Editing Geography of Albania

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{{Use dmy dates|date=September 2020}}
{{Infobox place geography
| map = Albania_map-en.svg
| map size = 250px
| continent = [[Europe]]
| region = [[Mediterranean Sea]]<br />[[Southeastern Europe]]
| coordinates = <!-- Use {{Coord}} -->
| km area = 28748
| percent land = 97.7
| percent water = 2.3
| km coastline = 476
| borders = {{plainlist|1=
* [[Greece]] {{convert|212|km|abbr=on}}
* [[Montenegro]] {{convert|186|km|abbr=on}}
* [[North Macedonia]] {{convert|181|km|abbr=on}}
* [[Kosovo]] {{convert|112|km|abbr=on}}
}}
| highest point = [[Mount Korab]]<br />{{convert|2764|m|abbr=on}}
| lowest point = [[Adriatic Sea]]<br />{{convert|0|m|abbr=on}}
| longest river = [[Drin River|River of Drin]]<br />{{convert|335|km|abbr=on}}
| largest lake = [[Lake of Shkodër]]<br />{{convert|530|km2|abbr=on}}
}}

'''[[Albania]]''' is a country in [[southeastern Europe]] that lies along the [[Adriatic]] and [[Ionian Sea|Ionian Seas]], with a coastline spanning approximately {{convert|476|km|0|abbr=on}}.<ref name="Albania pdf">{{cite web| author=R. Eftimi|url=http://aguas.igme.es/igme/publica/tiac-02/ALBANIA-I.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050219220356/http://aguas.igme.es/igme/publica/tiac-02/ALBANIA-I.pdf |archive-date=2005-02-19 |url-status=live|title=Some Considerations on Seawater-Freshwater Relationship in Albanian Coastal Area|publisher=ITA Consult}}</ref> Situated on the [[Balkans|Balkan Peninsula]], it is one of the most mountainous countries in [[Europe]]. It is bounded by [[Montenegro]] to the northwest, [[Kosovo]] to the northeast, [[North Macedonia]] to the east and [[Greece]] to the southeast and south.<ref>{{cite web|title=Albania country profile|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-17679574|website=BBC News|date=19 June 2017}}<br>- {{cite web|title=Introduction|url=http://dspace.epoka.edu.al/bitstream/handle/1/372/649-1923-1-PB.pdf?sequence=1|website=dspace.epoka.edu.al|format=PDF|quote=Albania has 28.748 square kilometers area and the length of the borderline of the Republic of Albania is 1094 km, of which 657 km land border, 316 km of coastline, 48 km and 73 km through rivers dividing line through the lakes.}}<br>- {{cite web|title=Albania|url=https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/albania/|website=World Fact Book|date=27 September 2022 |publisher=CIA|quote=Southeastern Europe, bordering the Adriatic Sea and Ionian Sea, between Greece to the south and Montenegro and Kosovo to the north}}</ref>

Most of Albania rises into mountains and hills, tending to run the length of the country from north to south, as for instance the [[Albanian Alps]] in the north, the [[Sharr Mountains]] in the northeast, the [[Central Mountain Range, Albania#Skanderbeg Mountains|Skanderbeg Mountains]] in the center, the [[Korab|Korab Mountains]] in the east, the [[Pindus Mountains]] in the southeast, and the [[Ceraunian Mountains]] in the southwest. Plains and plateaus extend in the west along the [[Albanian Adriatic Sea Coast|Albanian Adriatic]] and [[Albanian Ionian Sea Coast|Ionian Sea Coast]].

Some of the most considerable and oldest bodies of [[freshwater]] of [[Europe]] can be found in Albania. The second largest lake of [[Southern Europe]], the [[Lake of Shkodër]], is located in the northwest surrounded by the Albanian Alps and the Adriatic Sea.<ref>{{cite web|title=IBAC 2012 vol.2|url=http://dspace.epoka.edu.al/bitstream/handle/1/372/649-1923-1-PB.pdf?sequence=1|website=dspace.epoka.edu.al|page=253|format=PDF|quote=In the North-Western part of the country, there is the Shkoder Lake, which is the largest in the Balkan Peninsula.}}</ref> And one of the oldest continuously existing lakes in the world, the [[Lake of Ohrid]], lies in the southeast,<ref>{{cite web|title=Natural and Cultural Heritage of the Ohrid region|url=https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/99|publisher=UNESCO|quote=Situated on the shores of Lake Ohrid, the town of Ohrid is one of the oldest human settlements in Europe;  Lake Ohrid is a superlative natural phenomenon, providing refuge for numerous endemic and relict freshwater species of flora and fauna dating from the tertiary period. As a deep and ancient lake of tectonic origin, Lake Ohrid has existed continuously for approximately two to three million years.}}<br>- {{cite web|url=http://www.investinmacedonia.com/page.aspx?language=&page=O25QDpgVFLj9Bfg/vkoGyw==|title=Lake Ohrid; Invest in Macedonia – Agency for Foreign Investments of the Republic of Macedonia|website=InvestInMacedonia.com|access-date=3 June 2017|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://archive.today/20080914032610/http://www.investinmacedonia.com/page.aspx?language=&page=O25QDpgVFLj9Bfg/vkoGyw==|archive-date=14 September 2008}}</ref> while the highest tectonic lakes of the [[Balkan Peninsula]], the [[Lake Prespa|Large]] and [[Small Prespa Lake|Small Lake of Prespa]], are well hidden among high mountains in the southeast.

Rivers originate in the east of Albania and loop towards the west into the sea. They are encompassed by the [[drainage basin]]s of the Adriatic, [[Aegean Sea|Aegean]] and [[Black Sea]].<ref>{{cite web |publisher=[[United Nations Economic Commission for Europe]] |title=Drainage Basin of the Mediterranean Sea |url=https://www.unece.org/fileadmin/DAM/env/water/blanks/assessment/mediterranean.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140821133114/http://www.unece.org/fileadmin/DAM/env/water/blanks/assessment/mediterranean.pdf |archive-date=2014-08-21 |url-status=live |pages=14–18 }}<br>- {{cite web |publisher=[[United Nations Economic Commission for Europe]] |title=Drainage Basin of the Black Sea |url=https://www.unece.org/fileadmin/DAM/env/water/blanks/assessment/black.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120418220631/http://www.unece.org/fileadmin/DAM/env/water/blanks/assessment/black.pdf |archive-date=2012-04-18 |url-status=live |pages=5 & 18 }}</ref> The longest river in the country, measured from its mouth to its source, is the [[Drin River|Drin]] that starts at the confluence of its two headwaters, the [[Black Drin|Black]] and [[White Drin]], though also notable is the [[Vjosë]], one of the last intact large river systems in Europe.

