Download or read book Journey to Albania Land of Besa written by Kalman Dubov and published by Kalman Dubov. This book was released on 2024-02-18 with total page 204 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Although tiny in comparison with other European countries, Albania looms large in terms of its people, culture and history. Blessed by an abundance of natural resources, together with the resourcefulness of its people, it stands strong in the face of much larger countries that have tried to control it and subjugate its people. In the face of overwhelming odds, Albania stood firm, refusing to be subdued to others despite that dominant country remaining on its soil for centuries. Descendants from the ancient Illyrians, a relatively unknown group, together with an obscure language unlike any other in Europe, its people are a mystery and a conundrum in the face of larger and more powerful countries. The Ottoman Empire, for example, dominated Albania and the Balkans for five centuries, but were unable to subjugate these people. Albanian embers for independence were nurtured and kept alive until, in the end, it achieved its national aspirations. Its core identity remained unchanged and strong in the face of such challenge. Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of Albanian is the concept of besa, a term denoting a code of honor. Once given to another, whether an Albanian or a stranger, the Albanian would rather forfeit his life than violate this code and promise. It was due to this concept and code that Jews in Albania, were protected and every manner of succor was extended to them. Albania remains the only country in Nazi-occupied Europe when at the end of that world war there was an increase in its Jewish population rather than the reverse. The Nazis considered the Jewish population in Albania to be about 200 persons. In fact, by war’s end, 2,000 people emerged, relating tales of the extraordinary courage and heroism extended to them by either Muslim or Christian Albanians. To date the State of Israel’s Yad Vashem has recognized 75 Albanians for its prestigious award of Righteous Among the Nations. Ironically, the very same code of honor that protected Jews during World War Two is now used by Albanians to perpetrate criminality across the world. The Albanian Mafia controls a vast international enterprise, overseeing every form of crime. At its basest element, the clannish hallmark of its membership is based on familial connections, with the code of besa given to its leadership and other members. Thereby, all in the clan are considered family for whom the code connects and protects, demanding total unquestioned obedience. Efforts to infiltrate these clans has proven an impossible task because of the interconnected webs of duty and control exerted on all in that organization. Betrayal of the clan is a violation of family and community so that total obedience is a given at all times. Hence, the same nobility of besa is also used negatively, against society and normative social frameworks. In addition, Albania still retains the cultural phenomenon of the ‘third sex’ where women become ‘sworn virgins.’ They are released from their traditional feminine role and become a ‘man,’ doing so by a formal oath given to twelve elders in the community. Afterwards, none may remind this ‘man’ of a previous life as a woman. Though the number of sworn virgins in Albania is small, it is still present and any woman may assume this transformation despite modernity and its claims of equality. The Albanian diet reflects its Mediterranean culture, using olive oil and an array of vegetables that provides an abundance of health to its people. There is much to learn from this ancient society. I hope this book does justice to the many traditions and culture of this unique people.
Download or read book Besa written by Norman H. Gershman and published by Syracuse University Press. This book was released on 2008-12-12 with total page 160 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Besa is a code of honor deeply rooted in Albanian culture and incorporated in the faith of Albanian Muslims. It dictates a moral behavior so absolute that nonadherence brings shame and dishonor on oneself and one’s family. Simply stated, it demands that one take responsibility for the lives of others in their time of need. In Albania and Kosovo, Muslims sheltered, at grave risk to themselves and their families, not only the Jews of their cities and villages, but thousands of Jews fleeing the Nazis from other European countries. Over a five-year period, photographer Norman H. Gershman sought out, photographed, and collected these powerful and moving stories of heroism in Besa: Muslims Who Saved Jews in World War II. The book reveals a hidden period in history, slowly emerging after the fall of an isolationist communist regime, and shows the compassionate side of ordinary people in saving Jews. They acted within their true Muslim faith.
Download or read book Tales from Albania written by Mark D. Vickers and published by . This book was released on 2021 with total page 0 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: "TALES FROM ALBANIA takes the reader on a journey through this fascinating and ancient land, a journey through time and place. Included are some personal reminiscences and travels of the author’s three years living in this country he came to love, but he also introduces the reader to aspects of Albanian culture, tradition, folklore and history, often intertwined. The book dips in and out of different aspects of the country and its people in a flowing style, with the aim of sharing some of the author’s own fascination and passion for “the Land of the Eagles”.--Backcover.
