In the early 14th century, during the expansion of Angevin influence in the western Balkans, a significant diplomatic act was issued by Philip I of Taranto, styled Dominus Regni Albaniae. This document, originally composed in Greek and later translated into English by the historian John Van Antwerp Fine, provides valuable insight into the political organization and recognition of Albanian tribal structures at the time.
The act records that Philip granted privileges to thirteen Albanian tribes, thereby formally acknowledging their existence and status. As cited in Acta Albaniae (I, 563, 569), the tribes listed are:
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In Albanian historical interpretation, these correspond to the tribes known as: Albët, Shpatët, Kotarukët, Buzezinjtë, Aranitët, Lecenët, Turbacejt, Markezët, Skurajt, Zenevisët, Logoreskët, and Mateset.
A Latin version of the agreement further elaborates on the relationship between the Angevin ruler and these tribal leaders. In this formal declaration, Philip addresses the tribes as his loyal subjects and acknowledges their expressed desire to reaffirm allegiance to him and to his father, Charles II of Naples. In return, he promises protection, favor, and forgiveness for any past offenses, thereby reinforcing bonds of fealty and political cohesion.
Notably absent from this list are certain prominent noble families such as the Blinishti and Matranga, who appear to have held a distinct or elevated status. Meanwhile, the powerful Muzaka family had already secured similar privileges earlier under the reign of Charles II of Naples (1285–1309), indicating a layered and evolving hierarchy within Albanian aristocratic society.
The broader historical narrative of these sixteen Albanian tribes and noble families remains incomplete. Many aspects of their development, internal relations, and political roles continue to be shrouded in uncertainty. As such, the discovery and study of additional archival documents remain essential for shedding further light on this formative period of Albanian medieval history.