For a small country, Albania is characterized for its [[biological diversity]] and abundance of contrasting [[ecosystem]]s and [[habitat]]s, defined in an area of {{Convert|28,748|km2}}.<ref>{{cite web|title=Introduction|url=http://dspace.epoka.edu.al/bitstream/handle/1/372/649-1923-1-PB.pdf?sequence=1|website=dspace.epoka.edu.al|page=252|format=PDF|quote=Although a small country, Albania has rich physical geography features. The variation of geomorphology, climate, biological diversity, rivers and lakes create favorable conditions. These features affected on human and their activities.}}<br>- {{cite web|title=Report on National Situation of Biodiversity in Albania|url=http://macfungi.webs.com/Fungi-Albanici/Report%20on%20National%20Situation%20of%20Biodiversity%20in%20Albania.pdf|website=macfungi.webs.com|page=2|quote=Approximately 30% of all European floras occur in Albania.|access-date=19 July 2017|archive-date=6 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210306024211/https://macfungi.webs.com/Fungi-Albanici/Report%20on%20National%20Situation%20of%20Biodiversity%20in%20Albania.pdf|url-status=dead}}</ref> This great diversity derives from Albania's geographic location on the Mediterranean Sea, with typical climatic conditions, varied topography, as well as the wealth of [[Terrestrial ecosystem|terrestrial]] and [[Marine ecosystem|marine]] [[ecosystem]]s providing a variety of [[habitat]]s, each with its own typical [[flora]] and [[fauna]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Biodiversity Albania|url=https://www.climatechangepost.com/albania/biodiversity/|website=Climate Change Post|quote=Some of the 30% of the European plant species, and 42% of the European mammals can be found in the country. Albania's variety of wetlands, lagoons and large lakes also provide critical winter habitat for migratory birds (1).}}</ref>

There are 799 [[Protected areas of Albania|Albanian protected areas]] covering a surface of {{Convert|5,216.96|km2}}.<ref name="Albania, Europe">{{cite web|title=Albania, Europe|url=https://www.protectedplanet.net/country/ALB|website=Protected Planet}}</ref> These include two [[strict nature reserve]]s, 14 [[national park]]s, one [[marine park]], eight archaeological parks, 750 [[natural monument]]s, 22 habitat/species management areas, five [[protected landscape]]s, four [[protected landscape]]s, four managed resources areas, and four [[Ramsar Convention|ramsar wetland]]s.<ref>{{cite web|title=Protected Areas System in Albania|url=https://www.tap-ag.com/assets/07.reference_documents/english/esias/albania/AAL00-ERM-641-Y-TAE-1008_03-at23--ESIA_Albania_Annex_6.2.3_-_Protected_Areas_System_in_Albania.pdf|website=tap-ag.com|page=5|access-date=5 September 2017|archive-date=9 May 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160509193218/http://www.tap-ag.com/assets/07.reference_documents/english/esias/albania/AAL00-ERM-641-Y-TAE-1008_03-at23--ESIA_Albania_Annex_6.2.3_-_Protected_Areas_System_in_Albania.pdf|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="Archived copy">{{cite web |url=http://sea.unep-wcmc.org/wdbpa/country1.cfm?Country=ALB |title=WDPA - Designation Display |access-date=28 November 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110112212616/http://sea.unep-wcmc.org/wdbpa/country1.cfm?Country=ALB |archive-date=12 January 2011|publisher=United Nations Environment Programme }}</ref> The national parks cover a surface area of {{convert|210668.48|hectare|km2|}} or roughly 13.65% of the overall territory.<ref name="mjedisi.gov.al">{{Cite web |url=http://www.mjedisi.gov.al/files/userfiles/Biodiversiteti/ZM%26PK-Pershkrim.pdf |title=Përshkrimi i Rrjetit aktual të zonave të mbrojtura |access-date=26 December 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150529041409/http://www.mjedisi.gov.al/files/userfiles/Biodiversiteti/ZM%26PK-Pershkrim.pdf |archive-date=29 May 2015 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

== Borders ==
A total surface area of 28.748 square kilometres (11,100 sq mi), the country is located in the southeastern part of the [[Adriatic Sea|Adriatic]] and the northeastern part of the Ionian Sea, both located within the [[Mediterranean Sea]]. It has a length of borders of about {{convert|1094|km}}, {{convert|657|km}} of which are taken by terrestrial borders, {{convert|316|km}} of shore borders, {{convert|48|km}} [[List of rivers of Albania|river]] borders and {{convert|73|km}} of [[List of lakes of Albania|lake]] borders.<ref>{{cite web|title=The Influence of Physical Geographic Features in Albania on Human, Culture and Spatial|url=http://dspace.epoka.edu.al/bitstream/handle/1/372/649-1923-1-PB.pdf?sequence=1|website=dspace.epoka.edu.al|page=2|format=PDF}}</ref><ref name="Springer">{{cite book|title=Sustainable Development of Sea-Corridors and Coastal Waters: The TEN ECOPORT project in South East Europe|publisher=Springer|isbn=9783319113852|page=85|edition=Chrysostomos Stylios, Tania Floqi, Jordan Marinski, Leonardo Damiani|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=OynyBwAAQBAJ&q=length+of+the+ionian+sea+albania&pg=PA85|date=7 April 2015}}</ref> Inland water surface is {{convert|1350|km²}}, composed by [[natural lake]]s {{convert|325|km²}}, [[Lagoon|coastal lagoon]]s {{convert|130|km²}}, [[artificial lake]]s {{convert|174|km²}} and rivers {{convert|721|km}}.<ref>{{cite book|title=Assessing the Comparative Advantage of Wheat Produced in Albania|publisher=Cuvillier Verlag|isbn=9783867279994|page=7|edition=Luce Agraja|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=tAh-uPvUS9wC&q=albania+border+length&pg=PA7|year=2006}}</ref>

The countries of [[Montenegro]] ({{convert|173|km}}) and [[Kosovo]] ({{convert|114|km}}) border the country in the north and northeast, respectively.<ref name="Geografie - Albanien">{{cite web|title=Geografie – Albanien|url=https://www.uni-koblenz.de/~ist/ewis/algeo.html|publisher=University of Koblenz|language=de|quote=Angrenzende Länder – Griechenland 282 km}}</ref> A significant portion of this border connects high points and follows mountain ridges through the largely inaccessible [[Albanian Alps]]. The eastern border is shared with [[North Macedonia]], which stretches {{convert|151|km}}. This border is located at the [[tripoint]] between Albania, Kosovo, and North Macedonia passing through the [[Sharr Mountain|Sharr]] and [[Korab|Korab Mountain]]s and continues until it reaches Lake Ohrid and [[Lake Prespa]].<ref>{{cite book|title=The Green Belt of Europe: From Vision to Reality|publisher=IUCN|isbn=9782831709451|page=68|edition=Andrew Terry, Karin Ullrich, Uwe Riecken|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=1p5ka8DYAFwC&q=Albania%E2%80%93Kosovo%E2%80%93Macedonia+border+triangle&pg=PA68|year=2006}}</ref> The southern and southeastern border with [[Greece]] is {{convert|282|km}} long.<ref name="Geografie - Albanien"/> The border is located at the tripoint border between Albania, North Macedonia, and Greece running across the Large and [[Small Prespa Lake|Small Lake Prespa]] until it reaches the Ionian Sea at the [[Straits of Corfu|Strait of Corfu]].