Download or read book A Journey Through Albania written by John Cam Hobhouse Baron Broughton and published by . This book was released on 1971 with total page 184 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt:
Download or read book Albania written by Edward Frederick Knight and published by . This book was released on 1880 with total page 358 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt:
Download or read book Albania Travel Guide 2023 written by Travel Advisor and published by Independently Published. This book was released on 2023-05-26 with total page 0 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: With the help of this thorough travel guide, set out on an enthralling journey through Albania's gorgeous landscapes and rich cultural history. This book is your go-to travel companion to discover Albania's hidden gems, whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a place off the beaten road. Learn about Albania's wild beauty as you explore its rocky mountains, spotless beaches, and quaint villages. Each chapter introduces stunning locales that will astound you, from the towering heights of the Accursed Mountains to the pristine waters of the Albanian Riviera. Immerse yourself in Theth and Valbona's pristine landscapes, where lush valleys and tumbling waterfalls create a magical environment. Enjoy a kaleidoscope of flavors while indulging in Albania's thriving culinary industry. This guide will point you in the direction of the best culinary experiences throughout the nation, including mouthwatering traditional delicacies like byrek and frges as well as well-known Albanian wines and raki. Discover the warm hospitality of the welcoming Albanians and take in the vibrant ambiance of the country's bustling marketplaces and boisterous festivals. "Journey through Albania" encourages you to discover an undiscovered jewel of the Balkans with enlightening historical narratives and meticulous, breathtaking photography portraying Albania's splendor. In this alluring land of contrast and beauty, set out on an exciting quest of discovery and make experiences that will last a lifetime.
Download or read book High Albania written by M. Edith Durham and published by Lulu.com. This book was released on 2017-04-23 with total page 199 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: In High Albania, Victorian anthropologist and travel writer M (Mary) Edith Durham presents a vivid and fascinating insight into the culture, customs, people, and the lands of Northern Albania as it was in the early 20th century.
Download or read book BESA written by Pertef Bylykbashi and published by . This book was released on 2019-06-10 with total page 400 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: BESA recounts my life, beginning as a young boy of a large, happy three-generation family living together in southern Albania.
Download or read book FROM ALBANIA TO SICILY written by Adam YAMEY and published by Lulu.com. This book was released on 2014-08-29 with total page 217 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Albanian communities have been in existence in Sicily for over 500 years. Albanians have been living in Sicily since the 15th century. They have preserved their language and and traditions that pre-date the arrival of the Ottomans in the Balkans. This volume is about the descendants of the Albanians who left their Balkan homelands when they were invaded by the Ottoman Turks in the 15th century. Known as the Arbëreshë in Sicily and the other parts of Italy where they settled, many of the descendants of these refugees have managed to continue their Albanian traditions, culture, and language whilst integrating harmoniously with their Italian neighbours. In this book, Adam Yamey describes his visit to the Sicilian Arbëreshë people and illustrates it with a profusion of fascinating photographs. Combining personal observation with in-depth research, this - at times entertaining, and always informative - personal travelogue is one of only a few books in English about Sicily's Albanians.
Download or read book Albania land of eagles Off road guide 2011 written by Filip Weber and published by Filip Weber. This book was released on 2011-01-01 with total page 96 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Albania is a wild and mysterious country of high mountains, deep canyons, rock-strewn tracks, remote villages, rough highlanders, and blood feuds. Yet Albania is also a very friendly country with great and hospitable people. Get to know it driving or riding through this off -road heaven of stone or muddy roadways from the Ottoman Era.
Download or read book The Peaks of Shala written by Rose Wilder Lane and published by . This book was released on 1922 with total page 258 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt:
Download or read book The Accursed Mountains written by Robert Carver and published by HarperPerennial. This book was released on 1999 with total page 396 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The remarkable tale of a series of journeys through remote, extraordinary Albania in the brief period between Communism and anarchy before it was again closed to Western travellers. Travelling by bus, on foot, by mule and horse, staying with Albanians in their houses and crumbling Stalinist tower blocks, Robert Carver meets Vlach shepherds and village intellectuals, ex-Communist Special Forces officers and juvenile heroin smugglers, missionaries with jeeps and light planes, and ex-prisoners of Enver Hoxha who have spent 45 years in the Albanian gulag. In the remote villages of the Accursed Mountains of the far north, he is the first Briton seen since the Second World War, when Intelligence officers were parachuted in to help fight the German occupiers. On his journey to Lake Gashit, high above the snowline on the Serb-Montenegrin border, Carver survives murder attempts and suicidal bus rides. He sees villages last visited by outsiders in 1933, which had effectively been hermetically sealed off from the rest of the world. In Tirana he experiences the contrasting side to life in Albania when he finds himself in the diplomatic set, inadvertantly consorting with Balkan highlife and involved with eccentrics worthy of an Evelyn Waugh novel. High adventure, danger and comedy alike are recounted in this sharp and spirited narrative, a highly original experience of a mysterious mountain land.
Download or read book A Journey Through Albania and Other Provinces of Turkey in Europe and Asia to Constantinople During the Years 1809 and 1810 written by John Cam Hobhouse Baron Broughton and published by . This book was released on 1817 with total page 454 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: A Journey Through Albania, And Other Provinces of Turkey in Europe and Asia, To Constantinople by Baron John Cam Hobhouse Broughton, first published in 1817, is a rare manuscript, the original residing in one of the great libraries of the world. This book is a reproduction of that original, which has been scanned and cleaned by state-of-the-art publishing tools for better readability and enhanced appreciation. Restoration Editors' mission is to bring long out of print manuscripts back to life. Some smudges, annotations or unclear text may still exist, due to permanent damage to the original work. We believe the literary significance of the text justifies offering this reproduction, allowing a new generation to appreciate it.
