Albania Flag and Meaning

by countryaah · Published August 11, 2020 · Updated December 18, 2024

Flag of Albania

Albania Flag Meaning

The flag of Albania is a striking and powerful symbol that features a bold design. It consists of a red field with a black, two-headed eagle in the center. The eagle is depicted in full flight with its wings spread wide, creating an imposing and dynamic image. The red background is a vivid shade that conveys a sense of strength and resilience, while the black eagle is both a symbol of national pride and a historical reference to Albania’s past.

This design has deep historical roots, with the eagle being a symbol of the Albanian people for centuries. The flag reflects the nation’s values, history, and aspirations, standing as a testament to the country’s independence and sovereignty. The flag’s simplicity and strong visual impact make it immediately recognizable around the world.

Flag Dimensions and Proportions

The official proportions of the flag are defined by law in Albania, and these dimensions are crucial for maintaining consistency and the official nature of the flag’s appearance. The flag’s proportions are set at a ratio of 5:7, meaning the length of the flag is one and a half times greater than its height.

Height to Width Ratio: 5:7
Size Guidelines: The standard size of the flag used for display on public buildings is generally defined as 1.5 meters in height by 2.1 meters in length. Smaller flags are used for other purposes, but the proportions remain consistent.

These dimensions contribute to the flag’s balanced and symmetrical look, ensuring that the eagle and the red background maintain visual harmony regardless of the size of the flag.

Colors of the Flag

The flag of Albania primarily uses two colors: red and black. Each color carries specific meanings and significance to the Albanian people.

Red: The red color is a symbol of the courage, valor, and determination of the Albanian people. It also represents the blood shed during the struggle for independence and freedom. The color is vibrant and bold, reflecting the strength and resilience of the nation. It is often associated with the idea of revolution and resistance, as red flags were historically used during uprisings and wars.
Black: The black color of the eagle stands for the strength and unity of the Albanian people. It also represents the sovereign nature of Albania and its commitment to defending its independence. The black eagle is a traditional symbol of the Albanians, reflecting their historical heritage and warrior spirit. It also stands as a symbol of protection and guardianship, underscoring the importance of the nation’s defense of its territory.

Together, the combination of red and black creates a bold and striking visual that captures the essence of Albania’s history, identity, and national spirit.

Symbols on the Flag

The most prominent feature of the Albanian flag is the two-headed eagle in the center. This symbol is rich in historical and cultural meaning, and it is one of the most important elements of the national identity.

The Two-Headed Eagle: The two-headed eagle has ancient roots in the region, dating back to the Byzantine Empire and even earlier to the Illyrian and Thracian civilizations. It is a symbol of strength, unity, and sovereignty. The two heads are meant to represent the idea of duality and balance. They also suggest the country’s historical role as a bridge between the East and the West. The eagle’s spread wings signify freedom, power, and the reach of the Albanian people throughout their land and beyond.

The two-headed eagle is often used to reflect the unification of the Albanian people across different regions. It represents not just the country of Albania, but also Albanians living in neighboring countries such as Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and southern Serbia, regions where the Albanian diaspora remains strong.

Historical Significance of the Eagle: The eagle has been a symbol of the Albanians since the Middle Ages. The emblem was first used as a part of the national insignia by the medieval Albanian kingdoms, including the Principality of Arbër and the Kingdom of Albania. During the reign of the Albanian national hero Skanderbeg in the 15th century, the eagle was incorporated into the banner of rebellion against the Ottoman Empire, and it continues to serve as a symbol of Albanian national identity.

Cultural and National Identity

The flag of Albania is not only a symbol of the country’s sovereignty but also a representation of its rich cultural heritage and the values cherished by the Albanian people. It holds a deep connection to the nation’s struggles for independence and the formation of the modern Albanian state.

Historical Context: Albania declared its independence from the Ottoman Empire on November 28, 1912, and the flag used today was officially adopted shortly thereafter. The two-headed eagle emblem became a symbol of the nation’s new-found independence, reflecting the desire for self-rule and autonomy. The choice of a red flag with a black eagle was rooted in Albanian history and national pride.

The flag’s symbolism also harkens back to Albania’s involvement in various wars and uprisings throughout history, including the resistance against the Ottoman Empire, as well as the country’s role in the First and Second Balkan Wars. The red color connects to the blood spilled in these struggles, and the black eagle signifies the strength and resilience needed to secure Albania’s independence.

