Albania is rugged, craggy and mountainous inland. However, on its shores lie very fertile, verdant Adriatic coast, perfect for sustaining Albania’s largely agricultural economy. The coastal climate is typically Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The mountainous interior, especially in the north, has severe winters and mild summers. Over one third of Albania's land is covered by forests and swamps and only about one fifth of all the land is cultivated. These geographic obstacles, rivers and mountains, historically isolated Albania from its neighboring states. Thus, the population has remained largely homogenous. 90% of the population is ethnic Albanian and less than 10% is Greek. There are also Vlach, Bulgar, Serb, and Gypsy minorities in the country. Many ethnic Albanians also live in the Kosovo section of Serbia.

In Albania, 70% of the people are Muslim, about 20% are Greek Orthodox, and 10% Roman Catholic. From 1967 to 1990 all mosques and churches were closed, and Albania was officially considered to be an atheist country. In 1991, religion was legalized.

Majority of Albanians speak Albanian, which is an Indo-European language. However, within the language, there is a northern dialect called Gheg and a southern dialect called Tosk.

Throughout history, Albania has been sieged and occupied by other countries; in addition it has endured many civil wars within its turf. Thus, its people tend to be resilient and strong.   Albania's per capita income is among the lowest in Europe, but economic conditions in the country are gradually improving.