Download or read book Albania Culture Smart written by Farah Ramadan and published by Kuperard. This book was released on 2013-10-02 with total page 0 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Albania, on the Balkan coast of the Adriatic Sea, is almost the land that time forgot. Waiting to be rediscovered, it is a country rich in natural resources, history, traditions, and culture. Romans, Byzantines, Slavs, Venetians, and Ottoman Turks all left their mark. In modern times, after briefly gaining independence, Albania endured decades of oppression under Italian Fascist, Nazi German, and hard-line Communist rule, and was in the iron grip of the Stalinist dictator Enver Hoxa for thirty-seven years. It emerged from total isolation in the 1980s, cautiously at first, and then with gusto. Student protests in 1991 led to the fall of the Communist regime, since when the country has made remarkable progress toward democratization and economic stability. It has been welcomed into the international community, becoming a member of NATO in 2009, and applying for EU membership in the same year. While many European countries are experiencing economic decline, Albania has enjoyed strong economic growth. It is open to foreign investment, and eager to share its culture with the world. Albanians are sociable, hospitable, opinionated, and proud. Family counts above all else. Close-knit, even clannish to Western eyes, they also have unique history of religious tolerance. Even under Nazi occupation they provided a safe haven for Jews. Most Albanians are nominally Muslim, but society is very secular, and people of all religions live together in harmony. Cultures Smart! Albania gives you the key to understanding modern Albanians. It explains their customs and traditions, offers insights into social values and attitudes, and equips you to engage with people in an informed and open way. It is impossible to visit this extraordinary country without being fascinated by its unusual cultural heritage, appreciating its beautiful coastline, and enjoying the friendliness of its people.
Download or read book Discovering Albania written by William Jones and published by Mamba Press. This book was released on 2023-07-24 with total page 65 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Embark on a captivating journey through the hidden gems and vibrant landscapes of the Balkans with "Discovering Albania: A Comprehensive Travel Guide." This meticulously crafted guidebook is your key to unlocking the secrets of one of Europe's most enchanting destinations, where ancient history meets modern charm. Unveiling the Balkan Gem: Albania, often overlooked but never overshadowed, beckons with a tapestry of diverse experiences waiting to be discovered. "Discovering Albania" is your passport to a land of rugged mountains, pristine coastlines, and rich cultural tapestries that weave tales of resilience and authenticity. What Awaits You: In this comprehensive travel guide, immerse yourself in the heart of Tirana, the bustling capital that seamlessly blends tradition with contemporary energy. Traverse the ancient ruins of Butrint and Apollonia, where history whispers through the winds of time. Feel the sun-kissed sand beneath your feet on the Riviera's pristine beaches and explore the historic streets of Gjirokastër, the City of a Thousand Steps. Uncover the lush landscapes of Theth and Valbona, where nature unfolds in all its untamed beauty. Delve into the flavors of Albania with a culinary journey that tantalizes your taste buds with traditional dishes and local delights. Immerse yourself in the vibrant festivals and traditions that breathe life into the country's cultural heritage. Beyond borders, venture into Kosovo and Montenegro, unraveling the interconnected tales that shape this corner of the Balkans. From outdoor adventures that span from peaks to beaches to the commitment to sustainable travel, "Discovering Albania" is not just a guide; it's an invitation to experience the soul of a nation. Key Features: Comprehensive insights into Albania's diverse regions, from the vibrant capital to the tranquil mountain villages. In-depth exploration of historical sites, ancient ruins, and architectural wonders that tell the tales of Albania's past. A guide to the Riviera's sun-soaked beaches, where relaxation meets adventure. Cultural immersion through festivals, traditions, and the warm hospitality of local communities. Outdoor escapades, from hiking in the Accursed Mountains to exploring hidden valleys and pristine national parks. Beyond Albania's borders: a journey into the interconnected cultures of Kosovo and Montenegro. A dedicated chapter on sustainable travel, empowering you to leave a positive footprint on this Balkan gem. Why "Discovering Albania" Is Your Perfect Companion: This travel guide is more than a collection of recommendations; it's an immersive narrative that guides you through the heart and soul of Albania. Whether you're an adventure seeker, a history enthusiast, a foodie, or a culture lover, this guide ensures that every aspect of your journey is met with authenticity, enthusiasm, and practical insights. Join us as we unravel the mysteries and unveil the wonders of Albania. "Discovering Albania" is not just a travel guide; it's an odyssey waiting to be written by every traveler seeking the extraordinary in the landscapes, cultures, and histories of this Balkan gem. Pack your bags, open these pages, and let the adventure begin. Albania awaits.
Download or read book Travels in Greece and Albania written by T. S.. Hughes and published by . This book was released on 1830 with total page 546 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt:
Download or read book Albanian Journey written by Bernard Newman and published by . This book was released on 1938 with total page 112 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt:
