Fact 1: Young At Heart
Kosovo is home to the youngest population in Europe. The median age is around 29, and approximately 70% of the population is under the age of 35. This vibrant, youthful energy is palpable, particularly in the capital city of Pristina, which buzzes with a lively arts, culture and nightlife scene.
Fact 2: A Unique Independence Day
Kosovo declared independence from Serbia on 17th February 2008, essentially birthing the world’s second youngest country after South Sudan. What's even more fascinating: Its independence is still disputed and has not been recognized by several countries, including Serbia, Russia and China.
Fact 3: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with Decades of History
In Kosovo, you can find the medieval monuments in Decani, which consist of four churches listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These religious monuments - Decani Monastery, Patriarchate of Peć Monastery, Our Lady of Ljeviš and Gračanica Monastery - are esteemed for their art and architecture dating back to the 13th century.
Fact 4: Multi-Lingual Land
Kosovars are generally bilingual or even trilingual. The official languages of Kosovo are Albanian and Serbian, but many Kosovars also speak English and German. This multi-lingual environment is a testament to the nation's rich cultural tapestry and global influence.
Fact 5: Coffee Culture
Kosovo has a strong coffee culture, with countless coffee shops found in every city corner. It is common courtesy for Kosovars to invite guests for a cup of coffee – normally Turkish coffee - which is seen as an offer of friendship.
Fact 6: The Tech-savvy Country
In spite of its rural landscapes and historical ethos, tech is surprisingly big in Kosovo. The country has an emerging tech industry, with a growing number of young entrepreneurs and startups. It’s not unusual to find state-of-the-art tech facilities and co-working spaces throughout Pristina.
Fact 7: The Symbolic Flag
The flag of Kosovo is a visual symbol of its multiculturalism. It features a gold map of Kosovo on a blue background, along with six white stars each representing the six major ethnic groups: Albanians, Serbs, Turks, Gorani, Romani and Bosniaks.
Fact 8: A Taste for Raki
Raki, a traditional fruit brandy, is a popular spirit in Kosovo. It is commonly served during celebrations and special occasions. This strong liquor is often homemade, lending it a unique taste that differs from house to house.
Fact 9: Lover of Festivals
Kosovo might just be one of the most festival-loving nations. It hosts a range of events throughout the year, from film and jazz festivals to grand food fests. Dokufest, an annual international documentary and short film festival held in the city of Prizren, is one of its most acclaimed lauds.
Fact 10: Land of the Brown Bears
Surprisingly, the Sharri Mountains in southern Kosovo are home to a thriving population of brown bears - one of the highest densities in Southeast Europe. These wild creatures have been observed both in the dense forests and in recreational parks offering a unique wildlife experience.
Fact 11: Home of the Copied Eiffel Tower
In the city of Ferizaj, Kosovo, there's a replicated model of the Eiffel Tower. Although it's not as grand as the Parisian original, it's still a fascinating attraction that stands as a symbol of the city’s love for all things French.
Fact 12: The Newborn Monument
The Newborn Monument in Kosovo's capital, Pristina, is a distinctive landmark. Introduced on the country's independence day, it is repainted every year, allowing citizens to leave their marks and messages on this symbolic structure.
Fact 13: High Frequency of US Support
A high proportion of Kosovars have positive attitudes towards the USA due to its support during and after the Kosovo War. In fact, a statue of Bill Clinton has been erected in Pristina, and a street is even named after him!
Fact 14: The Stunning Rugova Canyon
Rugova Canyon, located in western Kosovo, is one of Europe's longest and deepest canyons. This beautiful landscape offers opportunities for exploration, rock climbing, hiking, and paragliding, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Fact 15: Passionate About Eagles
In Kosovo, the eagle is a ubiquitous symbol that can be found on flags, signs, and buildings. The double-headed eagle, characteristic of the Albanian flag, reflects the Albanian majority in Kosovo and is a beloved icon of national identity.
Fact 16: Presence of Multiple Religions
Kosovo is made up of a mosaic of different religions. Although a majority of Kosovars identify as Muslim, there are also significant Serbian Orthodox, Catholic and Jewish communities. These different faith groups live side by side, each with their distinct traditions and festivals.
Fact 17: Impressive Illiria Monument in the Capital
In Pristina, the capital city, there stands the monumental statue “Heroinat” or Heroines, in honor of the thousands of Kosovar Albanian women who were victims during the Kosovo War. The statue, built to look like a golden filigree skirt, is a touching tribute and a must-visit landmark.
Fact 18: The Blue Eye's Awe-inspiring Blue Water Body
The Blue Eye, or Syri i Kalter, in Theth, Kosovo, is a breathtaking natural wonder. The blue and clear spring water flowing from the mountain can reach up to 50 meters deep, and it remains an intriguing mystery as its bottom has never been reached.
Fact 19: Bread as a Cultural Significance
In Kosovo, bread holds more than just food value; it symbolizes hospitality and respect. It's believed that bread should not be wasted or thrown away. In some traditional Kosovo homes, a small bread roll, or 'lepinja', is baked in honor of dead ancestors or for good luck.
Fact 20: The Protective Amulet: Dhikr Prayer Beads
In Kosovo, many people carry dhikr prayer beads, also known as 'tespih'. This is not only a religious act but also a means to ward off evil. The tespih is seen as a protective amulet, representing a fascinating blend of Islamic faith and ancient cultural beliefs.