Independence Day in Albania (28/11)

Independence Day in Albania (Dita e Pavarësisë) — is the main national holiday celebrated in the country annually on November 28, also known as Albanian Flag Day.

In November 2012, the Republic of Albania widely celebrated the 100th anniversary of independence and the adoption of the Declaration of State Sovereignty of the country, which was signed on November 28, 1912. Before gaining independence, Albania had no statehood, being an integral part of the Ottoman Empire for more than 500 years.

In 1909, the Albanian national uprising began, which in 1912 ended in success and led to the weakening of the power of the Ottoman Empire. As a result, Austria-Hungary, Great Britain, Germany, Italy, Russia and France first recognized Albania's autonomy, and then — its independence from Turkey.

The most significant contribution to Albania's independence was made by Ismail Qemali (1844—1919) — leader of the Albanian National Movement, who founded and was the first to head the Albanian government. He had an active role in the adoption of the Albanian Declaration of Independence and in the formation of the government of independent Albania on November 28, 1912.

Today, this main holiday of the country is celebrated annually very solemnly and widely, and the national flag is raised above all official institutions. The festive program of the Day includes a military parade in Tirana, concerts of folk ensembles and popular artists, which take place both in the capital and in the city of Vlora. Albanians lay flowers and wreaths at the Kemal monument.

Independence Day is also celebrated by all Albanians living in other countries.

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