== Physical geography ==
=== Topography ===
{{See also|Mountains of Albania}}
{{multiple image
| align             = right
| total_width       = 360
| image_style       = border:none;
| image1            = Maja_e_Thatë_(2406_m)_in_the_Albanian_Alps.jpg
| alt1              = Maja e Thatë
| caption1          = [[Maja e Thatë]] within the [[Albanian Alps]] in the north
| image2            = Mali_Bardhe.jpg
| alt2              = Mali i Bardhë
| caption2          = [[Korab-Koritnik Nature Park|Mali i Bardhë]] within the [[Korab|Korab Mountains]] in the east
}}

The most significant feature of Albania is possibly its [[relief]], with numerous successive [[mountain range]]s and its average altitude, more than 700 metres [[above sea level]].<ref name="General">{{cite web |title=The Influence of Physical Geographic Features in Albania on Human, Culture and Spatial |url=http://dspace.epoka.edu.al/bitstream/handle/1/372/649-1923-1-PB.pdf?sequence=1 |website=dspace.epoka.edu.al |pages=1–17 |format=PDF}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Geological Overview |url=http://www.akbn.gov.al/images/pdf/hidrokarburet/Geological-Overview.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170221110256/http://www.akbn.gov.al/images/pdf/hidrokarburet/Geological-Overview.pdf |archive-date=2017-02-21 |url-status=live |website=akbn.gov.al  }}</ref> Much of the mountains lie to the north, east and south of the [[Western Lowlands|western lowlands]] in the [[Northern Mountain Range (Albania)|northern]], [[Central Mountain Range (Albania)|eastern]] and [[Southern Mountain Range (Albania)|southern]] mountain ranges.

The [[Albanian Alps]] extend over 90 kilometres through the north of Albania, traversing an area of 2,000 square kilometres. These mountains represent an
extension of the [[Dinaric Alps]] and no wider than 40 kilometres. They are deeply fragmented and often inaccessible.<ref>{{cite web |title=Geomonuments who tell the story of Albanian Earth |url=http://www.balkangeophysoc.gr/menu/congresses/Trip%203%20Geomonuments.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180912022306/http://www.balkangeophysoc.gr/menu/congresses/Trip%203%20Geomonuments.pdf |archive-date=2018-09-12 |url-status=live |website=balkangeophysoc.gr |location=Tirana |page=16  |date=2013}}</ref> It holds the [[Maja Jezercë]], which is the highest point of the Dinarides and simultaneously the second highest point of Albania.<ref>{{cite web|title=Feasibility Study on Establishing a Transboundary Protected Area Prokletije / Bjeshkët e Nemuna Mountains |url=http://condesan.org/mtnforum/sites/default/files/publication/files/prokletije_25-10-2010.pdf|website=condesan.org|page=37|quote=The highest peaks of Prokletije / Bjeshkët e Nemuna mountains are Maja Jezercë/ Jezerski (2694 m) in Albania.|access-date=7 July 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170906040102/http://condesan.org/mtnforum/sites/default/files/publication/files/prokletije_25-10-2010.pdf|archive-date=6 September 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref>

The [[Korab|Korab Mountains]] dominate the east of the country and expand 40 kilometres along the eastern border of the country, where peaks can clearly reach 2,500 metres. The mountains offer the country's most prominent peak at [[Mount Korab]], which is fragmented by many deep structural depressions. Another distinguishing feature remains the evidence of the [[Last glacial period|last ice age]] in form of [[glacial lake]]s at relatively low altitudes.

One of the most remarkable features about the south of Albania is the presence of the [[Ceraunian Mountains]] that cut across the landscape for nearly 100 kilometres. Thousand meter high mountains fall vertically into the [[Mediterranean Sea]] constituting at least the first barrier to communication between the sea and the country's southern inland.

=== Hydrography ===
{{See also|Rivers of Albania|Lakes of Albania|Lagoons of Albania}}
{{multiple image
| align             = right
| total_width       = 360
| image_style       = border:none;
| image1            = Prespa_Lake_2015.JPG
| alt1              = Lake of Prespa
| caption1          = [[Prespa Lake|Lake of Prespa]] in the southeast
| image2            = Lake_Koman_Albania_2016.jpg
| alt2              = Lake of Koman
| caption2          = [[Lake Koman|Lake of Koman]] in the northeast
}}

The country has a dense network of [[river]]s and streams characterized by a high [[Volumetric flow rate|flow rate]].<ref>{{cite journal|title= The quality of Albanian natural waters and the human impact|year=2005|url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/8121855|doi=10.1016/j.envint.2004.06.008|page=137|quote=Albanian rivers are characterized by a high flow rate; the total annual mean flow is 1308 m<sup>3</sup>s<sup>−1</sup>,which corresponds to an annual water volume of 41,250 km<sup>3</sup>.|last1=Cullaj|first1=Alqiviadh|last2=Hasko|first2=Agim|last3=Miho|first3=Aleko|last4=Schanz|first4=Ferdinand|last5=Brandl|first5=Helmut|last6=Bachofen|first6=Reinhard|journal=Environment International|volume=31|issue=1|pmid=15607787}}</ref> They belong to the [[drainage basin]]s of the [[Adriatic Sea|Adriatic]], [[Aegean Sea|Aegean]] and [[Black Sea]]. They mostly rise in the mountainous eastern half of the country and have their [[River mouth|mouth]]s in the west along the coasts.<ref>{{cite web |author1=Hasan Özdemır |title=Geomorphometric Analysis of Albania River Basins |url=http://dspace.epoka.edu.al/bitstream/handle/1/353/616-1800-1-PB.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y |website=dspace.epoka.edu.al |page=3 |format=PDF}}</ref> They are sustained from snowmelt of the snow-capped mountains or from the abundant precipitation that falls at loftier elevations.

Eight notable rivers, along with their numerous [[tributaries]], make up the river system of the country. The longest river is the [[Drin River|Drin]], which flows for {{convert|285|km}} within the country. Its [[Catchment area (hydrology)|catchment area]] is one of the most [[Biodiversity|biodiverse]] places in Europe and encompasses the lakes of [[Lake of Shkodër|Shkodër]], [[Lake of Ohrid|Ohrid]] and [[Prespa Lake|Prespa]].<ref>{{cite web|title=The natural wealth and legacy of the Drin River Basin: inspiring our collective actions|url=http://act4drin.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/Act4Drin_Brochure_18_9_2015_single_pages.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170909190438/http://act4drin.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/Act4Drin_Brochure_18_9_2015_single_pages.pdf |archive-date=2017-09-09 |url-status=live|website=act4drin.net|page=7}}<br>- {{cite web|title=Drin River Basin The blue heart of the Balkans|url=http://mio-ecsde.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/drin-river-basin_brochure_02.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170909190528/http://mio-ecsde.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/drin-river-basin_brochure_02.pdf |archive-date=2017-09-09 |url-status=live|website=mio-ecsde.org|page=4}}</ref> Of particular concern represent the river of [[Vjosa]] as it is considered as the last remaining wild river in Europe.<ref>{{cite web|author1=Fred Pearce|title=Scientists demand halt to damming of Europe's last wild river|url=https://www.newscientist.com/article/2106908-scientists-demand-halt-to-damming-of-europes-last-wild-river/|website=newscientist.com|access-date=23 September 2016}}</ref> The country's other rivers are [[Fan (river)|Fan]], [[Ishëm (river)|Ishëm]], [[Erzen River|Erzen]], [[Mat (river)|Mat]], [[Seman (river)|Seman]] and [[Shkumbin]].

