Krujë, birthplace of Albania's hero

The Ottoman Empire controlled much of this region for hundreds of years, leaving a lasting cultural and religious influence. In the mid 1400s, Albanian leader Skanderbeg led a rebellion against the Empire. Skanderbeg successfully defended against three Ottoman sieges. Today he is remembered as a national hero, and the Albanian flag is similar to Skanderbeg's red flag standard with a black double-headed eagle.

The 400-year old Ottoman-style bazaar in Krujë offered a mix of traditional crafts and generic trinkets. We encountered a skilled wool artist making the traditional white wool fez hats as well as adaptations that serve as modern lighting fixtures.

We loved getting a taste of Albania's rich culture. The Krujë ethnographic museum shared examples of Albanian agricultural, artistic, religious, and other traditions. We were able to even digitally try on some traditional outfits!Read more