Albania marked today the 100th anniversary of the Order of Skanderbeg with a solemn ceremony at the Palace of Congresses in Tirana. President Bajram Begaj, Prime Minister Edi Rama, and leading figures from culture, academia, and public life attended the event.

A documentary opened the evening, tracing the Order from 1925 to today. Historic and modern medals were displayed on stage, led by the original 1925 Necklace of Honor.

Prime Minister Edi Rama said the Order carries the name of Albania’s national hero — the figure who “planted the seed of the state in the soil of freedom.” He noted that, for a century, the Order survived monarchy, dictatorship, and the difficult years of transition.

Rama highlighted the government’s reform of the medal system, aiming to restore merit, dignity, and alignment with European standards. He said the new Chancellery of Orders and Medals will preserve this heritage and honor contributions that move the country forward.

“The Order of Skanderbeg is reborn with a European spirit,” Rama said. “It reminds us that Albania’s future must be built on merit, responsibility, and respect — not on power or privilege.”

/a.c/