Albanesi

Albanesi is the Italian plural noun used as a demonym for Albanians—the people of Albania and individuals of Albanian descent. In addition, Albanesi is a surname found in Italian-speaking contexts.

Origin and distribution: The word derives from Latin Albanus. The Albanian nation is centered in the modern states of Albania and Kosovo, with significant populations in North Macedonia, Montenegro, and other Balkan regions. Large diasporas have established communities across Europe and the Americas, including Italy, Greece, Germany, Switzerland, the United States, and elsewhere.

Language: The Albanian language is an independent branch of the Indo-European family, with two primary dialects, Gheg and Tosk. Standard Albanian is largely based on the Tosk dialect. Albanian has its own historical and literary development, with a rich oral tradition and influences from surrounding languages.

History and culture: The Albanian ethnogenesis dates to the medieval period; notable historical groups include the Arbëreshë, Albanian communities established in southern Italy from the 15th century onward, who preserved the Albanian language and Catholic liturgical traditions.

As a surname: Albanesi is a family name in Italy and among Italian communities; the name does not denote a specific person or lineage beyond its ordinary usage.