#1 MOTW - Qendër, Albania

The name Albania comes from Greek and Roman sources, referring to the colour white. The Albanians themselves use the name Shqipëria, which means Land of Eagles. The legend says that a young Albanian saved a little eagle from a snake, for which the eagle rewarded him with excellent eyesight and the strength of eagle wings. The young man also received the protection and supervision of the bracken.

 

#47 GF - Elbasan, Albania

Elbasan is the fourth most populous city of the Republic of Albania. The Albanian name is derived from the Ottoman Turkish il-basan - "the fortress". Elbasan is home to the Summer Day festivities, a pagan feast celebrating the end of winter and the coming of summer.

 

#9 FOTW - Korçë, Albania

Korçë - is known as southern Albania’s intellectual capital and is also regarded as the Albanian cultural metropolis. 

It is the home of the largest carnival in Albania that takes place before Orthodox Easter, a tradition dating back 40 years. Musically, the city is known for the local songs, called serenata.