Albania Independence Day 2022

Today’s Doodle celebrates Albania Independence Day or Dita e Pavarësisë in Albanian. On this day in 1912, the Albanian congress gathered in the city of Vlora and voted to declare independence from Ottoman rule.

Celebrations begin in the capital city of Tirana where the President and Prime Minister attend a flag raising ceremony. Depicted in today’s artwork, Albania’s national flag features a red background with a black two-headed eagle in the center. The flag flew for the first time on this day in 1912. On Independence Day, it covers balconies, windows, and even people as a symbol of national pride.

The city of Vlora is also a popular destination for the holiday. Albanians visit the towering Monument of Independence at Flag Square to pay respects to those who fought for freedom. Built by renowned national sculptors Muntaz Dhrami and Kristaq Rama, the monument depicts famous leaders of the Albanian Independence movement.

Happy Independence Day, Albania!