150+ Common Albanian Last Names Or Surnames With Meanings

Albania is rich in ancient history. Over the years, the country has undergone several transitions and Albanian last names are witness to these changes. These surnames exhibit the influence of all the cultures that entered this country. Albania is a secular nation with a mix of diverse religions. However, Islamic and Christian surnames are relatively common. They depict the distinctive geography of the country that stretches from the rugged mountains in the north to the sunny shores of the south. These surnames not only denote an individual’s family and culture but also their religion and profession.

Albania is less explored, so let’s get a glimpse into this beautiful country through Albanian last names with meanings.

150+ Common Albanian Last Names Or Surnames With Meanings

Most Albanian surnames have familial or occupational connotations. Let’s look at the most common surnames and explore different meanings.

Common Albanian Last Names

Discover Albania’s complex linguistic heritage through the most common Albanian surnames.

1. Adem

The Albanian surname Adem is derived from the masculine name Adam, which means ‘man’ or ‘son of red Earth.’

 2. Agolli

Agolli is a patronymic surname that could be inspired by the Ottoman Turkish title aga or agah, which means ‘lord’ or ‘elder brother.’

3. Alla

The surname does not have any known meaning or origin. However, it is a popular title in Albania. Footballer Albi Alla is known for playing for Albania’s national team.

 4. Asllani

Asllani could be derived from the given name Asllan meaning ‘lion.’ Albanian poet and activist Ali Asllani is known for writing the famous Albanian song ‘Hanko Halla.’

 5. Bajrami

The Albanian surname is derived from the Islamic name Bajram. It is a common family name not only in Albania but also in Kosovo and North Macedonia.

6. Balla

In Albanian, balla means ‘shoe repair.’ Hence. Balla could be an occupational surname for a person involved in shoemaking or shoe repairing.

7. Basha

Derived from the Turkish başa or the Arabic Pasha, the Albanian surname means a ‘head’ or ‘chief’ of a group or region.

8. Bardhi

In Albanian, Bardhi means ‘white.’ Professional footballer Enis Bardhi, from Macedonia, is a popular name bearer.

9. Bektashi

A surname and a given name, Bektashi’s meaning is unknown. However, it is believed to be derived from the Turkish given name Bektaş or Bektash meaning ‘equal’ or ‘peer.’    

10. Belegu

Common in eastern Albania, the surname Belegu could be derived from the Turkish name Bilge meaning ‘wise.’

11. Berisha

The surname denotes a person belonging to the Berisha tribe who lives in the Berishë village in Albania’s northern region.

12. Biba

The surname Biba could be a derivative of the Albanian nickname  bibë, which means ‘duckling’ or ‘young goose.’ In some cultures, Biba is also a given name.

13. Boga

The surname Boga has multiple roots and meanings. It may have arrived in Albania via Turkey. In Turkish, boğa is a nickname for a ‘bull.’

14. Bogdani

The patronym Bogdani means ‘son of Bogdan.’ It could also be derived from the Slavic name Bogdan meaning ‘God given.’

15. Bojaxhiu

In Albania, Bojaxhi means ‘painter.’ Mother Teresa is a noteworthy name bearer whose real name was Anjezë Gonxhe Bojiaxhiu.

16. Brahimaj

The surname could be a patronym meaning ‘descendant of Brahim.’ Brahim is a diminutive of the known Islamic name Ibrahim.

17. Brahimi

The surname Brahimi has no known origin or meaning. However, the surname is popular around the world and has several noteworthy individuals contributing to its popularity. Abdelhamid Brahimi who served as the Prime Minister of Algeria is a known personality.

18. Camaj

The surname is a patronym that means ‘son of Cama.’ It is derived from the given name Camë, a variant of the Italian Cama meaning ‘mud.’

19. Cena

Cena could be derived from the name Cenë, and is considered a diminutive of the Albanian Muslim personal name Hysen or Isen.

20. Çifligu

A toponymic, the surname could be based on the city of Çiflig, Albania. Çiflig is a Turkish word used to denote land management in the Ottoman Empire.

21. Çupi

The surname could be derived from the given name Jakup, which is the variant of the Latin Iacobus or the Hebrew Jacob.

22. Deda

The surname Deda could be a cognate of the personal name Dedë, which is a diminutive of the given name Domenik or Dominick meaning ‘of the Lord.’ Alternatively, it could also be inspired by the Illyrian feminine name Teuta meaning ‘tribe.’

