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Kosovo Lifestyle and Culture

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The country’s long, troubled history and its rich culture are connected to the many different empires prominent in the region over the centuries, as well as to the different ethnicities of its present-day inhabitants. 

Population shifts due to wars and internal conflicts have resulted in separate religions and traditions, and the country’s recent declaration as an independent republic has brought all its nation together in pride and peace.

History

As with the rest of the Balkan nations, the region now known as Kosovo was first settled in antiquity and transformed into part of the Roman Empire just over two millennia ago.

During the European migrations sparked by the fall of Rome, the country was subject to barbarian raids during the 5th and 6th centuries, with Slavs arriving and taking over in the late 6th and 7th centuries.

Until the Middle Ages, the region slipped into obscurity, although by the 9th century, it was part of the Bulgarian Empire and had absorbed Christianity.

As with the Balkans in general, the 19th century in the country saw a resurgence of nationalistic fervor, resulting in rebellions and civil antagony. The Albanian nationalist movement was based here, add ongoing tension between Muslims and Christians focused on autonomy and cultural privileges.

By the early 20th century, the trend toward population exchanges, border fights and devastating wars were well established, beginning with an Albanian uprising in 1912.

Culture

At the present time, ethnic Albanians form the majority of Kosovo’s population, with Albanian the country’s official language and Islam the principal religion. Village life, with its extensive family networks dominated by a patriarch, still exist in the rural areas although, as young people move to the big cities, it’s being blended by Western values.

Among this group, lifestyles are based on the clan system, with many unwritten laws and norms that date back centuries regarded as legally binding, including personal honor and dignity.

Generally, Kosovo’s culture is an eclectic blend of ethnicities, including a number of separate languages and traditions. Ottoman heritage is strong with Turkish-speakers found in many regions and the Serbian minority leading the less known groups in the rural areas.

A small number of Roma remain and are traditionally credited with influencing music styles, as are the Serbs. Music, dance and art are highly honored, forming a major part of the cultural events and celebrations here, especially the elaborate wedding ceremonies with their elaborate costumes and make-up.

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