Dibra

Dibra, or Dibër in Albanian, is a historical-geographic region in the western Balkans. In Albanian usage the term denotes the northern part of Albania's highland region centered on the valley of the Drin river and extending into surrounding hill country, and it is also used to refer to the cross-border area around Debar in present-day North Macedonia. The name reflects a shared cultural and geographic space rather than a single administrative unit.

Geography: The landscape is predominantly mountainous, part of the Albanian Alps and adjacent ranges. The Drin river and its tributaries shape the valleys, creating a mix of pastures, forests and settlements at various altitudes. The area lies near the border with North Macedonia and has long served as a corridor for movement between regions.

History: The Dibra region has roots in Illyrian and later Roman-era territories, and it was incorporated into the Ottoman Empire. In modern times, the concept of Dibra spans the border between Albania and North Macedonia, with historical communities that have maintained cross-border ties and bilingual or bicultural links.

Economy and culture: Economic activity varies by locality but has traditionally included agriculture, animal husbandry and timber, with mining present in some subregions. Cultural life centers on Albanian linguistic and folk traditions, with cross-border cultural exchanges in towns such as Debar.

Demographics: The area is predominantly Albanian-speaking in the Albanian side, with minority communities on both sides of the border in cross-border towns.