southernAlban

Southern Albania, also known as Gjirokastra or Gjirokastër, is a region in southern Albania. The city of Gjirokastra, which is also known by the same name, is the administrative center of the region. Southern Albania is a historically significant region with a blend of ancient Greek, Roman, and Ottoman influences on its culture, architecture, and landscape.

Geographically, the region is bounded by the Vlorë district to the northwest, the Korce district to the northeast, and the Ionian Sea to the southwest. The landscape is characterized by mountains, hills, and valleys, with the Drino River flowing through the region. The climate is Mediterranean, with hot summers and mild winters.

Southern Albania has a distinct cultural heritage, influenced by its history as an ancient Greek city and its later conversion to a Roman settlement. After the fall of the Roman Empire, the region was conquered by the Byzantine Empire and later by the Ottoman Empire. These historical influences are still visible in the region's architecture, with many tower-like houses, known as "Kulla", still standing. The city of Gjirokastra was a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site in 2005.

The population of Southern Albania is predominantly Albanian, with Christian and Muslim minorities. The local economy is primarily based on agriculture, with significant production of grapes, maize, and livestock. The region also attracts tourists interested in exploring its history, culture, and natural beauty.