TIRANA, April 7 – Albania commemorates a defining moment in its modern history, marking the anniversary of the Italian invasion of Albania. The country honors Mujo Ulqinaku as a symbol of resistance against foreign occupation. The events of April 7, 1939, remain central to national memory.
On that day, Fascist Italy launched a coordinated military assault across Albania’s coastline. Albanian forces offered limited but determined resistance. In Durrës, one of the main landing points, Ulqinaku took position with a machine gun and opened fire on invading troops. He targeted soldiers as they disembarked from ships.
Ulqinaku continued resisting despite overwhelming force and heavy fire. He fought until he fell during the battle. His actions disrupted the initial landing and marked one of the earliest acts of organized resistance against fascist forces in Albania. His stand gained lasting recognition in the country’s historical narrative.
Authorities later awarded Ulqinaku the title “People’s Hero.” His name remains closely linked to the defense of Durrës and the wider resistance. Albania holds commemorative events each year on this date. Citizens honor those who opposed the occupation and reflect on national resilience.
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