The development and spatial analysis of Albania's tirana historic city center in the post-socialist period within the context of globalization

As cities navigate the pressures of globalization, their urban strategies increasingly reflect the demands of global capital and economic competition. To project a competitive global image, cities often turn to iconic architectural projects and symbolic urban design, yet this emphasis on attracting international investment often exacerbates the divide between elite spaces and marginalized communities, reinforcing the commodification of public spaces. In post-socialist cities, the neoliberal shift from state-controlled economies to market-driven urbanization has intensified socio-spatial inequalities, with privatization and rapid development fragmenting urban landscapes. Tiran, the capital of Albania, which was governed by a communist system for nearly 45 years, followed a different course in this process and faced significant urban challenges following a chaotic transition period characterized by rapid population growth and spatial disorganization. In response, urban renewal efforts under the municipality focused on reclaiming public spaces and restoring the city's identity. This included the preservation of the historic center, the demolition of illegal kiosks, and the revitalization of public areas through façade refurbishment and international design competitions, aimed at improving both the functionality and image of the city. Such efforts were not only intended to beautify the city and reestablish order but also to raise Tiran's international profile, signaling its ambitions to emerge as a modern and resilient urban center. Over the last decade, however, Tiran's priorities have shifted, as the city increasingly aligns itself with global urban trends, attracting international attention and investment. The question arises: Does Tiran's initial focus on restoring public spaces and preserving its heritage represent a sustainable and inclusive approach to urban development, or do the pressures of globalization and international capital ultimately undermine the city's efforts to maintain social equity and protect its cultural identity?