In a surprising turn of events, Prince Leka II of Albania has announced his engagement to Blerta Celibashi, a wedding photographer, just a year after a highly publicized and contentious divorce from his former wife, Princess Elia Zaharia. The engagement was officially celebrated on October 11, 2025, in Ksamil, Southern Albania, marking a new chapter for the prince.
The announcement comes after a year of personal turmoil for the 43-year-old prince. His previous marriage to Princess Elia Zaharia ended in January 2024 after eight years, with the couple citing that their union had “lost its function.” The separation was marred by allegations of domestic violence, leading to a court order mandating that the pair maintain a distance of five meters from each other. Prince Leka was also restricted to seeing his daughter, Princess Geraldine, only in the presence of a nanny.
The New Engagement
Despite the past year’s challenges, Prince Leka appears to have found happiness with Blerta Celibashi. The couple’s engagement was joyfully announced on Instagram, accompanied by portraits showcasing their affection. The Royal Court expressed its pleasure in sharing the news, stating,
“The Royal Family shares their happiness with the Albanian people and extends heartfelt gratitude to all who have conveyed their kind wishes on this joyful occasion.”
Blerta, who was introduced to royal life at a gala dinner last year, has since been a constant presence at official engagements alongside Prince Leka. Their relationship appears to have blossomed amidst the backdrop of royal duties and public scrutiny.
Background and Historical Context
The engagement signifies a new beginning for Prince Leka, who has faced significant public and personal challenges. His previous marriage to Princess Elia was a high-profile union, celebrated in 2016 with a lavish ceremony attended by over 20 royal families worldwide, including Prince Michael of Kent. The couple welcomed their daughter, Princess Geraldine, in 2020, named in honor of Leka’s paternal great-grandmother, Queen Geraldine.
The Albanian monarchy, although defunct since 1943, remains a symbol of national heritage. The royal family was expelled from Albania in 1939 following the Italian fascist invasion. After World War II, the Communist regime stripped the monarchy of power, forcing the family into exile. Despite these historical upheavals, the royal family has maintained a presence in Albanian cultural and public life.
Controversial Divorce and Allegations
The dissolution of Prince Leka’s marriage to Princess Elia was fraught with controversy. Following their separation, a video surfaced online allegedly showing a physical altercation involving Prince Leka, Princess Elia, and her father, Gjergj Polikron Zaharia. The incident led to police intervention and a court ruling enforcing protection orders for both parties.
The Royal Court issued a statement condemning the leak of the video, expressing disappointment with law enforcement for violating privacy. The statement read,
“The Royal Court deeply expresses disappointment with law enforcement institutions that we suspect have violated the right to anonymity by distributing third-party videos.”
Princess Elia, for her part, claimed her involvement in the altercation was an attempt to defuse the situation, as reported by Albanian Daily News. She described the incident as a “very difficult situation” for her family.
Looking Forward
As Prince Leka embarks on this new chapter with Blerta Celibashi, the Albanian royal family continues to navigate its complex historical legacy. The engagement represents a fresh start for the prince, who remains a significant cultural figure in Albania despite the monarchy’s political dissolution.
Observers will be watching closely as Prince Leka and Blerta prepare for their future together, with many hoping that this new union will bring stability and happiness to the royal household. The engagement celebration, attended by family and close friends, marks a hopeful beginning for the couple amidst the backdrop of Albania’s rich royal history.
With the announcement of the engagement, the Royal Court has asked the public and media to respect the family’s privacy as they move forward. The focus now turns to the future, with anticipation building around the potential for new beginnings and renewed public interest in Albania’s royal lineage.
