Today marks 581 years since the League of Lezhë, also known as the Albanian League of Lezhë, was formed on March 2, 1444. This historic assembly, held in the Cathedral of Saint Nicholas in Lezhë, brought together Albanian princes to unite against Ottoman expansion.
The Founding of the League
The League was organized by Gjergj Kastrioti-Skënderbeu, who had recently returned from the Ottoman Empire. Its primary goals were:
- Uniting Albanian noble families to resist Ottoman rule.
- Establishing a joint military force under Skënderbeu’s command.
- Creating a common war fund to support the fight for independence.
Among the key figures attending the assembly were Gjergj Arianiti, Andrea Topia, Teodor Korona Muzaka, Pal and Nikollë Dukagjini, Lek Zaharia Altisferi, Pjetër Spani, Lek Dushmani, and Stefan Çernoviçi. Representatives from the Republic of Venice also participated as observers.
A Turning Point in Albanian History
The League of Lezhë marked a significant step toward the political unification of Albanian lands. With Skënderbeu as the supreme military commander, the league successfully coordinated efforts against Sultan Murad II, delaying the Ottoman advance into Europe.
Even centuries later, the League of Lezhë remains a symbol of Albanian unity, resistance, and democratic decision-making, reflecting the enduring struggle for national sovereignty.
