of strength

The Albanian flag is instantly recognisable with its bold red background and the striking black, double-headed eagle at its centre. This powerful symbol dates back to 1443, when Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg, Albania’s national hero, used it during his resistance against the Ottoman Empire.

Skanderbeg’s flag represented Albania’s fight for freedom, and the double-headed eagle became a symbol of the country’s strength, independence, and unity.

The red background of the national flag of Albania signifies the bravery and blood of those who fought for Albania’s freedom, while the black eagle symbolises sovereignty. Interestingly, the eagle is such an important figure in Albanian culture that Albanians often refer to themselves as “Shqiptarë,” which translates to “sons of the eagle.”

The Albanian flag remains a powerful emblem of national pride, with flags flying high during national holidays and celebrations but also just on the daily. Also in the summer, you’ll find endless locals with big double-headed eagle tattoos and necklaces! Eagle jewellery also makes one of the best Albanian souvenirs.

20. Cars were only introduced to the public in the early 90’s

Here’s a wild Albania fact and one that will explain the driving (sorry Albanians 🤣), cars were only introduced to the Albanian public in the early 90s (keep this in mind if you hire a car in Albania).

Before that, the country was completely cut off during the communist rule & regime, and only government officials could own a car.

Private car ownership for everyday people was banned by the communist state! Yep, no traffic jams or honking horns—just bikes, buses, and walking everywhere.

After the fall of communism in 1991, Albanians could finally buy cars.

21. dua lipa, rita ora and bebe rexha are all albanian

There must be something in the water because some of the biggest names in pop music, Dua Lipa, Rita Ora, and Bebe Rexha, all have Albanian roots! These global superstars proudly represent their heritage on the world stage.

Dua Lipa, born to Kosovar-Albanian parents, has even been recognised for her contributions to Albania and Kosovo. Rita Ora was also born in Kosovo, while Bebe Rexha’s family hails from Albania.

It’s incredible to see these talented women not only dominating the charts but also embracing their Albanian identity. Albanians are super proud to claim them as their own!

Albania might be a small country, but it makes big impact around the world.

22. There are no addresses in Albania

If you ever find yourself lost in Albania (even with my 1 week in Albania itinerary in hand), don’t expect locals to give you an exact address. Instead, you’ll get a “go left at the blue building, right at the pink tree and you’ve arrived when you see a green Mercedes with an eagle painting on the bonnet”.

Even in cities like Tirana, addresses are a recent addition, and many Albanians still rely on word-of-mouth directions.

It’s a quirky part of the country’s charm but can be frustrating for visitors trying to navigate, which is one reason I put together my Albania bus timetables.

My advice? Embrace it as part of the adventure (more like this in my Albania travel tips)!

The only time it’s REALLY annoying is when you’re trying to explain to international government offices that I don’t have any paperwork with my address because it doesn’t exist. 🙃

23. Skanderbeg is albania’s national hero

Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg is Albania’s beloved national hero, and you’ll see his name and image everywhere you go.

In the 15th century, Skanderbeg led a fierce rebellion against the Ottoman Empire, keeping Albania free from their rule for over 25 years from hilltop strongholds that rival the incredible castles in Europe further north.

Albanians are incredibly proud of his legacy as a symbol of strength and independence.

His statue stands tall in Tirana’s Skanderbeg Square, reminding everyone of the country’s resilience. But you’ll also see statues everywhere of him all around the country, including in Krujë, home to one of the castles in Albania I think is worth visiting!

If you ask any Albanian, they’ll tell you Skanderbeg’s legacy is alive and well in their hearts today.

24. Albania was the birthplace of the Illyrians

Before it was known as Albania, this land was home to the ancient Illyrians, a group of tribes that dominated the western Balkans.

The Illyrians were skilled warriors and seafarers, and their influence stretched across the Adriatic.

Albanians today are considered the direct descendants of these ancient people, with deep pride in their Illyrian heritage.

Although much of the Illyrian culture was absorbed by the Romans, you can still find traces of their civilisation in Albania’s archaeological sites (some of the Albania tours I’d recommend visit them), making this one of the most interesting layers of the country’s history that is often buried or overlooked by outside of Albania.

25. Albanians Helped Rescue Jews During WWII

While much of Europe was succumbing to the horrors of World War II, Albania stood out as a beacon of hope.

The country became a safe haven for Jews, with Albanian families hiding and protecting Jewish refugees from Nazi persecution.

Thanks to the Code of Besa, which obliges Albanians to protect guests at all costs, Albania was one of the few countries in Europe where the Jewish population actually grew during the war.

This act of incredible bravery and honour is a proud chapter in Albania’s history, one that often goes unnoticed.

This is part of the reasons by Albanian people are some of the friendliest in the world, and you’ll feel it even on a budget trip staying in the best hostels in Albania.

26. Albanian polyphonic folk music is protected by unesco

One of the most unique parts of Albanian culture is its traditional polyphonic folk music, and it’s so special that it’s protected by UNESCO, like the Albania UNESCO sites I think are worth visiting!

This ancient form of music, especially popular in southern Albania, involves multiple voices singing in harmony but with different melodies.

It’s hauntingly beautiful and unlike anything you’ve heard before.

Passed down through generations, polyphonic singing is a core part of Albanian identity and tradition.

If you get the chance, make sure to catch a live performance—it’s a real cultural treasure you won’t want to miss (for something more modern, see my summer music festivals in Albania picks).

27. The prime minister of Albania, Edi Rama, brought colour to the capital of Albania

Tirana wasn’t always the bright, colourful city you see today.

In the early 2000s, Edi Rama, then the mayor of Tirana and now Albania’s prime minister, launched a project to bring colour to the city.

He transformed its dull, grey communist-era buildings by painting them in vibrant hues and covering them with murals.

This artistic makeover gave Tirana a much-needed facelift and sparked a wave of urban regeneration. Today, Tirana is one of the most visually striking capitals in Europe and one of the cities in Albania I think is worth visiting, and it’s all thanks to Rama’s bold vision.

28. King Zog was Albania’s first and only king

Here’s a unique piece of Albanian history: King Zog I was Albania’s first and only king!

Born Ahmed Zogu, he declared himself king in 1928 after serving as the country’s prime minister and president. By the way, he was the youngest prime mister at only 27 years old!

What makes King Zog truly fascinating is his resilience—he survived over 55 assassination attempts during his reign!

His monarchy ended after only 11 years when Mussolini’s Italy invaded Albania in 1939, forcing him into exile. However, his legacy remains an important part of Albania’s history.

Isn’t Albania interesting? I hope you’ve enjoyed learning these fun facts about Albania as much as I did! Let me know which Albania facts you thought were the most fascinating below!