Kosovo
Geography
Kosovo is located in the central part of the Balkan region in Southeast Europe. It is landlocked and bordered by Montenegro to the west, Serbia to the north and east, North Macedonia to the south, and Albania to the southwest.
The country's terrain is diverse, with the western and southwestern regions characterized by high mountain ranges, while the eastern and northeastern areas are predominantly flatlands. The highest peak is Gjeravica (Đeravica), standing at 2,656 meters.
History
The history of Kosovo is intertwined with the histories of its neighboring regions. The area was inhabited during the Neolithic period, with the Dardani tribe dominating during the Iron Age. It was incorporated into the Roman Empire in the 2nd century AD, and later passed into the hands of the Byzantine Empire.
In the late 14th century, Kosovo became the center of the Serbian Empire until it was conquered by the Ottoman Empire in 1455. The Ottomans ruled Kosovo for more than four centuries, until it was taken over by the Kingdom of Serbia in 1912 during the Balkan Wars.
Kosovo's modern history is marked by a long and often violent struggle for sovereignty. It declared independence from Serbia on February 17, 2008, but Serbia refuses to recognize Kosovo as a separate state.
Demographics
Kosovo has a diverse population that includes ethnic Albanians, Serbs, and other minority groups. The official languages are Albanian and Serbian, with Turkish, Bosnian, and Romani also spoken by some communities.
Economy
The economy of Kosovo is a transition economy. Kosovo was the poorest province of the former Yugoslavia, and it has faced numerous challenges since the disintegration of the federation, including the destruction of infrastructure and institutions during the Kosovo War. However, it has experienced growth in recent years, particularly in the service sector.
Politics and Government
Kosovo is a parliamentary representative democratic republic. The President of Kosovo is the head of state, and the Prime Minister of Kosovo is the head of government. The country's political framework is defined by the Constitution of Kosovo.
Culture
Kosovo's culture is a blend of influences from its Albanian, Serbian, Ottoman, and Western European heritages. The country is known for its rich folklore, unique music, diverse cuisine, and a wide array of festivals and celebrations.