Elbasan is a city in central Albania, located in the Elbasan District. It is one of the oldest cities in Albania, with a history dating back to the 4th century BC. During its long history, Elbasan has served as an important cultural and economic center for the region. Throughout the centuries, the city has been occupied by a variety of different empires, including the Romans, Byzantines, Ottomans, and Austrians. Elbasan has also been the site of several significant battles, including the Battle of Elbasan in 1444, which saw the Ottomans defeat the Venetians.
The city was first mentioned in connection with the Illyrian tribe of the Albani, who settled in the area in the 4th century BC. The city was known as Albasan in Latin and Albasanos in Greek. It was an important commercial and military center, and was the capital of the Illyrian kingdom of Bardylis. During the Roman period, Elbasan was known as Scampa and was an important Roman military post. It was also an important center for Christianity, and is believed to have been the birthplace of St. Naum, a 9th-century monk and theologian.
In the Middle Ages, Elbasan was part of the Byzantine Empire, and was ruled by the Despot of Epirus. During this time, the city was an important trading center, and its citizens were known for their skill in weaving and metalworking. In the 15th century, Elbasan was conquered by the Ottoman Empire, and it remained under Ottoman rule until 1912. During this period, the city was known as Elbasan and was an important center of Islamic culture and learning.
In the 19th century, Elbasan was part of the Principality of Albania, which was established in 1878. The principality was dissolved in 1914, and Elbasan became part of the newly-formed Kingdom of Albania. During the 20th century, Elbasan was an important industrial center, and it was the site of several important battles during World War II. After the war, Elbasan became part of the People's Socialist Republic of Albania, and it remained a part of the country until the fall of communism in 1991.
Today, Elbasan is an important industrial and commercial center, and it is home to several universities and other educational institutions. The city is also an important cultural center, and it is home to several theaters, museums, and other cultural institutions. Elbasan is an important tourist destination, and it is home to several historic sites, such as the 15th-century Elbasan Castle and the 18th-century Clock Tower.