Albania

The ancestors of Albania, the Illyrians, were successively ruled by the ancient Romans, Goths, Huns, and Slavs until the end of the 12th century (late Southern Song Dynasty in China) when they established the first principality in history in the Krujë area. In the 14th century, it was invaded by the Ottoman Turks. In the early 15th century, the Albanian national hero Skanderbeg led the people in resistance for 25 years but ultimately failed, and Albania was Islamized. In the last century, the Albanian government built the Skanderbeg Museum on the ruins of Krujë Castle. The museum mainly showcases weapons and battle scenes, highlighting the fighting spirit of the Albanian people. In two days, Albania visited two ancient castles with war relics. In our memory, this country was simultaneously anti-American and anti-Soviet, with the entire population militarized and billions invested in bunker construction. It is said that there were hundreds of thousands of bunkers nationwide, leading to economic stagnation. It was China, also under pressure from the US and the Soviet Union, that provided them with selfless assistance, helping them overcome difficulties. Unfortunately, we didn't see many bunkers this time; it is said that many have been dismantled in recent years. Today, apart from the capital Tirana, the few cities we passed through still feel like Chinese coastal third-tier cities in the 1990s. The national and provincial roads are only at the level of China's third-class highways, with severe traffic congestion. A short distance of just over 40 kilometers took nearly 2 hours, significantly reducing the time for the evening tour of Budva. People need a fighting spirit, but I believe they are more eager for economic development and improvement in living standards. Fortunately, in the past decade, Albania's per capita GDP has doubled, reaching over $8,000, and highways are gradually being built. Krujë Castle and Skanderbeg Museum Shkodër city center National and provincial roads from Tirana to Shkodër Capital Tirana city center