Mirësevini! Welcome to the youngest country in Europe—Kosovo, a landlocked country in the heart of the Balkans that declared its independence in 2008. There are around 2 million people living here, and the capital is Pristina, a lively city known for its youthful energy and vibrant coffee culture. The official languages are Albanian and Serbian.

Kosovo covers about 10,887 square kilometers (4,203 square miles). To imagine its size, the country is roughly the same size as the state of Delaware in the U.S., or about the same size as Jamaica. Despite its small footprint, it is surrounded by dramatic mountain ranges, including the Sharr Mountains and the Accursed Mountains (Prokletije).

The most popular sport is Football, followed closely by Judo, which has brought the country several Olympic gold medals. Their national animal is the Golden Eagle, a symbol deeply rooted in the heritage of the majority Albanian population.

The flag features a map of the country in gold topped by six white stars on a blue background, where the blue and stars reflect the design of the European Union flag and the six stars represent the six main ethnic groups living within the nation.

The food is a hearty blend of Balkan and Mediterranean traditions. You must try Flija, a unique dish made of multiple crepe-like layers brushed with cream and slow-baked over several hours. Another staple is Burek, flaky pastry filled with meat, cheese, or spinach. If you enjoy a snack, Ajvar (a roasted red pepper spread) is a local favorite, often served with fresh bread and salty white cheese.

Kosovo is home to some of the most beautiful medieval architecture in the world, including the Visoki Dečani Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its stunning frescoes. The city of Prizren is considered the cultural capital, with its Ottoman-era Old Stone Bridge and a fortress that offers views over the entire region. Kosovo has one of the youngest populations in Europe, which contributes to its famous nightlife and the countless trendy cafes that line the streets of its cities. The country is also becoming a top destination for hiking and mountain sports, with trails that offer some of the most untouched wilderness on the continent.

From the bear sanctuary in Mramor to the historic mosques and churches of the old towns, Kosovo is a land of resilience, hospitality, and new beginnings. Faleminderit! That means “Thank you!”