Tirana: The Evolution of Albania's Capital City

Tirana has been the largest city in Albania for a significant period, particularly since it became the capital in 1920. However, prior to this, other cities such as Shkod?r and Vlor? were also important urban centers. The growth of Tirana accelerated during the 20th century due to industrialization, urbanization, and political factors, making it the most populous city in the country. Today, it remains the largest city in Albania, both in terms of population and economic activity.

Tirana Before Its Capital Status

Tirana did not become the largest city in Albania until after World War II. Before this time, the two largest urban centers were Kruj? and Shkod?r. Kruj? was slightly larger than Shkod?r and had been more like a small town or a large village, a town made mostly of private houses with courtyards. Surrounding towns such as Shkod?r, Durr?s, Kavaj?, and Elbasan have been historically more important than Tirana. In earlier centuries, cities such as Berat and Gjirokaster were also very important, as was Voskopoja.

Today, Kruj? and Shkod?r, as well as Berat and Gjirokaster, are the only urban centers where the urban tradition is still strongly felt. The people and the towns themselves reflect this rich heritage, making them unique and culturally significant.

Historical Urban Centers in Albania

Other noteworthy ancient cities in Albania include:

Pllumbas Cave

Tirana itself was not the largest city in Albania, but it was inhabited during the Paleolithic era. Pllumbas Cave is one of the notable sites from this period. Additionally, another important ancient city is located near Pllumbas Cave, believed to be Brysake, a city with ruins dating back to the 5th century BCE. The city was nearly 6 meters wide with walls and covered an area of 20 hectares. Archaeologists have found an imperial tomb inside, though it was later plundered.

Petrela

The city of Petrela, located near Petrela, is another significant historical site. It was believed to be Brysake, a city mentioned in the ancient Illyrian records. Its ruins are on a mountain overseeing Tirana and date back to the 5th century BCE. The ancient walls, over 6 meters wide, indicated that it was an important city, covering an area of 20 hectares. The discovery of an imperial tomb within the city walls suggests its importance during that era.

Kruj? and Shkod?r

Although Kruj? and Shkod?r were larger than Tirana before 1920, they played significant roles in the region's history. Shkod?r, in particular, has a long history of being an important city. In 1614, Kruj? began to flourish, and the region has been continuously inhabited since the Iron Age. Some of the notable heritage of that period can be seen in the Mosaics of Tirana and a Paleochristian basilica built around the same site in the 5th and 6th centuries.

Tirana's Role in Modern Times

Tirana became the provisional capital of Albania in 1920 and was designated as the country's permanent capital after 1925. Since then, the city has undergone significant growth and development, becoming the cultural, economic, and political center of Albania. With its rich history and dynamic present, Tirana remains a significant city in the region, showcasing its blend of traditional and modern influences.

Keywords: Tirana, Albania, Urban Development