The earliest name directly linked to modern-day Albania is derived from the Albanoi tribe, first mentioned in the 2nd century CE. However, the region that constitutes present-day Albania was historically known as Illyria before this name became prevalent.
Historical Context and Name Evolution
The history of the name for the territory now known as Albania involves a transition over several centuries:
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Illyria: The Earlier Name of the Region
The land comprising modern Albania was historically part of the larger region known as Illyria. This name was in use for centuries before the advent of names related to the Albanoi tribe. -
Emergence of the Albanoi Tribe
The name of the Albanoi tribe, which inhabited what is now central Albania, was first recorded in the 2nd century CE by the Greek geographer Ptolemy of Alexandria. This mention marks the earliest known reference to a name that would eventually evolve into "Albania." -
Transition Period (8th to 11th Century)
During the period from the 8th to the 11th century, the name Illyria gradually gave way to a name derived from the Albanoi tribe. This transition signifies the shift from a broader regional designation to a more specific name that is the precursor to the modern nation's name.
Key Names and Timeline
To clarify the naming evolution, here's a brief overview:
| Name/Term | Period/First Mention | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Illyria | Pre-8th Century | The historical name for the region encompassing much of the western Balkans, including the territory that is now Albania. It was the dominant name for the area before the name derived from the Albanoi tribe gained prominence. |
| Albanoi | 2nd Century CE | The name of a tribe in central Albania, first documented by Ptolemy of Alexandria. This tribal name is considered the earliest direct linguistic link to the modern name "Albania," marking the point from which the country's current designation began to evolve. |
| 8th-11th Century | Transition Period | This period marks when the historical name Illyria progressively receded, and the name derived from the Albanoi tribe gained widespread recognition, eventually solidifying into the name we recognize today. |
In essence, while the territory was broadly known as Illyria for a long time, the specific name that led to "Albania" originated with the Albanoi tribe.
