# The Capital of Albania: Discover the Secrets of Tirana > Friendly locals, delicious food, and scenic mountains nearby. Find out what makes Tirana so surprising and why Albania's capital deserves a spot on your route. - URL: https://langandtrip.com.ua/en/article/stolytsya-albaniyi-vidkryyte-dlya-sebe-sekrety-tyrany/ - Language: en - Published: 2022-01-03 - Categories: Culture, Restaurants, Mountains, Tours, Albania, Lakes, Food & Drinks --- Albania is one of the most fascinating countries in Europe. Friendly people, excellent food, and picturesque mountains. ![](/storage/image/prev/statia-1-3.jpg) ## What is the capital of Albania? Tirana is the capital and largest city of Albania, even though the country itself is small: the total population stands at 2.8 million people (2020 figures). Tirana is the hub of the economy, culture, and government activity. It sits between three rivers: the Lana, the Tirana, and the Terkuza. Tirana, the capital of Albania, lies roughly 1,656 km from Warsaw, 700 km from Athens in Greece, 290 km from Skopje, the capital of Macedonia, and 258 km from Pristina, the capital of Kosovo. ## Interesting facts about Tirana, the capital of Albania Albanians are known for calling themselves the sons of eagles. This is also tied to the Albanian language, which is called Shqipëria. Tirana, as the capital of Albania, was founded in 1614 and has always been a city of many ethnic groups. According to 2016 data, the country's population was made up of Albanians, Macedonians, Gorani, Greeks, Italians, Aromanians, Roma, and other peoples. What is more, Tirana is home to more women than men. Tirana has a humid subtropical climate. In summer, Tirana ranks 8th among the sunniest cities in Europe. The Albanian language has just 2 dialects: Gheg, spoken by people in the north, and Tosk, popular among Albanians living in the south. The dominant religions in Tirana and across Albania are Islam and Christianity. Despite appearances, these two faiths coexist in complete harmony. In the words of the national poet Pashko Vasa, the greatest "religion of Albanians is Albanianism." Tirana is an economic center. The largest share of companies belongs to international investors, though local businesses are active too. Around 68% of Albania's entire economy comes from the services market, 26% from industry, and less than 6% from agriculture. ![](/storage/image/prev/statia-1-1024x554.jpeg) ## What is worth seeing in Tirana? When you visit Tirana, the capital of Albania, you can step back into the past. Post-Soviet buildings blend with modern architecture against a backdrop of majestic mountains. ### The historical mosaic on Skanderbeg Square in Tirana Begin your tour of Tirana with the famous mosaic on the wall above the entrance to the National History Museum. The mosaic depicts the story of Albania's development from ancient times to the mass killings under communist rule. The figures shown include Illyrian warriors, the writer Naim Frashëri, and Mother Albania. Skanderbeg Square is named after the national hero who, in the 15th century, briefly secured Albania's independence from the Ottoman Empire. At the center of the square stands a large bronze statue of Skanderbeg on horseback. ### Mount Dajţi More than 75% of Albania's territory is covered by mountains, so even within Tirana itself it is easy to find peaks for a day trip. Mount Dajţi (1,600 m) rises in the middle of the national park of the same name, not far from Tirana. In 2005, the longest cable car in the Balkans was built here, letting you travel comfortably up and down in a gondola. The view from the summit is sensational, and you can even see the Mediterranean Sea, which is especially recommended at sunset. ### The Pyramid of Tirana The Pyramid was built in 1988 as a museum dedicated to the country's socialist leader, Enver Hoxha. It was later turned into a nightclub, an events venue, and even a temporary base for NATO soldiers during the war in Kosovo. For several years now, there has been talk of transforming it into a new hub for culture and technology. ### The Et'hem Bey Mosque in Tirana Another cultural landmark, this time a spiritual one, sits right next to Skanderbeg Square: the Et'hem Bey Mosque. Construction of the mosque lasted from 1794 to 1821. This building with a rich history can be visited inside, except during prayer times. For an extra fee, you can climb the minaret. ### Lake Shkopet For those traveling around Albania by car, a trip to Lake Shkopet is highly recommended. It lies about 35 km north of Tirana. The lake was formed by a dam on the Mat River, and the winding gorge carved out by the river's erosion resembles a huge gateway made of two cliffs. ### What you should know before traveling to Tirana and Albania Albania is very affordable