A new genetic study presented in Tirana has found that modern Albanians are direct descendants of ancient Balkan populations, offering new scientific evidence about Albanian origins in the Balkans.
The landmark research, presented at the Academy of Sciences of Albania, was conducted by an international team of genetic experts in collaboration with Albanian scientists. DNA samples were collected from Albanian populations across all regions of Albania in order to trace paternal ancestry, migration routes, and genetic continuity in the Balkans.
According to researcher Ilia Mikerezi, the genetic analysis of Y-chromosome markers and multiple haplogroups confirms that the Albanian population living today represents a direct continuation of the ancient populations that inhabited the Balkan Peninsula, including territories historically linked to Illyrian tribes. The findings reinforce long-standing historical theories regarding Albanian ancestry and indigenous Balkan roots.
Lead researcher Gjergj Bojaxhi stated that nearly 75 percent of Albanian male genetic lineages originate from Paleo-Balkan populations dating back to the Bronze Age and the Illyrian era. The study also suggests that after major demographic changes caused by barbarian invasions and Slavic migrations, surviving indigenous Albanian populations played a key role in repopulating Albanian-speaking territories across the western Balkans.
Researchers identified three major genetic clusters connected to ancient Albanian populations, including regions that today cover northern Albania, southeastern Albania, and Kosovo. Scientists also explained that genetic similarities between Albanians and neighboring populations, including Greeks, may be linked to ancient migration waves from Anatolia during the Bronze Age.
This Albanian genetic study, launched three years ago, will continue with further analysis to examine the relationship between genetic boundaries, dialect regions, and historic population movements in the Balkans.