Draft:Principality of Polog
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The Triballi Principality of Polog (Albanian: Principata Triballi e Pollogut) was a medieval Albanian principality located in the Polog Valley and possibly territories across Vidin and Pirot, encompassing present-day regions around Tetovo and Gostivar in North Macedonia. It emerged during the 14th century during or after the collapse of the Serbian Empire, as Albanian noble families reclaimed territories in the region. The principality was ruled by Gjërgur Tripalda, who is also known to being father of Voisava Kastrioti, mother of Skanderbeg.
Triballi Principality of Polog Principata Triballi e Pollogut | |
|---|---|
| 10th century 14th century–15th century | |
| Status | Principality |
| Capital | Htetovo/Tendon (present-day: Tetovo, North Macedonia |
| Common languages | Albanian |
| Religion | Orthodox Christianity |
| Government | Monarchy |
• | Gjërgur Tripalda |
| Prince | |
| History | |
• Formation during the collapse of the Serbian Empire | 10th century 14th century |
• Death of the ruler | 15th century |
| Today part of |  North Macedonia,  Bulgaria, Kosovo, Serbia |
History
[edit]The principality is believed to have been established in the aftermath of the disintegration of the Serbian Empire following the death of Stefan Dušan in 1355. Albanian noble families, leveraging the weakening central authority, reasserted control over lands in the Polog Valley. The region's strategic position along important trade routes and its fertile lands made it a valuable area for political and military control.
The principality was named after the ancient Triballi, an Illyrian or Thracian tribe historically connected to the area. While the connection to the Triballi name may have been symbolic, it reinforced the principality’s identity as distinct from Serbian and Byzantine influences.
Decline
[edit]The principality likely fell under Kastrioti rule during the late 14th or early 15th century as Gjërgur Tripalda died and left his lands to his son-in-law, Gjon I Kastrioti.
Geography
[edit]The Principality of Polog was centered in the Polog Valley, with its main settlements around modern-day Tetovo and Gostivar. Some historical accounts suggest it may have extended to regions in modern-day Vidin and Pirot, although this is subject to historical interpretation.
Legacy
[edit]The principality is a symbol of medieval Albanian liberty, resilience and resistance. Reflecting efforts by Albanian noble families to maintain their independence during periods of regional upheaval.
See also
[edit]References
[edit]
Further reading
[edit]- Noli, Fan S. (1947). History of Skanderbeg (George Kastrioti). International Universities Press.
- Cutolo, Alessandro (1940). Skënderbeu (in Italian). Tipografia Ambrosiana.