Iskodar

Iskodar, also known as Shkodër (Albanian) or Scutari (Italian and historically in English), is a city in northwestern Albania and the capital of Shkodër County. It is one of the oldest and most historically significant cities in Albania, situated near Lake Shkodër, the largest lake in the Balkan Peninsula.

Iskodar boasts a rich history, having been inhabited since ancient times. It was initially settled by the Illyrians, later becoming part of the Roman Empire and subsequently the Byzantine Empire. Throughout the Middle Ages, it was a strategically important city, changing hands between various Balkan powers, including the Serbians, Venetians, and finally the Ottomans in the 15th century.

Under Ottoman rule, Shkodër, as it was then known, became an important administrative and commercial center in the region. The city played a significant role in Albanian resistance movements against Ottoman rule.

Following Albania's independence in 1912, Shkodër continued to be a major cultural and economic hub. Today, it is known for its historical architecture, including the Rozafa Castle, which dominates the city's skyline, and its vibrant cultural life. The city is home to a number of museums, theaters, and festivals that showcase the region's history and traditions. The population of Iskodar is predominantly Albanian, with smaller communities of Montenegrins and other ethnic groups.