23. Dema

The surname Dema could be inspired by the given name Demë, which is considered a diminutive of the Islamic given name Demir or Demiri meaning ‘iron.’

24. Dibra

As a surname, Dibra could be a habitational title associated with people who came from the Debar city of Macedonia.

25. Doda

Doda could be derived from the given name Dodë, which is the variant of Dedë, a diminutive of Dedalij. In Albanian mythology, Dedalij was the name of a tall and strong giant.

26. Duka

As a surname, Duka could be inspired by the name Duke, which is derived from the Latin Dux meaning ‘leader.’ Apart from Albania, this surname is also known in Ukraine and the Philippines.

27. Dushaj

Rooted in the Serbian language, dusha means ‘soul.’ It could also be a patronymic associated with the name Dush.

 28. Filipi

The surname could be derived from the masculine name Filipî, which is the Kurdish variant of the Greek Philippos meaning ‘lover or friend of horses.’

29. Gashi

The surname is associated with the people belonging to the Gashi tribe living in the Gash region in northern Albania. Apart from Albania, it is also a known surname in Kosovo.

 30. Gega

Albanian last names Gega

The surname has German roots as it could be referring to the ‘cackling of or sounds made by geese.’ Albanian athlete Luiza Gega is known for winning multiple international championships in running.

31. Gjergji

The surname could be derived from the given name Gjergji, which is the Albanian counterpart of the English name George. It is a popular last name amongst Christians in Albania.

32. Gjini

Gjini could be derived from the name Gjin, which could be a diminutive of Gentius. Albanian leader Mark Gjini is a popular namesake known for heading the negotiations with the Pope against the Ottoman Empire.

33. Gjoni

Gjoni could be derived from this given name Gjon, which is the Albanian counterpart of the Hebrew name John meaning ‘God is gracious.’

34. Grajçevci

A habitational surname, Grajçevci refers to someone from Greiçec, a place located in the town of Suva Reka in Prizren, Kosovo.

35. Guli

In Persian, gol means ‘rose’ or ‘flower.’ Guli could be a surname denoting a flower. Apart from Albania, it is also a known title in Georgia and Armenia.

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36. Hajdari

The surname Hajdari is derived from the masculine name Hajdar, which is the Albanian counterpart of Haidar meaning ‘lion’ or ‘warrior.’

37. Hasaj

The surname could be associated with the Hasaj tribe that belongs to the Nikç region located in Shkodër County, northern Albania.

38. Hoti

The surname is associated with the Hoti tribe from the Hot village located in the  northeast region of Lake Skadar. The surname is one of the most common titles in Kosovo.

39. Isufaj

Isufaj is derived from the masculine name Isuf, the Albanian variant of the given name Yusuf, meaning ‘God will add.’  

40. Isufi

The surname is derived from the given name Isuf, which is linked to the Arabic name Yusuf, which means ‘God will add.’

41. Jusufi

Jusufi is a surname inspired by the masculine name Jusuf, which is a variant of the Islamic name Yusuf. The name Yusuf itself is derived from the Hebrew name Yosef, which means ‘God will add.’

42. Kasa

Having multiple connections, Kasa could be derived from the given name Kasë meaning ‘maker of cheese.’ Alternatively, it could also be a diminutive of the Latin Cassianus or the Muslim name Kasëm.

43. Kastrati

The surname Kastrati is associated with the people belonging to the Kastrati tribe who live in Malësia, a region in northern Albania.

44. Koculi

A habitational surname, Koculi could be associated with people who belong to the Kocul village located in the Vlorë County in southern Albania.

45. Kodra

In Latin, corda means ‘rope.’ The surname Kodra could be derived from the Polish variant Korda, making it an occupational name as it was a nickname used for monks who used ropes as belts.

46. Korbeci

Korbeci’s roots could be traced back to Germany. It could be derived from the German term Korb, which means ‘basket.’

47. Kovaçi

Kovaçi is an occupational title derived from the term kovaç, which means ‘blacksmith’ in Albanian.

48. Kraja

The habitational surname refers to the natives of the Krajina region located in the southeastern region of Montenegro.

49. Krasniqi

The surname Krasniqi could be a habitational title for people who belonged to the Krasniqi tribe who lived in the northeastern region of Albania, near the border of Kosovo.

50. Kreshnik

Kreshnik does not have any known meaning or origin. However, numerous name bearers have helped popularize this surname across the world. Belgian kickboxer Rustemi Kreshnik was one such famous name bearer. Kreshnik is also used as a first name in many cultures.

