Albania: The Sleeping Beauty

1. Official name: Republic of Albania
2. Capital: Tirana
3. Total Area: 28,748 km²
4. Approximate population: 3,190,000
5. Location: Southeastern Europe
6. Languages: Albanian, Greek
7. Religions: Sunni Muslim, Albanian Orthodox, Roman Catholic
8. Currency: Lek
9. Organizations: United Nations
10. World's 143^rd largest country/territory (area)

We now shift our focus to a little known country in southern Europe: Albania; a nascent country;just awakening from it's deep communist sleep. It has long been a forgotten country until recent due to it's communist agenda which led the country to exist in complete isolation,distancing itself even from neighboring communist countries like Russia and Yugoslavia. Even as communism failed elsewhere, this country seemed intent on staying it's course; albeit alone.That is until 1992 when communism lost it's importance there too. 

Hence what we now have is a beautiful country....not yet spoilt by mass tourism and globalization, with a culture that is a 100% homegrown. Albania offers a host of things to enjoy......from pristine crystal clear beaches to snow capped mountains, adorned with some of the best preserved greek ruins and topped off with unbeaten hospitality, it is hence no wonder it ranked No.1 on Lonely Planet's top 10 countries to visit.

Here's a glimpse of what is on offer: starting with the capital city of Tirana. It is considered to be a charming and beautiful city but has started showing signs of renovation from it's communist days, bringing in problems associated with sudden rapid industrialisation.

Et'them Bey Mosque and Tirana Clock Tower

 The Et'them Bey mosque shown is considered one of the most beautiful mosques in Albania and took a total of 28 years to build!

It was closed under communist rule until it was reopened in 1991without permission from authorities. 10,000 people attended without any interference from the police.The event was a milestone in Albanian religious rebirth.

Also seen in the picture is the Clock Tower.It was once the tallest building in Albania....in 1822.....and the clock was replaced after being destroyed in the second world war. Access to the top is now free for visitors.

Piramida

The building pictured is the Piramida and was originally built as a museum dedicated to the former dictator Enver Hoxha. It was the most expensive building erected under communist rule and is now abandoned although there are future plans to renovate it.

Mount Dajt

Mount Dajt is a mountain east of Tirana, in central Albania. The best way to take in the beauty is by travelling by cable car. On top is a national park, home to a variety of flora and fauna. Also nearby is the bolliva Lake, one of Albania's main water sources. Of course the best thing you could do is sip coffee on top and take in the breathtaking view of Tirana from there.

View from the top

Besides this there is the Ish-Blloku which is an up market area;was once the protected area where top communist officials stayed,away from public eye. Now however it is thronged by teenagers and youth alike, and contains Tirana's best restaurants and entertainment destinations. Tirana also has many museums,galleries and even a zoo in case you are interested. Also a must see is the Tirana mosaic, which is Tirana's only archaeological site and contains evidence that there once existed a village in that area.

Berat is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as it is a rare example of well preserved Ottoman architecture. Below we see why:

Berat

Mount Tomorr

Mount Tomorr is a large mountain range in southern Albania, not far from Berat. According to Albanian folklore, it is believed that Tomorr was a giant that wanted to fight another giant called Shpirag for a young woman. They eventually killed each other and on hearing this the woman cried and drowned on her own tears, thus creating the river Osum.

Bogova Waterfalls

Also definitely worth visiting is the Bogova waterfall which isn't too far from the mountains and is beautiful site to relax in.

Apollonia

Temple at Butrinti

Albania is also famous for it's Greek ruins, such as Appolonia shown in the picture. Though once Greek it was later taken over by Romans and their influence can be seen in the ancient Roman city of Butrinti.

Beach at Dhermi

And finally for those of you who wish to soak up the sun instead of exploring ancient ruins, can do so in one of the many beaches along Albania's coast. Crystal clear water as far as the eye can see; and not crowded to spoil your fun. Also a must is to sample the honey and olive oil which are usually home made and considered one of the best in the Balkans. Or perhaps reach out and grab an orange from a tree for you to relish!

Albania is a magnificent country, which abounds in natural beauty; a small country that has everything from magnificent mountains to beautiful beaches; ancient ruins to modern establishments and everything in between. Not to forget it is after all the country where the beloved Mother Teresa was from. It has a vibrant history and it's potential as a tourist hotspot knows know bounds.What iv'e shown here is but a taste of what Albania truly has to offer. So go to Albania,try some byrek and wash it down with some raki or boza and be rest assured you're gonna have a great time.