Religion in Albania

Religious affiliation was denied during communism. Affiliation is now a majority Muslim, then Orthodox, a smattering of and Bektashi Teqe ( a Muslim Sect), and I read about the occasional evangelical Christian mission in the rural areas.

Practioners appear to be less radical and emphatic than in the USA (isn't everyplace?) and other Muslim countries. My guides and hosts claimed to be Muslim, but very relaxed practioners. My hosts were also Bektashi Teqe practioners and showed me photos of when they went on the anual retreat to the mountains for a ceremony and sacrifice/feast of many sheep. My host Mirella and I stopped by the Orthodox chapel one evening, and she lit a candle and touched the icon as is the Orthodox custom. I think that many embrace all faiths.

Orthodox Chapel

Orthodox clock and bell tower

Chapel through the gate

Duress Mosque

Chandelier in Duress Mosque

Tirana mosque

Bektashi Teqe mosque (muslim sect)

Green is the color of honoring death

Bektashi Teqe meeting room and place of prayer