With more than 250 [[lake]]s, the country is home to two of the largest lakes in [[List of largest lakes of Europe|Southern Europe]] and one of the oldest in the World. The lakes of the country are predominantly of [[Karst#Hydrology|karstic]] or [[Glacial lake|glacial]] origin.<ref>{{cite journal|title=The quality of Albanian natural waters and the human impact|year=2005|url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/8121855|doi=10.1016/j.envint.2004.06.008|page=134|last1=Cullaj|first1=Alqiviadh|last2=Hasko|first2=Agim|last3=Miho|first3=Aleko|last4=Schanz|first4=Ferdinand|last5=Brandl|first5=Helmut|last6=Bachofen|first6=Reinhard|journal=Environment International|volume=31|issue=1|pmid=15607787}}</ref> The largest lake in Southern Europe is the [[Lake of Shkodër]] geographically located in the north, shared with Montenegro.<ref>{{cite web |author1=Zamir Dedej |title=International cooperation for shared lakes in southeastern Europe – the Prespa, Ohrid and Skadar regions |url=https://www.ramsar.org/sites/default/files/documents/library/mtg_reg_europe2004_docs1d5.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180913150457/https://www.ramsar.org/sites/default/files/documents/library/mtg_reg_europe2004_docs1d5.pdf |archive-date=2018-09-13 |url-status=live |website=ramsar.org }}<br>- {{cite web |title=Albania and Montenegro: Creating an Integrated Water Resources Plan for the Buna / Bojana Watershed |url=https://www.gwp.org/globalassets/global/toolbox/case-studies/europe/buna_bojana_watershed_final.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180913150450/https://www.gwp.org/globalassets/global/toolbox/case-studies/europe/buna_bojana_watershed_final.pdf |archive-date=2018-09-13 |url-status=live |website=gwp.org |page=5 }}</ref> One of the ancientest lakes in the world is the [[Lake of Ohrid]] located in the southeast, shared with North Macedonia.<ref>{{cite web|title=Natural and Cultural Heritage of the Ohrid region|url=https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/99|publisher=UNESCO}}</ref><ref name="Albanian Section">{{cite web |others=[[IUCN]] and [[Ministry of Tourism and Environment (Albania)|Ministria e Mjedisit e Shqipërisë]]|title=Towards Strengthened Governance of the Shared Transboundary Natural and Cultural Heritage of the Lake Ohrid Region – Baseline Assessment of the Lake Ohrid region – Albania |url=https://whc.unesco.org/document/139987 |publisher=UNESCO |pages=1–126 |format=PDF |date=January 2016}}</ref> The highest positioned lakes in Southern Europe are the [[Prespa Lake|Large]] and [[Small Prespa Lake|Small Lake of Prespa]] in the southeast, shared with North Macedonia and Greece.

The country is also home to many [[lagoon]]s of varied shape, size and structure.<ref>{{cite web |title=Conservation Status of Albanian Coastal Wetlands and their Colonial Waterbird Populations (Pelecaniformes and Ciconiiformes) |url=https://vliz.be/imisdocs/publications/235127.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180613134238/http://www.vliz.be/imisdocs/publications/235127.pdf |archive-date=2018-06-13 |url-status=live |website=vliz.be |pages=1–10 }}</ref> They are primarily positioned along the coast in the west of the country and also in the southeast. They contribute to the overall productivity of the coastal waters by supporting a variety of habitats and ecosystems. The largest lagoon in the country is the [[Lagoon of Karavasta]] located between the mouth of Shkumbin and Seman. Another significant lagoons are the lagoons of [[Patoku lagoon|Patoku]], [[Narta Lagoon|Narta]], [[Kunë-Vain-Tale Nature Park|Kunë-Vain]] and [[Butrint lagoon|Butrint]].<ref>{{cite journal|title=The quality of Albanian natural waters and the human impact|year=2005|url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/8121855|doi=10.1016/j.envint.2004.06.008|page=138|quote=Karavasta lagoon represents the largest lagoon inAlbania and is among the biggest of the Adriatic basin; – Lezha lagoons extend on both sides of the Drini delta, Ceka lagoon in the southern part of river delta, Merxhanilagoon and Kenalla pond on its northern side; – Narta lagoon (Vlora) is situated at the southern Adriaticcoast; it is 42 km2 in size and has a depth of 0.3 to 1.0 m.: –  Butrinti lagoon is 16.3 km2 in size with a mean depth of14 m and a maximal depth of 21 m. It is situated in the southern part at the Ionian Sea.|last1=Cullaj|first1=Alqiviadh|last2=Hasko|first2=Agim|last3=Miho|first3=Aleko|last4=Schanz|first4=Ferdinand|last5=Brandl|first5=Helmut|last6=Bachofen|first6=Reinhard|journal=Environment International|volume=31|issue=1|pmid=15607787}}</ref>

== Biodiversity ==
{{Main|Biodiversity of Albania|Protected areas of Albania}}
{{multiple image
| align             = right
| total_width       = 360
| image_style       = border:none;
| image1            = Golden_eagle_(13434882845).jpg
| alt1              = Golden Eagle
| caption1          = The [[golden eagle]] is the [[National symbols of Albania|national symbol]] of Albania.
| image2            = Eurasian_lynx_(Lynx_lynx).jpeg
| alt2              = Balkan Lynx
| caption2          = The [[Balkan lynx]] lives only in Albania and Macedonia.
| direction         = 
}}

The proximity to the [[Mediterranean Sea]] and the convergence of exceptional [[climatic]], [[geological]] and [[hydrological]] conditions, have contributed for the development of a diverse [[biodiversity]], making Albania one of the [[biodiversity hotspot]]s of [[Europe]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Mediterranean Basin Biodiversity Hotspot |url=https://www.cepf.net/sites/default/files/mediterranean-basin-2017-ecosystem-profile-english_0.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180613234351/https://www.cepf.net/sites/default/files/mediterranean-basin-2017-ecosystem-profile-english_0.pdf |archive-date=2018-06-13 |url-status=live |website=cepf.net |pages=1–339  |date=July 2017}}</ref>

In terms of [[phytogeography]], the land area of Albania extends within the [[Boreal Kingdom]], specifically within the [[Illyria]]n province of the [[Circumboreal Region]]. Its territory can be subdivided into four terrestrial [[ecoregion]]s of the [[Palearctic realm]] – the [[Illyrian deciduous forests|Illyrian]], [[Balkan mixed forests|Balkan]], [[Pindus Mountains mixed forests|Pindus]] and [[Dinaric Mountains mixed forests|Dinaric]] forests.<ref>{{cite web|author1=NaturAL|title=Albania towards Natura 2000|url=http://www.natura.al/page.php?lang=en&section=albaniatowardsn2000|website=Natura|location=Tirana|page=1|access-date=13 September 2018|archive-date=11 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170311223347/http://www.natura.al/page.php?lang=en&section=albaniatowardsn2000|url-status=dead}}<br>- {{cite web|title=The National Parks Of Albania The fifteen national parks in Albania encompass an area of 210,668.48 hectares which accounts for about 3.65% of the overall territory of the country.|url=http://www.worldatlas.com/articles/the-national-parks-of-albania-protecting-the-natural-treasures-of-the-country.html|website=World Atlas|quote=The territory of Albania can be divided into four ecoregions: Dinaric Alpine (mixed forests in the far north). Balcanic (mixed forest in the north-east). Pindus mountain (mixed forests covering the central and southeast mountains). Illyrian deciduous (forest covering the rest of the country).}}</ref>