51. Kristo

The surname is the short version of the given name Kristofor, which is the Albanian variant of the masculine name Christopher, meaning ‘bearer of Christ.’

52. Kryezi

In Albanian, Kryezi means ‘blackhead.’ It could be a habitational name for the people who came from the Kryezi village located in Tirana County, Albania.

53. Kukiç

Albanian last names Kukiç

The Albanian surname could be derived from the Serbian family name Kukić, which means ‘hook.’

54. Kuklis

The surname Kuklis has diverse roots. It could be derived from the Latvian nickname kūklys, which means ‘miser.’

55. Kuqi

In the Albanian language, kuq means the color ‘scarlet’ or ‘red.’ The surname Kuqi could be derived from kuq bearing the same meaning.

56. Lala

Having traditional Albanian roots, Lala is likely to be derived from the nickname lalë, which means ‘uncle’ or ‘elder brother.’ This surname is also used as a term of respect and intimacy for another person.

57. Lama

Lama could be a surname created out of the popular nickname lamë, denoting ‘under eye bags.’ It is also believed to be a diminutive of the name Islam.

58. Latifi

Having Persian roots, the surname Latifi is derived from the Arabic name Latif meaning ‘kind’ or ‘gentle.’

59. Llapashtica

The surname is likely to be a habitational name for individuals who belonged to Llapashticë e Poshtme villages in Kosovo.

60. Lila

An occupational surname, Lila could be derived from the term lilë which refers to a ‘loop-ring’ or a ‘link.’ It could also be connected to the Islamic name Halil meaning ‘a dear friend.’

61. Lika

In Albanian, Lekë is considered the short form for Greek Aléxandros, meaning ‘defender of people.’ Lika is believed to be a derivative of Lekë. Alternatively, Lika is also used as a given name.

62. Likaj

Having Slovenian roots, the last name Likaj is derived from the term likati meaning ‘to polish.’ It could be an occupational title for a ‘polisher’ or ‘husker.’ Alternatively, the surname could also be derived from the Greek Lekë meaning ‘defender of the people.’

63. Losha

There is no specific meaning attached to this surname. However, it is likely to be connected to the Albanian term word lios meaning ‘pockmark.’

64. Luka

Luka could be a derivative of the Albanian masculine name Lukë, from the Latin name Lucas, meaning ‘to shine.’ Luka is also a popular given name in many cultures.

65. Maloku

Of Albanian origin, the surname Maloku means ‘highlander.’ Footballer Elvir Mehdi Maloku is a notable namesake who plays for the Cypriot club PAEEK.

66. Mema

Having multiple origins, Mema could be a derivative of the Demë meaning ‘my blood.’ It could also be a diminutive of names such as Demir or Adem.

67. Muka

Some surnames cross boundaries with their people. Muka finds its roots in the African ethnic group, Lozi tribe and it means ‘bee.’

68. Murataj

Murataj is a traditional Albanian surname with no certain meaning. A popular namesake is Albanian footballer Valentino Murataj who plays for the national club Partizani.

69. Neziri

The surname Neziri does not have any known meaning or origin. However, it is a popular surname in Albania. Singer Inis Neziri is famous for winning multiple national and international singing competitions.

70. Ndoj

Ndoj does not have any known meaning but it could likely be a derivative of the name Ndue, which is the Albanian form of the Latin Antonius, meaning ‘praiseworthy.’

71. Nika

Having roots in multiple languages, Nika is a surname also used as a given name in different cultures. In Albanian, it is derived from the masculine name Nikë, a diminutive of Nikolla or Nicholas.

72. Nikolla

The Greek Nikolaos is a common masculine name amongst the Christians in Albania and it means ‘triumph of the people.’ The surname Nikolla could be derived from it.

73. Noka

The surname has Czech and Slovakian roots. It is derived from the term nosek which means ‘little nose.’

74. Nuhiji

The origins of Nuhiji are uncertain but it is a known family name in Albania. Arben Nuhiu, a Macedonian footballer is known for playing multiple international games.

75. Pali

The patronym Pali is derived from the Hungarian name Pál, which is a variant of the masculine name Paul meaning ‘humble.’

76. Papa

Papa is a title given to priests. This surname could be inspired by the Greek Pappas meaning ‘priest.’

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77. Pasha

In Albania, Pasha is a status or honorific title that was used in the period when Albania was ruled by the Ottoman Turkish. 

78. Peçi

The surname does not have any known meaning but is widely known in Albania. Albanian composer, Aleksandër Peçi is known for bagging numerous national and international awards for his exceptional work in the field of music.

