Albanian Sworn Virgins

Overview

• Deep in the Albanian Alps, a centuries-old tradition of sworn virgins still exists.
• Women would swear an oath of celibacy and live as men under ancient laws where they had fewer rights.
• This tradition allowed them to adopt male liberties such as smoking and drinking alcohol.

Personal Stories

Drunder

• Views the choice as liberating.
• Enjoys the liberties of men through this practice.
• Lived in the tradition's ingrained societal roles.
• Has no regrets about making this decision at a young age.

Lally

• Lives in the coastal town of Duros.
• Part of only 12 remaining sworn virgins in the world.
• Represents a historical tradition going back centuries.
• Faces personal sacrifices to uphold family honor.

Valeriana

• Dooney's niece living in Tirana, Albania's capital.
• Decided against becoming a sworn virgin.
• Focuses on documenting the end of the tradition.
• This shows a shift in how modern women perceive the practice.

Cultural Context and Implications

• The burnishat trace their history back centuries, linked to territorial and familial customs.
• The tradition allowed some women to live life on their own terms in a highly patriarchal society.
• Today, the relevance and appeal of the tradition are in question.
• Modern Albanian women like Valeriana choose other paths, indicating societal shifts.

Conclusion

• The end of this tradition may signify broader changes in women's rights and societal roles in Albania.
• Historical significance remains, but the practice's future is uncertain as fewer women opt for it.