compared with its neighboring countries. Although Tirana is the most expensive city, you still will not spend too much compared with other places in Eastern Europe. ### Notable places in Albania When it comes to attractions, the parks are free, while museums require tickets, but the prices are low. When shopping, keep in mind that many shops accept only the Albanian lek (the local currency), though hotels also accept euros. Credit cards are not accepted everywhere, so make sure you have some cash on hand. Be careful about what you drink Foreigners and locals alike usually rely on bottled water in Albania, because drinking tap water is not recommended. Also make sure that any meat you eat is well cooked. ### A paradise for history lovers While the Albanian Riviera and its beautiful beaches are a wonderful reason to visit, the country has so much more to offer. Mountains stretch across the whole country, including the Albanian Alps, the Shar range, and the Pindus. Archaeological sites include prehistoric burial mounds, as well as ancient Greek and Roman temples and forts and medieval baths. The country is also rich in lakes and rivers, forests and ancient towns that will take your breath away. A holiday in Albania should always be planned so that there is enough time to get to know the country's many natural and historical wonders. ### The beauty of the language Many European languages descend from the Greek, Latin, or Slavic families, but not Albanian. This ancient language has its own branch on the language tree. Linguists are not sure where the word Shqip (the Albanian word for "language") comes from, and although some words resemble those in Italian, English, and other languages, this tongue is truly unique. Albanians are very proud of their language, so try to learn a few words, and they will be very grateful. Here are a few basics: përshëndetje (hello), faleminderit (thank you), mire (good), naten e mire (good night), and mirupafshim (goodbye). ### Tolerant, like Albanians One of the most wonderful things about Albania is that it is a tolerant nation when it comes to religion. Christians, Muslims, and Jews all feel safe and welcome here. In every town, just a few meters from a mosque, you will see an Orthodox church and a Catholic one. ![](/storage/image/prev/statia-1-1-1024x683.jpg) ## The flavors of Tirana are flavors from all over Albania When you head out to a restaurant, you may not be able to communicate comfortably in English. That is exactly why it is worth getting to know the most popular dishes straight from Albania. All of Albanian cuisine is built on seafood, nuts, olive oil, and... wine. You will also notice a strong influence from Turkish, Italian, and Greek cooking. So what is worth eating in Albania? Read also: Which wine pairs with which dish? Despite appearances, the choice is not an easy one. ### Fergese, a cold stew Fergese is without a doubt one of the traditional dishes in Albania. The dish consists mainly of tomato sauce, cheese, green peppers, and garlic. To enjoy this dish, it is best to wait about 2 to 3 hours until it cools down. This gives it a thicker consistency and lets the ingredients stand out better. Fergese is usually eaten simply with bread. This dish is not a typical menu option in Albanian restaurants, but you can try it in village restaurants that serve traditional food. Tarator, a cooler Tarator is an appetizer and an excellent dish that Albanians usually eat before meat courses. The starter has the consistency of a soup, so it is a common dish served in a bowl. It is made with vinegar, cucumber, garlic, walnuts, fennel, and spices. In winter, Albanians offer a wide choice of hearty stewed dishes instead. ### Byrek, like a stuffed dumpling Albanian pastries remain one of the most beloved traditional foods. People love them because you can take them along and eat them on the go for a quick bite or snack. Byrek (also known as burek, börek, boereg, piroq) is a pie with a meat filling, and possibly with cabbage, feta, spinach, tomatoes, and meat. ### Ashure, a sweet porridge Ashure can be described as a sweet porridge served cold. It is a popular Albanian dessert traditionally eaten in the first month of the Islamic calendar. However, this delicious dessert can easily be found in any confectionery in Albania throughout the year. It has a gelatinous texture that melts in the mouth, so you can taste the nuts or dried fruit it is made from. ### Tave Kosi, chicken in yogurt In Albania, chicken baked in yogurt is a favorite traditional dish, usually served for lunch. Tave Kosi is normally made with lamb, but some Albanians use chicken as well. This dish has a very unique flavor. The baked yogurt has a soft texture and a slightly sour taste, and the meat balances it out nicely.