Historical and Political Geography

Abstract

In the last 2500 years, different peoples and cultures have lived in the territory of Albania where they have left their cultural traces, starting with the Illyrians-Arbëri-Albanian, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Venetian, Ottoman, and up to modern history. All these elements together have created cultural and natural landscapes which have left their special features during the history of the transformation in the territory of Albania.

These events are related to the fact that the territory of Albania has often been part of various great empires or kingdoms dominant in history, such as the Roman, Byzantine, Bulgarian, and Ottoman Empires. The territory got the name “Albania” only in the late Middle Ages.

All these historical developments have influenced the geopolitical role that the country has played in different historical periods. This role has been dependent on many historical events, economic developments, and its influence and power in the region and beyond. The question arises, How has Albania used its geographical position and specific natural and cultural conditions in favor of its geopolitical role?