The Smallest Country in the World
The world is home to over 190 recognized sovereign nations, each with its unique history, culture and identity. However, the prospect of a new nation emerging in the heart of Europe has captured the attention of many. In Albania, plans are underway to establish a sovereign enclave for the Bektashi Order, a Sufi sect with deep historical roots in the region. If realized, this enclave could become the smallest country in the world, akin to Vatican City, and would represent a significant development in the landscape of global geopolitics and religious identity
Historical Context of the Bektashi Order
Origins and Development
The Bektashi Order was founded in the 13th century by Haji Bektash Veli, a Persian Sufi mystic whose teachings emphasized love, tolerance, and the pursuit of knowledge. The order gained prominence during the Ottoman Empire, particularly among the Janissaries, who found spiritual guidance in its teachings. Over the centuries, the Bektashi community has faced various challenges, including repression during the Ottoman period and the communist regime in Albania, which sought to suppress religious practices.
Overview
- The Bektashi World Centre is situated in the northeastern suburbs of Tirana and features a grand tekke (teqe), which is a place of worship and community gathering for Bektashi followers.
- The center includes a museum that showcases the history and artifacts of the Bektashi Order, along with a gift shop offering various Bektashi-related souvenirs.
Architectural Significance
- The tekke is renowned for its stunning marbled mosaics, which display a breathtaking array of colors and patterns, reflecting the artistic heritage of the Bektashi community.
- The architectural design of the center embodies the spiritual and cultural values of the Bektashi Order, making it a significant landmark in Tirana.

Historical Context of Bektashi Order
Resurgence in Albania
Following the fall of communism in the early 1990s, the Bektashi Order experienced a revival in Albania. The restoration of religious freedoms allowed the community to reclaim its cultural heritage and re-establish its presence in the country. The Bektashi World Centre in Tirana, inaugurated in 2015, serves as the spiritual and administrative hub for the order, symbolizing its resilience and commitment to promoting interfaith dialogue and understanding.
The Proposal for a Sovereign Enclave
Vision for the Enclave
The proposal to create a sovereign enclave for the Bektashi Order in Tirana is rooted in the desire to establish a space that reflects the order’s values of love, tolerance, and spiritual growth. This enclave would not only serve as a religious center but also as a cultural and educational hub for followers and visitors alike. The envisioned enclave would be approximately a quarter of the size of Vatican City, making it the smallest recognized sovereign state in the world.
Political and Legal Considerations
The establishment of a sovereign enclave would require navigating complex political and legal frameworks. The Albanian government would need to grant official recognition to the enclave, and discussions would likely involve negotiations regarding governance, autonomy, and the rights of the Bektashi community. The enclave’s creation could also set a precedent for other religious or cultural groups seeking similar recognition.
Implications of a New Nation Bektashi Order
Cultural and Religious Significance
The birth of a new nation in the form of a Bektashi enclave would have profound cultural and religious implications. It would provide a dedicated space for the Bektashi community to practice their faith freely and promote their unique interpretation of Islam, which emphasizes inclusivity and tolerance. The enclave could also serve as a model for interfaith dialogue, showcasing how diverse religious communities can coexist peacefully.
Geopolitical Impact
The establishment of a Bektashi enclave could alter the geopolitical landscape of the Balkans. It may inspire other minority groups or religious communities in the region to seek similar recognition, potentially leading to a reconfiguration of national boundaries and identities. Additionally, the enclave could attract international attention, drawing visitors and scholars interested in Sufism and the Bektashi tradition.

Challenges Ahead for Bektashi Order
Internal and External Opposition
While the vision for a Bektashi enclave is ambitious, it is not without challenges. Internal divisions within the Bektashi community, as well as opposition from other religious groups or political factions, could hinder the realization of this plan. Additionally, the Albanian government may face pressure from neighboring countries or international organizations regarding the implications of creating a new sovereign state.
Sustainability and Governance
Establishing a new nation requires careful planning and sustainable governance. The Bektashi Order would need to develop a framework for managing the enclave, including laws, economic systems, and social services. Ensuring the enclave’s viability and success would be crucial for its long-term stability and acceptance.
Conclusion | Bektashi Order
The potential birth of a new nation in the form of a sovereign enclave for the Bektashi Order in Albania represents a unique intersection of spirituality, culture, and politics. If realized, this enclave could become a symbol of religious tolerance and coexistence, offering a space for the Bektashi community to thrive and share its teachings with the world.
As discussions continue and plans unfold, the eyes of the international community will be on Albania, watching to see if this vision of a new nation becomes a reality. The journey toward sovereignty is fraught with challenges but the dream of a Bektashi enclave could pave the way for a new chapter in the history of religious and cultural identity in the Balkans and beyond.
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