In Albania [[forest cover]] is around 29.% of the total land area, equivalent to 788,900 hectares (ha) of forest in 2020, up from 788,800 hectares (ha) in 1990. Of the naturally regenerating forest 11% was reported to be [[primary forest]] (consisting of native tree species with no clearly visible indications of human activity) and around 0% of the forest area was found within protected areas. For the year 2015, 97% of the forest area was reported to be under [[State ownership|public ownership]], 3% [[Private property|private ownership]] and 0% with ownership listed as other or unknown. <ref>{{Cite book |url=https://openknowledge.fao.org/server/api/core/bitstreams/a6e225da-4a31-4e06-818d-ca3aeadfd635/content |title=Terms and Definitions FRA 2025 Forest Resources Assessment, Working Paper 194 |publisher=Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations |year=2023}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Global Forest Resources Assessment 2020, Albania |url=https://fra-data.fao.org/assessments/fra/2020/ALB/home/overview |website=Food Agriculture Organization of the United Nations}}</ref>

The northern edge of the country has an affinity for those of [[Continental Europe]], while those of the southern edge refer to the affinity with that of the [[Mediterranean Basin]].<ref>{{cite web |title=lbania Biodiversity Assessment Under the Biodiversity and Forestry Indefinite Quantity Contract Contract No. LAG-I-00-99-00013-00, Task Order No. 811 |url=https://rmportal.net/library/content/118_albania/at_download/file |website=rmportal.net |pages=16–23  |format=PDF |date=November 2003}}</ref> They are substantial because they provide shelter for a vast array of [[Rare species|rare]] and [[endangered species]] of [[animal]]s, among others the [[brown bear]], [[Balkan lynx]], [[grey wolf]], [[golden jackal]], [[Egyptian vulture]] and [[golden eagle]]. Albania had a 2018 [[Forest Landscape Integrity Index]] mean score of 6.77/10, ranking it 64th globally out of 172 countries.<ref name="FLII-Supplementary">{{cite journal|last1=Grantham|first1=H. S.|last2=Duncan|first2=A.|last3=Evans|first3=T. D.|last4=Jones|first4=K. R.|last5=Beyer|first5=H. L.|last6=Schuster|first6=R.|last7=Walston|first7=J.|last8=Ray|first8=J. C.|last9=Robinson|first9=J. G.|last10=Callow|first10=M.|last11=Clements|first11=T.|last12=Costa|first12=H. M.|last13=DeGemmis|first13=A.|last14=Elsen|first14=P. R.|last15=Ervin|first15=J.|last16=Franco|first16=P.|last17=Goldman|first17=E.|last18=Goetz|first18=S.|last19=Hansen|first19=A.|last20=Hofsvang|first20=E.|last21=Jantz|first21=P.|last22=Jupiter|first22=S.|last23=Kang|first23=A.|last24=Langhammer|first24=P.|last25=Laurance|first25=W. F.|last26=Lieberman|first26=S.|last27=Linkie|first27=M.|last28=Malhi|first28=Y.|last29=Maxwell|first29=S.|last30=Mendez|first30=M.|last31=Mittermeier|first31=R.|last32=Murray|first32=N. J.|last33=Possingham|first33=H.|last34=Radachowsky|first34=J.|last35=Saatchi|first35=S.|last36=Samper|first36=C.|last37=Silverman|first37=J.|last38=Shapiro|first38=A.|last39=Strassburg|first39=B.|last40=Stevens|first40=T.|last41=Stokes|first41=E.|last42=Taylor|first42=R.|last43=Tear|first43=T.|last44=Tizard|first44=R.|last45=Venter|first45=O.|last46=Visconti|first46=P.|last47=Wang|first47=S.|last48=Watson|first48=J. E. M.|title=Anthropogenic modification of forests means only 40% of remaining forests have high ecosystem integrity - Supplementary Material|journal=Nature Communications|volume=11|issue=1|year=2020|page=5978|issn=2041-1723|doi=10.1038/s41467-020-19493-3|pmid=33293507|pmc=7723057}}</ref>

The [[Mediterranean monk seal]], [[short-beaked common dolphin]] and [[common bottlenose dolphin]] can frequently be seen in the coastal waters of the country. Outstanding is the presence of the [[Dalmatian pelican]], the rarest [[pelican]] in the world. The biodiversity of Albania is conserved in its [[Protected areas of Albania|protected area]]s, which provide protection to hundreds of [[threatened]] and [[endangered species]].<ref name="Albania, Europe"/><ref>{{cite web|title=Protected Areas System in Albania|url=https://www.tap-ag.com/assets/07.reference_documents/english/esias/albania/AAL00-ERM-641-Y-TAE-1008_03-at23--ESIA_Albania_Annex_6.2.3_-_Protected_Areas_System_in_Albania.pdf|website=tap-ag.com|page=5|access-date=5 September 2017|archive-date=9 May 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160509193218/http://www.tap-ag.com/assets/07.reference_documents/english/esias/albania/AAL00-ERM-641-Y-TAE-1008_03-at23--ESIA_Albania_Annex_6.2.3_-_Protected_Areas_System_in_Albania.pdf|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="Archived copy"/><ref name="mjedisi.gov.al"/>

=== Protected areas ===
{{main|Protected areas of Albania}}
[[File:Галичица, поглед на две езера, 2011.jpg|350px|thumb|right|The [[Ohrid-Prespa Transboundary Biosphere Reserve|Ohrid-Prespa Biosphere Reserve]] in southeastern Albania and southwestern [[North Macedonia]]]]

Numerous parts of Albania are [[Protected areas of Albania|protected]] in accordance with a number of national and international designations due to their [[natural]], [[historical]] or [[cultural]] value.<ref>{{cite web |author1=Spase Shumka |title=Albania's Biodiversity and Protected Areas An Executive Summary |url=http://www.al.undp.org/content/dam/albania/docs/short_report_design.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181008214412/http://www.al.undp.org/content/dam/albania/docs/short_report_design.pdf |archive-date=2018-10-08 |url-status=live |website=al.undp.org |pages=1–12 }}</ref> Protected areas belong to the most principal instruments of [[conservation (ethic)|conservation]] which in turn contributes effectively to the maintenance of [[species]], [[habitat]]s and [[ecosystem]]s.

The country has currently fifteen designated [[national park]]s, whereby one is specified as a [[marine park]]. Ranging from the [[Adriatic Sea]] and the [[Ionian Sea]] to the [[Albanian Alps]] and the [[Ceraunian Mountains]], they possess outstanding landscapes constituting habitats to thousands of [[plant]] and [[animal]] species. [[Butrint National Park|Butrint]], [[Divjakë-Karavasta National Park|Divjakë-Karavasta]], [[Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park|Karaburun-Sazan]], [[Llogara National Park|Llogara]], [[Prespa National Park (Albania)|Prespa]], [[Shebenik-Jabllanicë National Park|Shebenik-Jabllanicë]], [[Theth National Park|Theth]] and [[Valbonë Valley National Park|Valbonë]] are among the most spectacular national parks of the country.

== Climate ==
{{Main|Climate of Albania}}

[[File:Valbona_nga_Kukaj.jpg|thumb|right|350px|The [[Valbonë Valley National Park|Valley of Valbonë]] within the [[Albanian Alps]] during autumn]]

Albania has a combination of a [[mediterranean climate]] and a [[continental climate]], with four distinct [[season]]s.<ref name="climate">{{cite web |publisher=United Nations Economic Commission for Europe |title=Environmental Performance Reviews Albania |url=http://www.unece.org/fileadmin/DAM/env/epr/epr_studies/AlbaniaII.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140227090205/http://www.unece.org/fileadmin/DAM/env/epr/epr_studies/AlbaniaII.pdf |archive-date=2014-02-27 |url-status=live |page=30 }}</ref> The climatic conditions are highly variable and modified locally by [[altitude]] and [[latitude]].<ref name="climate"/> Its [[climate]] is strongly influenced by the [[Mediterranean Sea]] in the west, and the mountains that raise in every corner around the country.

