Tirana—The Capital of the Most 'Non-European' European Country

Tirana is the largest city in Albania, located in the basin on the western side of Mount Kruja in the central region, by the Ishëm River, surrounded by mountains on three sides, and 27 kilometers west of the Adriatic coastline. When you come to Tirana, you must visit Skanderbeg Square. Skanderbeg Square features the Et'hem Bey Mosque built in 1819, the Clock Tower built in 1830, the National History Museum, the Opera House, Tirana University, and nearby government office buildings constructed during the Italian Mussolini era, which are very beautiful. There is also a bronze equestrian statue of Skanderbeg completed in 1969. Skanderbeg is a national hero of Albania from the 15th century, who led the people in resisting Ottoman rule for over 20 years. He used the black double-headed eagle as his emblem, which later evolved into today's Albanian flag. Several tree-lined avenues radiate from the square. There are many newly opened shops around the square, making Skanderbeg Square the liveliest place in Tirana. New buildings are being constructed everywhere, with the construction industry growing at a rate of 20% annually, changing the face of Albania and driving the development of the Albanian economy. Skanderbeg Square is fresh, beautiful, and very modern. The Albanians walking in the square are well-dressed and confident. The impression Albania left on me is not one of poverty, but of prosperity. This is a rapidly developing country.