79. Pepa

Pepa derives its meaning of ‘rock’ from its likely source name Pepë, which is a diminutive of the English name Peter.

80. Plaku

Plaku does not have any known meaning. However, the term plaku means ‘elderly person’ in Albanian. So, as a surname, it could refer to an ‘old man.’

81. Plaka

Plaka could be a name derived from the Albanian term plak  meaning ‘old.’ Plaka is the name of a place in Greece that was populated by Albanians who moved to the region during Ottoman Turkish rule.

82. Prenga

As an Albanian surname, Prenga does not have any definite meaning. However, it has been borne by several notable personalities including footballer Herdi Besnik Prenga known for playing in the Latvian football league Optibet Virslīga.

83. Prifti

A Christian status title, Prifti is inspired by the word prift, which is the Albanian term for ‘priest.’ Albanian politician Mihal Prifti is a noteworthy personality known for being the country’s first ambassador to the Soviet Union.

84. Qosja

Qosja does not have a certain meaning. However, it is believed that this surname belongs to the Kelmendi tribe who were descendants of Qosa Stanishaj and hailed from Vukël in northern Albania.

85. Ruçi

A habitational surname, Ruçi could have been adopted as a family name by natives of the Ruç or Ruçi village located near Tirana, Albania.

86. Selimaj

Selimaj does not have any known meaning but is a popular surname in Albania and Kosovo. Journalist and music producer, Dardan Selimaj from Kosovo is popular for producing over 300 TV shows.

87. Shkurti

The surname could be derived from the given name Shkurt, which means ‘short’ or the month of February.

88. Simoni

Simoni is derived from the individual name Simon, which is a variant of the Šimʻôn, meaning ‘to listen.’

89. Sokoli

In Albanian and some Slavic languages, Sokoli means ‘falcon.’ As a surname, it is popular in Albania and Kosovo. Albanian musician Ramadan Sokoli is a notable personality known for his deep knowledge of Albanian and Balkan music.

90. Spahiu

Spahiu could be derived from the occupational term spahi, which refers to a cavalryman who held fiefs in the Ottoman Turkish army.

91. Subashi

Probably an occupational or status title, the surname Subashi is derived from the term Soubashi, which means commander of the town or castle.

92. Sulaj

Sulaj could be a surname inspired by the Czech term šulák meaning ‘swindler.’ Agron Sulaj is a footballer from Albania who is currently the coach of the country’s national team.

93. Sulejmani

The surname could be derived from the masculine name Süleyman, which is the Turkish variant of the famous name Solomon, which means ‘peace.’

94. Tabaku

Derived from the Polish term tabaka meaning ‘tobacco,’ Tabaku could be an occupational name for a tobacco dealer.

95. Tola

Tola is derived from the Albanian given name Tolë, which is a diminutive of the personal name Apostol. This name is a variant of the Greek Apostle meaning ‘person who is sent out.’

96. Toska

Tosk is a group of languages spoken in south Albania. People speaking these languages are known as Tosks. The surname Toska could refer to a person who speaks these languages.

97. Tusha

Albanian last name Tusha

Tusha means ‘shower’ in Albanian. Competitive shooter Afërdita Tusha is a noteworthy namesake known for being the first woman athlete to compete in the Olympics for Albania.

98. Vrioni

A habitational surname, Vrioni could be used as a last name for people who came from Vrion village in Albania.

99. Xhafa

Xhafa is a patronymic linked to the given name Xhafë. Contemporary artist Sislej Xhafa is known for holding several successful exhibitions of his work and for bagging numerous awards for the same.

100. Xhaferaj

As an Albanian surname, Xhaferaj could be derived from the masculine name Xhafer, which is a variant of the Arabic Jafar meaning ‘stream.’ 

101. Xhaferi

Xhaferi is derived from the Albanian name Xhafer, which is a variant of the Arabic Jafar meaning ‘stream.’

102. Xhani

Xhani is the name of an Albanian tribe who live on the western side of the upper Kir river in northern Albania. This name is derived from the given name Iohannes.

103. Zaimi

The surname could be derived from the Islamic masculine name Zaim which means ‘chief or leader.’ Alternatively, it could be a patronym meaning ‘son of Azim.’

104. Zeneli

The origins or meaning of Zeneli are unknown. However, it is a known surname in the Southern region of Albania. Ahmet Zenel Gjonbalaj is a famous name bearer known for his tremendous contribution towards Albania’s freedom struggle.