Its diverse regions have a remarkable range of [[microclimate]]s, with the weather system on the coasts contrasting with that prevailing in the interior. Moreover, the weather varies from the north and towards the south and the west to the east. Albania occupies the climate ranges from [[temperate climate]] on the coasts to [[continental climate]] in the interior.<ref>{{cite book|title=Inland Fisheries of Europe|year=1993|publisher=Food & Agriculture Org.|isbn=9789251033586|page=3|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=IkdbD9y40D4C&q=albania+the+wettest+area+in+europe&pg=PA3}}</ref> The warmest areas of the country are at the coasts, which are characterized by a Mediterranean climate (Csa, Csb and Cfa) as defined by the [[Köppen climate classification]]. The highlands experiences an Oceanic climate. Winters in Albania are characteristically mild and wet while summers are warm and dry. The northern areas of country such as the [[Albanian Alps]] experiences a [[subarctic climate]] with frequently very cold winters, and short, mild summers.

The [[Western Lowlands|lowlands]] of Albania have mild winters, averaging about {{convert|7|°C|°F}}. The summer temperatures average {{convert|32|°C|°F}}, however, humidity is low. In the southern lowlands, specifically the areas on the Ionian sea, temperatures average about {{convert|5|°C|°F}} in the winter and {{convert|30|°C|°F}} during the summer.

== Physiographic regions ==
The country is divided into four [[physiographic]] regions, the [[Northern Mountain Range (Albania)|Northern Mountain Range]], [[Central Mountain Range (Albania)|Central Mountain Range]], [[Southern Mountain Range (Albania)|Southern Mountain Range]] and [[Western Lowlands]] with two subdivisions corresponding roughly to the [[Albanian Adriatic Sea Coast|Albanian Adriatic]] and [[Albanian Ionian Sea Coast|Ionian Sea Coast]].<ref>{{cite journal|journal=Universiteti Shtetëror i Tiranës|title=Buletini i i Universitetit Shteteror te Tiranes|year=1964|page=110|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=d0UoAQAAIAAJ}}</ref>

=== Western Lowlands ===
{{main|Western Lowlands}}

[[File:Myzeqe.jpg|thumb|right|The [[Myzeqe]] plain, seen from the ancient city of [[Apollonia (Illyria)|Apollonia]]]]

Except for its sea coast in the west, the [[Western Lowlands|western lowlands]] are ringed by a great arc-shaped line of mountains spreading in the north, east and south. The predominantly flat and regular landscape is [[Geomorphology|morphologically]] characterized by the sea and rivers, in terms of [[topography]] and [[soil]], and also in its [[climate]] and [[biodiversity]]. The region experiences mild and short winters, with low rainfalls, and long hot and dry summers.{{citation needed|date=January 2021}} It is mostly dominated by the extensive [[Myzeqe]] plain, a large [[alluvial plain]] traversed by three main rivers, the [[Shkumbin]], [[Seman (river)|Seman]] and [[Vjosë]].<ref>{{cite book |title=Remote Sensing for Environmental Data in Albania: A Strategy for Integrated Management |date=6 December 2012 |publisher=Springer Science & Business Media, 2012 |isbn=9789401143578 |edition=Manfred F. Buchroithner |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=_7avBQAAQBAJ&q=coastal+plain+albania&pg=PT214 }}<br>- {{cite book |author1=Tom Streissguth |title=Albania in Pictures |date=July 2010 |publisher=Twenty-First Century Books, 2010 |isbn=9780761363781 |page=9 }}</ref>

The [[Albanian Adriatic Sea Coast]] stretches from the mouth of the river [[Buna (Adriatic Sea)|Buna]] near the [[Lake of Shkodër]] in the north, across the [[Gulf of Drin]], to the [[Bay of Vlorë]] in the south.<ref name="Springer"/> The two [[List of cities in Albania|largest]] coastal cities [[Durrës]] and [[Vlorë]] are located in the northern and the southern part of the region, respectively. The total length of the [[coast]]line is approximately {{convert|274|km}}, mostly of which are taken up by [[Sand beach|sandy beach]]es, [[wetland]]s and [[Alluvial plain|alluvial]] [[Deposition (geology)|deposit]]s, occurred by [[quaternary]] sediments of the main rivers of the country.

[[File:Ksamill-1.jpg|thumb|right|The waters of [[Ksamil Islands|Ksamil]] in the extreme south of the [[Albanian Ionian Sea Coast]]]]

The coastline is lined with different [[habitat]]s and [[ecosystem]]s, providing optimal conditions for a rich biodiversity. Of particular importance is the presence of numerous lagoons and [[pond]]s, representing one of the wealthiest scenery of the country, in terms of [[biology]]. Likely, the lagoons of [[Karavasta Lagoon|Karavasta]] and [[Narta Lagoon|Narta]], in the immediate proximity to the sea, are among the most important ones in the [[Mediterranean Sea]].

While the Adriatic coast is relatively low, the Ionian coast is, with few exceptions, rugged and mountainous. The [[Albanian Ionian Sea Coast]] stretches from the [[Karaburun Peninsula (Albania)|Peninsula of Karaburun]] in the north, through the [[Albanian Riviera]], to the [[Straits of Corfu]] in the south.<ref name="Springer"/> The [[List of cities in Albania|largest]] coastal city [[Sarandë]] is located in the southern part of the region, while smaller villages include [[Borsh]], [[Dhermi]], [[Himara]], [[Qeparo]], [[Piqeras]], and [[Lukovë]].<ref name="Br">{{cite book|last=Gloyer|first=Gillian |title=The Bradt Travel Guide Albania|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=K_trOWbGcbkC&q=Albanian+Riviera&pg=PA26|year=2008|publisher=Bradt Publications UK|isbn=978-1-84162-246-0|page=199}}</ref> The total length of the [[coast]]line is approximately {{convert|172|km}}.

The most characteristic features of the coastline are the [[Ceraunian Mountains]], which extend nearly {{convert|100|km}} along the [[Albanian Riviera]] roughly in a southeast–northwest direction. The region is particular [[Soil fertility|fertile]] and known for its [[citrus]] fruits and [[viticulture]], that has a long and special tradition in the region. The coastline is abundant in [[Dolomite (mineral)|dolomite]] from the [[triassic]] period, the [[carbonate rock]]s follows with [[limestone]] from the [[jurassic]] period and [[bituminous]] [[schist]]s, [[cretaceous]] [[porcelain]] and [[phosphate]] limestone.<ref name="geological view">{{cite web |title=Some Considerations on Seawater-Freshwater Relationship in Albanian Coastal Area |url=http://www.igme.es/igme/publica/tiac-02/ALBANIA-I.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180702011137/http://www.igme.es/igme/publica/tiac-02/ALBANIA-I.pdf |archive-date=2018-07-02 |url-status=live |website=igme.es |location=Tirana |pages=1–12 }}</ref><ref name="Springer"/> 
{{Clear}}

=== Northern Mountain Range ===
{{main|Northern Mountain Range, Albania}}

[[File:Theth_and_Theth_National_Park,_Albania_2017.jpg|thumb|right|The valley of [[Shala (river)|Shala]], seen from the village of [[Theth]]]]

