HISTORICAL PHOTO/ Congress of Monastery, who were the prominent figures who united the Albanian nation in one alphabet

The Congress of Manastir is commemorated every year on November 22 as Alphabet Day, a day that carries within itself the spirit of unity and progress of the Albanian nation.

This event is not only a historic moment, but also a reminder of the power of cooperation and national vision.

Her influence remains alive in Albanian history and culture, inspiring generations to protect and further develop the linguistic and cultural heritage.

The Congress of Manastir, held from November 14 to 22, 1908, represents one of the most important moments in Albanian national history, marking a big step towards the cultural and linguistic unification of Albanians.

In this great event, prominent figures of the national movement, such as Gjergj Fishta, Mit'hat Frashëri, Parashqevi Qiriazi, Ndre Mjeda, Shahin Kolonja and many others, gathered to address a fundamental issue such as the standardization of the alphabet.

The congress concluded with the adoption of a common alphabet based on Latin letters. This choice was not a technical decision, but a strategic and symbolic act to emphasize the western identity of Albanians and to separate the country from foreign influences that aimed at cultural division.

The decisions of the Congress of Manastir opened a new era for Albanian education, literature and culture. The adopted alphabet became the basis for the further development of literature and science in the Albanian language, helping to strengthen national consciousness and the spread of mass education.

Members of the Congress of Manastir:

Gjergj Fishta - Chairman of the Commission

Mithat Frashëri - President of the Congress;

Ndre Mjeda - Member of the Commission

Parashqevi Qiriazi - Secretary of the Commission

Grigor Cilka - Vice President

Luigj Gurakuqi - Vice President of the Congress

Hilë Mosi - Secretary of the Congress for Albanian

Thoma Avrami - Secretary of the Congress for Albanian

Fehim Zavalani

Vrioni knots

Phineas Kennedy

Bajo Topulli

Sotir Peci

Gjergj Qiriazi

Chess Cologne

Demetrius Buddha

Mihal Grameno

Sami Pojani

Fillomena A. Bonati