The Galway Albanian community the Irish Friends of Albania group will celebrate the 100th Anniversary of Albanian Independence this week.
Albania had been part of the Ottoman Empire, but sought to break free during the uprisings of 1908 - 1910. This was followed by Greek, Serbian, and Bulgarian invasions of the territory, resulting in Albanian national movement leader Ismail Qemali - later to become the first Albanian head of state - to proclaim independence on November 28 1912. The independence of Albania was recognised by the Conference of London in July 1913.
Tomorrow at 6pm, Galway Albanians and the Irish Friends of Albania will mark the centenary in City Hall, College Road, when a photographic exhibition dedicated to The 100th Anniversary of Albanian Independence will be officially open by the city arts officer James Harrold.
Galway Albanians and the Irish Friends of Albania will also hold a dinner celebrating the nation’s independence in The Harbour Hotel from 6.30pm next Wednesday. There will be poetry reading, a quiz, and music. Tickets are on sale for €50 which includes the meal and wine.
