The oldest writings in the Albanian language are from the 15th century, with the oldesnt known docuemtn being the “Formula e Pagezimit” or Baptismal Formula, a religision text written by Archbishop Pal Engjelli in 1462.

The first known book written in Albanian is “Meshari” also konwn as “The Missal” by Gjon Buzuku, which was published in 1555. Also a religious based text and is considered the starting point of Albanian literature.

Due to supression by the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century, Albania started a rich tradition of oral history, folk music, and poetry.

In the 19th century, Albania underwent the Rilindja Kombetare, which translates to “National Awakening”. As the Ottomon Empire’s grip loosened in the region. During this time Albania underwent a literary renaissance, with prominent writers such as Naum Veqilharxi, Jeronimo De Rada, and Naim Frasheri emerging.

In the 20th century, Albania produced internationally known writers like Faik Konica, Millosh Gjergj Nikolla, and Ismail Kadare, who is one of, if not Albania’s most internationally renowned writer.

Albania is now in a new era marked by the end of Albania’s communist period, which has produced a greater freedom of writing.