The National Library of Albania now houses the epic poem “Florante at Laura.”
A copy of the Albanian translated Florante at Laura.
MANILA – The National Library of Albania now houses the Albanian edition of Francisco Balagtas’ Florante at Laura, an epic poem set in the fictional Kingdom of Albania.
Five copies of the book are available for Albanian nationals, making it the first title by a Filipino author to be part of the library’s collection.
The launch on April 15 marks a notable point in Philippines-Albania cultural relations as it increases the accessibility of Filipino literature in Tirana.
The translation project was an initiative in collaboration with the National Book Development Board of the Philippines.
The book holds the distinction of being the only poem in the Philippines that has not gone out of publication since its initial release in 1838.
Thanks to this translation, Albanian readers
About: National Library of Albania
The National Library of Albania, located in Tirana, was established in 1922 and has since played a pivotal role in the preservation and dissemination of Albanian cultural heritage. It holds a vast collection of over 1 million books, periodicals, maps, and other printed materials. The library serves as a crucial resource for researchers and the general public, offering access to a wide range of historical and contemporary information about Albania and the broader Balkan region.
About: Kingdom of Albania
The Kingdom of Albania was a monarchy in southeastern Europe, established in 1272 by Charles I of Anjou, who was granted the lands as a reward for his support of the papal cause during the political and military struggles of the time. It existed intermittently, with various degrees of independence and territorial control, until the late 14th century when it ceased to exist due to internal strife and external pressures, notably from the Serbian Empire. Throughout its history, the Kingdom of Albania was characterized by its strategic importance in the Adriatic Sea and its role in the broader conflicts of the medieval Mediterranean world.
About: National Book Development Board of the Philippines
The National Book Development Board (NBDB) of the Philippines is a government agency established to promote the development of the local book publishing industry. Created through the enactment of Republic Act No. 8047, also known as the Book Publishing Industry Development Act, in 1995, the NBDB is tasked with formulating and implementing policies to strengthen the publishing sector. The Board’s efforts include providing support for authors, publishers, and distributors, enhancing reading literacy, and promoting the Philippines’ literary culture both domestically and internationally.
