It is a sunny coastal land with snow capped mountains.
(source: Encyclopedia Britannica)
The Republic of Albania became independent in 1912 from the Ottoman Empire. Prior to it, the country was established by the Principality of Arber in the Middle Ages. The Ottomans took over in the 15th century.
Due to the long period of muslim control of the Ottomans, the majority religion continues to be in Albania muslim (58.79%).
The flag of Albania has one dominating color - Red. The shade of red color changed many times and through different regimes. Nevertheless, red forms the background for a silhouette of a double headed eagle.
(source: CIA World Fact Book)
The red color of the flag is a remembrance of George Kastrioti Skanderbeg's coat who was from a noble Albanian family ruling the country. Because Kastrioti headed a military alliance in 1444 against the Ottomans, he is since then regarded as the national hero of Albania.
The name "Albania" is derived from the word "Shqiponje" meaning Eagle. Therefore, Albania is fondly called the Land of the Eagles. This also explains why the national bird of Albania is eagle.
The love for the double headed eagle runs throughout the history of Albania. The eagle symbolizes victory, bravery and discipline. As a result, the image was used in armorial bearings in the Middle Ages by rich noble Albanians.
Gradually, the image grew to be sacred to the place, its natives, culture, language and politics. Even today to express happiness the image of double headed eagle is often shown by intertwining the thumbs of both hands and flapping of fingers by Albanian politicians, sportspersons and religious heads.
The double headed eagle is also interpreted as male and female emerging from a single body. Others regard the image to be that of a protector who has eyes on either side for the enemy of the country.
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