Unity of Albanians: The Albanian flag’s symbolism extends beyond the borders of Albania. Albanians living in neighboring countries often identify strongly with the flag, seeing it as a symbol of cultural unity and solidarity. This sense of national identity is shared by millions of Albanians across the world, whether in Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, or the Albanian diaspora in countries like the United States, Italy, and Canada.
The Role of National Heroes: The flag is also associated with Albania’s national heroes, particularly Gjergj Kastrioti, known as Skanderbeg, who led a rebellion against the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century. Skanderbeg’s emblem, which featured a black eagle, is often seen as the precursor to the modern Albanian flag. Skanderbeg remains an iconic figure in Albania’s history, and his legacy is closely tied to the symbol of the eagle.

The flag of Albania also speaks to the nation’s pride in its cultural and linguistic heritage. Albanians have a long history, with influences from Illyrian, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman cultures, all of which have shaped the country’s identity. The flag reflects a collective memory of struggle, perseverance, and survival through centuries of foreign domination and internal division.

Symbol of Resistance: The Albanian flag has been a symbol of resistance and defiance. During the 20th century, particularly under the communist regime of Enver Hoxha, the flag was used as a representation of Albania’s stand against imperialism and its commitment to socialism. Even today, it is seen as a symbol of the country’s transformation and the democratic ideals that have flourished since the fall of communism in the early 1990s.
Flag in Albanian Society: The flag is deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of Albania. It is displayed at public buildings, schools, and homes, and it plays a prominent role in national celebrations and patriotic events. November 28, the day of Albania’s independence, is marked by flag-raising ceremonies and national events that honor the significance of the Albanian flag.

The flag is also a common sight during sporting events, where Albanian athletes proudly wave it to show their allegiance and national pride. The flag’s colors and the eagle symbol are instantly recognizable by Albanians worldwide, uniting people regardless of their location.

Flag Evolution and Modern Use

The current flag of Albania was adopted in 1912 following the declaration of independence. However, Albania has seen several different flags throughout its history, particularly during periods of foreign rule and shifting political ideologies.

Ottoman Era Flags: Before independence, Albania was under the rule of the Ottoman Empire for over four centuries. During this period, the flag used by the Albanian territories was typically the flag of the Ottoman Empire itself, which was a crescent moon and star. After the declaration of independence, the two-headed eagle became the central element of Albania’s national identity.
Communist Era Flags: Under the communist regime of Enver Hoxha (1946–1991), the flag retained its basic structure but was modified with the addition of socialist symbols such as a red star. After the fall of the regime in the early 1990s, the flag reverted to its current design, symbolizing Albania’s return to democratic governance and its continued commitment to its independence and sovereignty.

Albania Overview

Population	3.1 million
Currency	New leaks
Area	28.750 km²
Capital city	Tirana
Population density	107.8 residents/km²
HDI location	64

Albania is located on the Balkan Peninsula out to the Adriatic Sea. The coastline consists of two parts. The border area with Yugoslavia on the Gulf of Vlorë consists of flooded lowland areas which in winter become partly swampy. Further south, the coast has a Mediterranean climate and is characterized by mountains. The interior of the country is mountainous, the lands are poor and cattle farming is dominant. In the lowlands cotton, tobacco and maize are grown. In the valleys rice, olives, wine and wheat. Large parts of the country are covered with forests. The country is rich in minerals and contains oil deposits.

The people: Albanians (96%). Ethnically homogeneous people, although there are contradictions between the gays in the north and the fools in the south. In addition, Greek and Bulgarian minorities exist.

Religion: Religion was again allowed in 1989 after being banned in 1967. Information from before 67 pointed to Islam as the most important religion (70%), Orthodox Albanians (20%) and Catholics (10%).

Languages: Albanian (official) and various dialects.

Political parties: The Constitution of April 30, 1991 states Albania as a multi-party state. The Ex-Communist Socialist Party (PS) today advocates for a democratic socialism and market economy. The Liberal Democratic Democratic Party (PDA) advocates for market economy. The Social Democratic Party (PSD) is in favor of gradual reforms. Union for Human Rights. Republican Albanian Party (PRA). The Federation of Albanian Women, Independently Without Parliamentary Representation. The Organic Party.

Social organizations: The Union of Free Trade Unions in Albania (BSPSH) and KSSH are the main national organizations.

Official name: Republíka e Shqipërísé

Administrative Division: 26 districts

Capital: Tirana (Tiranë), 618,000 residents (2008).

Other important cities: Elbasan, 101,300 residents; Durazzo (Durrës), 98,400 residents; Shkoder (Scutari), 84,300 residents; Valona (Florida), 81,000 in. (2000)

Government: Parliamentary Republic. Ilir Meta has been President since July 2017. Edi Rama has been Prime Minister and Head of Government since September 2013. The People’s Assembly is a one-chamber legislative body with 140 members elected every 4 years.

National Day: November 28. The Anniversary of Independence from the Ottomans (1912)

Armed Forces: 73,000 (22,400 recruits).

Paramilitary forces: 16,000; International Security Force: 5,000; people militia: 3,500.