105. Zoto

Zoto is not just an Albanian surname but also a given name. It is derived from the term zot, which means ‘Lord’ or ‘master.’

Popular Albanian Last Names

Some Albanian surnames have managed to leave a mark in society and have become more popular than other surnames.

106. Çela

As a surname, Çela could be derived from the nickname Çelë, which refers to a brother-in-law in Albanian. It could also be a diminutive of the Turkish çelebi, a title used for royalties, noble, and educated men.

107. Dervishi

Dervishi is believed to have Persian roots as it could be derived from the term dervish or darvish, which is used to denote the Sufi people. Alternatively, it could also mean ‘poor.’

108. Gjoka

The surname is derived from the personal name Gjokë, which is a nickname for Gjon. Gjoka is also considered a variant of the English name John in the Arvanitic language.

109. Hoxha

Having roots in the Persian title Khawaja or the Turkish term hoca, the surname Hoxha means ‘master.’ It can also be linked to the Islamic khoja referring to a teacher to a priest.

110. Koçi

The surname Koçi could be derived from the term koç, which means ‘calf of a domestic buffalo.’ It may have been used for a strong or muscular man. It could also be derived from Koç, which is a nickname used for individuals named Kostandin.

111. Kola

A common surname in Albania, Kola is derived from Kolë, which is mostly used as a nickname for Nikollë (the Albanian variant for Nicholas).

112. Kurti

Kurti could be derived from the given name Kurt, which means ‘fox’ in Turkish. The surname could mean ‘son of Kurt.’

113. Leka

Leka is likely to be derived from the given name Lekë, which is a diminutive of the Greek Alexander meaning ‘defender of the people.’ Leka is not only used as a surname but is also known as a given name.

114. Lleshi

Lleshi does not have any known meaning but is a popular surname in Albania. Albanian politician Ismail Lleshi is a notable namesake who was appointed as the defense minister of his country multiple times.

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115. Marku

The surname Marku is derived from the masculine name Mark. As a given name, Mark is inspired by the Latin Marcus meaning ‘dedicated to Mars.

116. Muça

The meaning of the surname Muça cannot be ascertained. However, it is a popular surname in Albania. Footballer Gentian Muça is a popular namesake who is a part of the Albanian club Tirana.

117. Shehu

A common surname in Albania, Shehu is derived from the title sheh, which refers to a spiritual leader of the dervishes of the Bektashi Sufi.

118. Sula

Sula is probably derived from the given name Sulë, which is a diminutive of the masculine name Sulejman or Suleiman meaning ‘peace.’

Albanian Muslim Last Names

Albanian Muslim last names show great influence of the Ottoman empire that once ruled Albania.

119. Ahmeti

The surname Ahmeti is derived from the masculine name Ahmet, which is the Turkish variant of Ahmad meaning ‘worthy of immense praise.’

120. Aliaj

The patronymic surname could be an ancestral name followed by a suffix denoting genealogy. Aliaj means ‘son or descendant of Ali.’

121. Aliu

Aliu could be derived from the masculine name Ali, which is of Arabic origin and means ‘exalted’ or ‘noble.’

122. Beqiri

Albanian last name Beqiri

Beqiri could be a surname derived from the Islamic given name Beqir, which is a variant of Arabic personal name Bakr meaning ‘young camel.’

123. Demiri

The surname is likely to be derived from the Turkish demir, which means ‘iron.’ Besir Demiri is a known Albanian footballer who plays for SC Gjilani.

124. Halili

Halili is derived from the given name Halil, which is of Arabic origin and means ‘happy.’ As a surname, it could mean ‘son of Halil.’

125. Hasanaj

The surname is a patronym meaning ‘descendant of Hasan.’ The Arabic masculine name Hasan means ‘handsome.’

126. Hasani

Hasani finds its roots in the Muslim personal name Hasan, which means ‘handsome’ or ‘good.’ This surname is mostly adopted by the descendants of Prophet Muhammad’s grandson, Hasan ibn Ali.

127. Hoxhaj

Hodja is an Islamic term for a ‘teacher.’ The Albanian last name Hoxhaj, derived  from the name Hodja, means ‘son of hodja.’

128. Islami

A unique title based on a religion. Islami is derived from the term Islam, which means ‘submission’ to the will of God.

129. Ismailaj

As a patronymic surname, Ismailaj means ‘descendant of Ismail.’ Apart from Albania, the surname is also prevalent in Greece and Kosovo.