The [[Northern Mountain Range, Albania|northern mountain range]] is the most mountainous region in the country and its physical geography and shape is distinguished by the convergence of two distinct geological regions, the [[Albanian Alps]] and Mirdita Highlands.<ref>{{cite web |title=Geophysical Outlook On Structure Of The Albanides |url=http://itc.upt.al/~nfra/papers/geosciences/Albanides.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180916202538/http://itc.upt.al/~nfra/papers/geosciences/Albanides.pdf |archive-date=2018-09-16 |url-status=live |website=itc.upt.al |location=Tirana |pages=1–46 }}<br>- {{cite web|title=Albanian Alps Geotopes|url=http://lib.icimod.org/record/14264/files/5517.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170923051144/http://lib.icimod.org/record/14264/files/5517.pdf |archive-date=2017-09-23 |url-status=live|website=lib.icimod.org|page=1|quote=The Alps have a width of 60 km and a length of 64 km and occupy an area of about 2020 km2 .}}</ref> A dominant feature of the region's landscape is the presence of several [[u-shaped valley]]s, such as the [[Valbonë Valley National Park|Valley of Valbonë]], formed by the process of [[glaciation]].

The Albanian Alps are the southernmost extension of the [[Dinaric Alps]] and simultaneously the highest and most imposing mountains of the country.  Despite the fact that the [[Quaternary glaciation|ice ages]] had relatively little geological influence on the alps, the southernmost glaciers of [[Europe]] were recently discovered on the alps.<ref>{{cite web|title=Feasibility Study on Establishing A Transboundary Protected Area Prokletije / Bjeshkët E Nemuna Mountains|url=http://condesan.org/mtnforum/sites/default/files/publication/files/prokletije_25-10-2010.pdf|website=condesan.org|page=4|quote=The number of glacial ponds in this area is rare for the European mainland and can only be compared to the Alps.|access-date=7 July 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170906040102/http://condesan.org/mtnforum/sites/default/files/publication/files/prokletije_25-10-2010.pdf|archive-date=6 September 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref>

The Albanian Alps are home to many important rivers of [[Western Balkans]]. The main [[drainage basin]]s of the Alps are those of the [[Drin (river)|Drin]] and [[Danube river|Danube]] Rivers.<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Winterberg |first=Sascha |last2=Willett |first2=Sean D. |date=March 2019 |title=Greater Alpine river network evolution, interpretations based on novel drainage analysis |url=https://sjg.springeropen.com/articles/10.1007/s00015-018-0332-5 |journal=[[Swiss Journal of Geosciences]] |language=en |volume=112 |issue=1 |pages=3–22 |doi=10.1007/s00015-018-0332-5 |issn=1661-8734 |pmc=7081830 |pmid=32214983}}</ref> Rivers on the Alps fall roughly into two categories, those that flow into the [[Lim (river)|Lim]] and those that enter the [[White Drin]] and meet the [[Black Drin]] downstream at the Drin confluence. However, Drin dominates, draining most of the Alps with its tributaries and when measured from the source of the White Drin to the mouth of the Drin near [[Lezhë]]. But not all of the Drin flows near or parallel to the Alps. One Drin tributary is the [[Valbonë (river)|Valbona]] River, which drains into the [[Adriatic Sea]], and its eastern tributary the [[Gashi River]]. 
{{Clear}}

=== Central Mountain Range ===
{{main|Central Mountain Range, Albania}}
[[File:Mali_Bardhe.jpg|thumb|right|A typical landscape within the [[Korab-Koritnik Nature Park|Mali i Bardhë]]]]

The terrain of the [[Central Mountain Range, Albania|central mountain range]] is predominantly mountainous and extremely fragmented carved into its present shape by the [[glacier]]s of the last [[Last Glacial Maximum|ice age]]. The region is dominated by three [[mountain range]]s, each running from north-northeast to south-southwest, roughly parallel to the eastern border of Albania.

The [[Korab|Korab Mountains]] are certainly the most striking feature of the physical geography of the region. They hold the highest mountain of the country, the [[Mount Korab]].<ref>{{cite web|title=The King of the Mountains|url=http://www.dmwcorg.tk/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/The_King_of_the_Mountains.pdf|website=dmwcorg.tk|page=24|quote=At 2764 meters Korab peak is one of only two summits in Europe which are the highest point for more than one country.|access-date=8 July 2017|archive-date=2 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190402204601/http://www.dmwcorg.tk/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/The_King_of_the_Mountains.pdf|url-status=dead}}<br>- {{cite web|title=The King of the Mountains|url=http://www.dmwcorg.tk/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/The_King_of_the_Mountains.pdf|website=dmwcorg.tk|page=24|quote=Korab is a very rugged mountain massif that consists mainly of shale and limestone of the Palaeozoic era with bloc structures.|access-date=8 July 2017|archive-date=2 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190402204601/http://www.dmwcorg.tk/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/The_King_of_the_Mountains.pdf|url-status=dead}}</ref> The mountains extends over 40 kilometres and covers an area of 560 square kilometres.<ref>{{cite web |title=Sharr/Šar Planina – Korab – Dešat/Deshat |url=http://www.envsec.org/publications/Feasibility%20study%20on%20establishing%20a%20transboundary%20protected%20area.%20Sharr-Sar%20Planina-Korab-Desat-Deshat.pdf |website=envsec.org |pages=1–132 |access-date=7 September 2017 |archive-date=7 September 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170907220440/http://www.envsec.org/publications/Feasibility%20study%20on%20establishing%20a%20transboundary%20protected%20area.%20Sharr-Sar%20Planina-Korab-Desat-Deshat.pdf |url-status=dead }}</ref> Between the valleys of [[Shkumbin]] and [[Devoll (river)|Devoll]] rise the mountains that constitute to the [[Valamara|Valamara Mountains]], while farther north stretches the connected mountain massifs of [[Shebenik]] and [[Jablanica (mountain range)|Jabllanicë]].<ref name="geology">{{cite journal |author1=Slavčo Hristovski, Borislav Guéorguiev, Trajče Mitev, Gjorge Ivanov, Martina Trajkovska |title=Ground beetles (Carabidae, Coleoptera) of Jablanica Mt.(North Macedonia) and Shebenik Mt. (Albania) |url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/216512490 |journal=Билт. Истраж. друш. студ. биол. год. |volume=4 |pages=49–65 |year=2010}}</ref>

The vast majority of the region's [[natural lake]]s are located in the southern half of the region and most of them are the product of a long contiguous history. The [[Lake of Ohrid]] lie adjacent to the border shared with [[North Macedonia]]. It is one of the oldest continuously existing lakes in the world with a unique biodiversity. Further south, well hidden among high mountains, extend the [[Prespa Lake|Lake of Prespa]] that is linked by a small channel with a sluice that separates the two lakes.

