7 March: A Day of Historical Significance for Albania

7 March stands as a date of profound resonance in the rich tapestry of Albanian history, witnessing events that have shaped the course of its destiny. On this day, two significant moments are woven into the fabric of Albanian history, each marking a turning point in the struggle for education and independence. On the one hand, the opening of Albania's first national school, a symbol of cultural rebirth and affirmation of Albanian identity; on the other, the arrival of a European royal figure, destined to rule, albeit briefly, over the fortunes of a country in search of stability and recognition. This post aims to explore and celebrate the importance of these events, reflecting on their lasting impact on Albania.

Mësonjëtorja of Korça: The Dawn of Albanian Education

Albanian Chronicles Diary
7 March 1887

7 March 1887 marked a fundamental chapter in the educational history of Albania with the opening of the first Albanian national school in Korçë, an event that symbolised resistance and cultural rebirth in a period characterised by the rule of the Ottoman Empire. This educational initiative not only marked the beginning of a path towards cultural self-determination, but also represented an important step forward in the struggle for the preservation of Albanian identity.

The foundation of this school was a direct reflection of the aspirations of the Albanian National Movement, which aimed at the assertion of national rights within the empire. The Mësonjëtorja quickly became a centre of enlightenment, offering an education that combined learning the Albanian language with patriotic values, at a time when Albanian cultural expression was severely restricted.

The day of its opening is today celebrated as Teacher's Day in Albania, highlighting the lasting impact of this event on Albanian education and society.

The realisation of this school was possible thanks to the work and dedication of key figures of the Albanian Renaissance, including Naim Frashëri and his brother Sami, who managed to obtain permission for the opening of an Albanian school in Korçë from Sultan Abdylhamid II. Financial support came not only from the Albanian diaspora in Romania, but also from the Albanian community in Istanbul, who saw in Pandeli Sotiri the ideal figure to head the new institution.

Located in a building donated by Diamant Terpo, the school inaugurated its educational activities by welcoming students from all social classes, offering courses ranging from Albanian language and literature to history, geography and science. This inclusive and democratic approach to education reflected the progressive vision of its founders.

Despite restrictions imposed by the Ottoman government, which restricted education in the Albanian language, the school remained open for several years, becoming a symbol of cultural tenacity and resistance. Even after its temporary closure, the school reopened its doors, continuing to educate future generations and spread Albanian culture and language.

The contribution of this institution to education in Albania was immense, paving the way for the emergence of a national consciousness and a strong sense of cultural identity among Albanians. The dedication of its teachers and supporters, who worked tirelessly to provide educational resources and promote education in a difficult context, was crucial to the success of Mësonjëtorja.

In memory of its significant contribution to Albanian education and culture, 7 March remains a day of celebration and reflection, a tribute to the determination of a people to preserve and promote their cultural heritage against all odds.

The Choice of a King: William of Wied and Albania

Albanian Chronicles Diary
7 March 1914

29 July 1913 marked a crucial moment in the history of Albania, when the Conference of Ambassadors in London decided that Albania would be recognised as an autonomous, sovereign and hereditary principality. This decision was made under the guarantee of the six Powers, which would be responsible for designating the Prince who would lead the new state. The territorial and political scheme that would characterise Albania was also outlined, marking the beginning of a path towards self-determination and national sovereignty. This event was not only a turning point for the Albanian people but also represented a significant example of international diplomacy of the time, highlighting the role of European powers in redefining borders and influencing the fate of small Balkan states.

Following the decision, it was decided that the Prince of Albania would be appointed within six months. In the meantime, the existing local authorities and the gendarmerie would remain operational under the supervision of an international commission. This transitional phase also stipulated that security and public order would be guaranteed by an international gendarmerie organisation, headed by foreign officers in charge of high and effective command. The presence of foreign instructors was intended to ensure uniformity of service without prejudice to the use of local personnel, including officers, non-commissioned officers and gendarmes. The salaries of this corps were to be financed from the internal resources of the country, with the financial guarantee of the Powers.

28 November 1913 represented a significant moment in the young history of independent Albania. On that very day, in the context of celebrating the first anniversary of its declaration of independence, the great European powers decided to officially announce their choice for the leadership of the Albanian principality. The figure selected to fill the role of prince was Wilhelm of Wied, a member of a distinguished noble family from Rhine Prussia. This character had considerable ties to European courts, being a nephew of the Queen of Romania and consort of a princess belonging to the House of Schönburg-Waldenburg.

The choice of a prince of the Protestant faith to rule Albania was not accidental, but reflected a well-thought-out strategy by the European powers. This decision was an attempt to introduce an element of guarantee and balance in a territory where the population was divided between different religions and confessions. The idea was that the prince's religious neutrality could act as a catalyst for the unification of the country, as well as representing a bridge between Albania and the western powers.

On 28 February 1914, the formal ceremony of offering the Albanian crown took place in Neuwied Castle, the family residence of Wilhelm of Wied. This event was not just a formality but symbolised the link between European nobility and the destiny of a nation seeking to assert its sovereignty and identity in the international context. With this ceremony, Albania was about to embark on a new chapter in its history, under the leadership of a figure who, although alien to local dynamics, was seen as the bearer of stability and progress.

On 7 March 1914, Wilhelm Frederick Henry of Wied, a man at the height of his maturity and chosen by the great powers to sit on the throne of Albania, stepped onto Albanian soil for the first time in the port of Durrës. His regency would be brief, limited to only six months, but that arrival marked the beginning of a distinct chapter in Albanian history, destined to be told in a different context.

The historical moments we have explored, both of which fell under the auspices of 7 March, represent more than mere notes on a calendar; they are living symbols of the aspirations and changes of an entire nation. The inauguration of the Mësonjëtorja in Korçë lit a torch of knowledge in an age of obscurantism, laying the foundations for modern education in Albania and celebrating Albanian language and culture as never before. Likewise, the arrival of William of Wied symbolised the search for a new political direction, a brief but intense episode that left an indelible mark on the country's history. Together, these events reflect the resilience and determination of Albanians to build a better future, reminding us of the importance of honouring the past as we venture towards new horizons. In remembering 7 March, we celebrate not only education and governance, but the indomitable spirit of a people that has always been able to find the light even in the darkest of times. We now invite our readers to reflect on these chapters of Albanian history and share their perceptions on their legacy and impact on Albania today.