130. Ismaili

Ismaili is a patronymic surname that means ‘descendant of Ismail.’ The Arabic name Ismail means ‘God has heard.’

131. Mehmetaj

As a surname, Mehmetaj is a patronym that means ‘descendant of Mehmet.’ Apart from Albania, it is also a popular surname in Kosovo.

132. Mehmeti

Mehmet is a popular Turkish name and Mehmeti could be a derivative of it. Mehmet means ‘the one who is praiseworthy.’

133. Meta

Meta could have Turkish and Arabic origins as it is likely to be derived from the first name Metë, which is a diminutive of the masculine name Mehmet.

134. Murati

Murati is an Albanian family name that could be derived from the given name Murat. The masculine name Murat is derived from the Turkish Murad, meaning ‘wanted’ or ‘desired.’

135. Mustafa

Mustafa is a popular Islamic given name that means ‘the chosen one.’ In Albania, it is also used as a surname in certain cultures.

136. Mustafaj

Mustafaj is a patronymic surname, which means ‘descendant of Mustafa.’ The Arabic name Mustafa means ‘the chosen one.’

137. Osmani

Osmani is a derivative of the popular Islamic name Osman meaning ‘wise.’ Osman was a popular title in the Ottoman Empire.

138. Rama

The Albanian surname Rama could be derived from the given name Ramadan, which is based on the Muslim holy month of Ramzan.

139. Rexhepi

Rooted in Arabic history, the surname Rexhepi is derived from the given name Rexhep, which is the Albanian variant of Rajab. In Islam, Rajab or Rajaba is the seventh month in their calendar. Also, it means ‘respect’ or ‘admiration.’

140. Sadikaj

Sadikaj is a patronym that means ‘son or daughter of Sadik.’ Sadik is a Turkish term that means ‘faithful’ or loyal.’

141. Sahatçiu

A professional surname, Sahatçiu is derived from the Turkish term saatçi, which means ‘maker of watches.’

142. Shahini

Shahini is a patronymic surname that means ‘descendant of Shahan.’ It could also be derived from the Persian term shāhānī meaning ‘royal.’

143. Shaba

The surname could be derived from the Islamic masculine name Shaban, which refers to the Holy month of shaʿbān.

144. Shehi

The Albanian surname Shehi could be derived from the Persian word shāhī meaning ‘royal.’ It was a title given to the rulers in the Eastern countries like Persia.

145. Shabani

In Arabic, the term shaʿbān means the eighth month of the Muslim year. The surname Shabani could be derived from it. Alternatively, it could also be derived from the masculine name Shaban meaning ‘scatter.’

146. Shahini

The surname is likely to be derived from the Persian name Shahin, which refers to a ‘falcon.’ It could also be derived from the Persian word shah meaning ‘king.’

147. Sinani

Rooted in the Arabic language, Sinani is inspired by the given name Sinan, which means ‘power.’ Ismet Sinani is a popular personality bearing this surname. He is a Kosovan footballer who plays for the club Clodiense.

148. Sina

Sina could be a habitational name denoting a person from the village of Sinë, Dibër County. Sinë is also a diminutive of the Turkish masculine name Sinan, meaning ‘power.’

149. Tahiri

Derived from the Arabic name Tahir, the surname means ‘chaste’ or ‘virtuous.’ Footballer Dodë Tahiri is remembered by his fans for being the goalkeeper in Albania’s first international match against Yugoslavia.

150. Turku

Albanian last names Turku

The surname could be derived from the Albanian term turk, which is the local term for a Turkish national. Alternatively, it could also be associated with the people who hail from the Finnish city of Turku.

151. Zeqiri

Zeqiri is likely to be derived from the given name Beqir coming from the Arabic personal name Bakr, meaning ‘young camel.’ The surname is also popular in Kosovo and North Macedonia.

Albanian last names are like time capsules holding the history of Albania. Whether the surname is as popular as Hoxha or less popular as Sina, every title has a story to share. And surnames without a story may have a strong link to people who have proudly carried it forward through generations. For the younger lot, these surnames are a link to their ancestors. They are a window showing them their ancient trades and professions. They are like routes guiding to their ancient land and territories. Albanian surnames are here to keep the country’s culture and heritage alive.

Key Pointers

  • Albanian surnames are mostly Islamic or Christian. There are other religions too but these two Abrahamic religions form the majority in the country.
  • Most of these last names are also popular in the neighboring country of Kosovo.
  • External cultures such as Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman, and Slavic show great influences on Albanian surnames.

Article written by Baby Plumbing

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