{{wide image|Prespa_and_Prespa_National_Park_Albania_2017.jpg|800px|The [[Prespa Lake|Lake of Prespa]] part of the [[Prespa National Park (Albania)|Prespa National Park]] and [[Ohrid-Prespa Transboundary Biosphere Reserve]] positioned in the southeastern edge of Albania.<ref>{{cite web |publisher=[[UNESCO]] |title=Ohrid-Prespa- Biosphere Reserve |url=http://www.unesco.org/new/en/natural-sciences/environment/ecological-sciences/biosphere-reserves/europe-north-america/albaniathe-former-yugoslav-republic-of-macedonia/ohrid-prespa/ }}</ref>|center}}

=== Southern Mountain Range ===
{{main|Southern Mountain Range, Albania}}
[[File:Albanian_Riviera_from_Llogara_Pass_2015-09-22.jpg|thumb|right|A view of the [[Albanian Riviera]], from the [[Llogara National Park]]]]
The [[Ceraunian Mountains]], a coastal [[mountain range]] in southwestern Albania, stretches about {{convert|100|km}} besides the Ionian Sea from [[Sarandë]] in south-east-northwest direction along the [[Albanian Riviera]] to [[Orikum]]. The relief is varied, with many mountain passes, canyons, gorges, hills and other landforms. The mountains are characterized by housing [[Pinus nigra|Black pine]]s, [[Bulgarian fir]]s, [[Bosnian pine]]s and [[Fraxinus|Ash tree]]s. The mountain chain is home to many large [[mammal]]s, including [[brown bear]]s, [[grey wolves]], [[lynx]], [[golden eagle]]s and others. The highest point on the chain is [[Maja e Çikës]], that rises to an elevation of {{convert|2045|m}} above the Adriatic. From the peak, there is a view of the Albanian Riviera, the northern Ionian Islands as well as the Italian coast of [[Apulia]] and [[Otranto]]. The section has wide and long beaches, with a number of bays and headlands.

Stretching until the [[Llogara Pass]] at {{convert|1027|m}}, the mountain chain gets separated into the Ceraunians in the west and the Akroceraunians (or ''Reza e Kanalit'') in the east within the Karaburun Peninsula.<ref name="peaks">{{cite web|title=Management Plan Llogora-Rreza e Kanalit-Dukat -Orikum-TragjasRadhime-Karaburun Complex Site|url=http://vinc.s.free.fr/IMG/karaburuni_llogara_MPenglish.pdf|website=vinc.s.free.fr|page=23|language=sq}}</ref> The villages of [[Palasë]], [[Dhërmi]], [[Vuno]], [[Himarë (town)|Himarë]], [[Qeparo]], [[Borsh]], [[Pilur]], [[Kudhës]] and [[Iljas|Ilias]] are located on the Ceraunian range. The Llogara National Park covers an area of {{convert|10100|m²}}.
[[File:Grama_Bay._Albania_2017-08_14.jpg|thumb|right|A scenic view of [[Bays of Albania|Gjiri i Gramës]]]]

The [[Karaburun Peninsula, Albania|Karaburun Peninsula]] is situated at the eastern side of [[Strait of Otranto]], where the Adriatic Sea meets the Ionian Sea. Its area is {{convert|62|km²}}, having a length of {{convert|16|km}}, and a width of only {{convert|5|km}}.<ref>{{cite web|title=Llogora-Rreza e Kanalit-Dukat -Orikum-TragjasRadhime-Karaburun Complex Site|url=http://vinc.s.free.fr/IMG/karaburuni_llogara_MPenglish.pdf|website=vinc.s.free.fr|page=24|quote=The Karaburun Peninsula covers a surface of 62 km2;   It is 16 km long and 3–5 km wide}}</ref> The Mesokanali is the narrow channel, that separates the peninsula from the [[Sazan Island]]. [[Geologically]], it is made up of [[Carbonic acid|carbonic]] [[limestone]], dating back to the [[Mesozoic]] period, while in the northwestern it is composed of [[terrigenous sediment]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Llogora-Rreza e Kanalit-Dukat -Orikum-TragjasRadhime-Karaburun Complex Site|url=http://vinc.s.free.fr/IMG/karaburuni_llogara_MPenglish.pdf|website=vinc.s.free.fr|page=24|quote=From the geological point of view it is made up of carbonic limestone of Kretac era, while in the northwestern part of it, Bay of Shën Jani, it is composed of terigenic deposits.}}</ref> Furthermore, these formations have been continuously under the effect of [[Karst]] and are exploited as marble. The relief of the peninsula comprises a number of hills with an average altitude of about {{convert|800|m}} above the Adriatic. The highest summits are Maja e
Ilqës {{convert|733|m}}, Maja e Flamurit {{convert|826|m}} and Maja Çadëri {{convert|839|m}}.<ref>{{cite web|title=Llogora-Rreza e Kanalit-Dukat -Orikum-TragjasRadhime-Karaburun Complex Site|url=http://vinc.s.free.fr/IMG/karaburuni_llogara_MPenglish.pdf|website=vinc.s.free.fr|quote=The relief comprises a number of hills. The average altitude from the sea levels 800 m with a number of peaks. The highest peaks are the so-called Maja e Ilqes (733 m), Maja e Flamurit (826 m) and Çadëri (839 m).}}</ref>

The coastal landscape is characterized by a rough relief, that dips vertically into the Ionian Sea, it features several solitary peaks, large canyons, bays, caves and gulfs. Examples of typical landforms include [[Gjipe Canyon]], Gjiri i Arushës, Gjiri i Dafinës, [[List of bays of Albania|Gjiri i Gramës]] and so on. The geological evolution has formed also capes such as Haxhi Aliu, Galloveci and Kepi i Gjuhëzës, and other of 20 caves along the entire shoreline. The climate is Mediterranean, having hot summers and generally warm to cool, dry winters. Due to its climatic, hydrological and geological conditions, the area is characterized by its unique flora and fauna. Most of the territory consists of forests and is relatively well preserved, it includes many types of trees, such as [[Quercus ilex|Mediterranean oak]], [[Fraxinus ornus|Manna ash]], [[Quercus coccifera|Kermes oak]], and [[Acer campestre|Field maple]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Llogora-Rreza e Kanalit-Dukat -Orikum-TragjasRadhime-Karaburun Complex Site|url=http://vinc.s.free.fr/IMG/karaburuni_llogara_MPenglish.pdf|website=vinc.s.free.fr|page=43|quote=The most important trees in this type of forest are Quercus ilex, Fraxinus ornus, Quercus coccifera, Acer campestre, which form dense tree layer (cover 80 – 90 % in very well developed stands, height 8–10 m ).}}</ref>

== See also ==
* [[Environment of Albania]]
* [[Climate of Albania]]
* [[Biodiversity of Albania]]

== References ==
{{Reflist|30em}}

== Further reading ==
{{Commons category|Geography of Albania}}
{{commons|Atlas of Albania}}

* [https://web.archive.org/web/20120325152255/http://www.pmcg.co.me/NM7/Dako.pdf Dako, Alba, Mirela Lika and Hysen Mankolli – ''Monitoring Aspects of Air Quality in Urban Areas of Tirana and Durrës, Albania'', ''Natura Montenegrina'' 7, Number 2 (2008): 549–557].
* Floqi, Tania, Daut Vezi and Ilirian Malollari – ''Identification and Evaluation of Water Pollution from Albanian Tanneries'', ''Desalination'' 213, Number 1-3 (2007): 56–64.
* Muller, Daniel, Thomas Sikor – ''Effects of Post-Socialist Reforms on Land Cover and Land Use in South-Eastern Albania''. ''Applied Geography'' 26, Number 3-4 (2006): 175–191.

{{Albania topics}}
{{Geography of Europe}}
{{Europe topic|Climate of}}
{{Portal bar|Geography|Earth sciences|Ecology|Environment}}

[[Category:Geography of Albania| ]]
[[Category:Environment of Albania]]