The Republic of Albania is located on the coast of the Adriatic Sea in the
southwestern part of the Balkan peninsula. Seventy percent of the population
once followed Islam. After World War II, however, Albania became a socialist
country, and antireligious sentiment became stronger than before. At the
convention of the Communist Party in 1966, Albania officially stated that it was
the world's first country without a god. All the churches were taken over by the
government, and all priests were forced to retire from the priesthood. Until
recently, Albania kept its borders closed, and almost all foreigners were
forbidden entry.

Islamic customs were formerly practiced by the people, but now they eat
pork, drink alcoholic beverages, and ignore the ritual of fasting. The people
toast with glasses of raki wine, and say "Gzwar" (to happiness) even in the
middle of the day. The Albanians claim that by denying religion it became
possible for the first time to forget their feudalistic system and history.

When someone dies in Tirana, the capital, a very simple secular funeral is
held at the family home or at a gathering place. A representative from the
mourning party gives a speech of condolence, and the body is buried in the
graveyard. A memorial service may also be held.

In the rural area, wailing, scratching one's face, cutting or tearing out one's
hair, and wearing clothes inside out, are recognized modes of mourning. This
ritualistic behavior is exhibited by female dependents and neighbors, rarely by
men, and sometimes female mourners are hired. However, these customs are
now disappearing.

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