Crown Prince Leka of Albania has entered into marital bliss for the second time, marrying photographer Blerta Celibashi. The couple tied the knot in a private ceremony on March 15, 2026, after announcing their engagement several months prior. This intimate occasion took place at the historic Apponyi Castle in Slovakia, adding significance through its connection to the royal heritage of Albania.
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The announcement was officially shared on Crown Prince Leka’s social media, where the Royal Court of Albania expressed its joy over the union. “The marriage was celebrated in a private ceremony, preserving its intimate and solemn character,” the statement read. Accompanied by two photographs of the newlyweds, the royal message highlighted the importance of the location, chosen to honour the legacy of Queen Geraldine, whose lineage remains central to Albania’s royal history.
With her new title, Blerta Celibashi is now Princess Blerta of the Albanians, adopting the royal family name Zogu. The updates from the court also conveyed the couple’s happiness, stating that they wished to share this joyful development not only with the Albanian nation but also with friends and admirers worldwide. The couple’s official photographs captured a moment of togetherness, with Crown Prince Leka donning a classic morning suit and Princess Blerta opting for an elegant white skirt suit paired with a whimsical birdcage veil and a small bouquet of calla lilies.
In the images released by the Royal Court, the couple appeared radiant, holding hands in one shot while sharing a tender gaze in another. Leka also gave followers a glimpse behind the scenes by posting a black-and-white photograph showing them walking together, a moment that encapsulated their affection for one another.
Historically, Albania abolished its monarchy in 1946; however, Crown Prince Leka remains the head of the House of Zogu. This marriage marks his second, following his divorce from actress and singer Elia Zharaia in 2024. The former couple were married from 2016 to 2024 and welcomed a daughter, Princess Geraldine, who is now five years old. Their divorce was finalised in April 2024, following the announcement of their separation in January of that year.
The relationship between Leka and Blerta began to gain public attention in September 2024, and it was a year later, in October 2025, when their engagement was officially declared by the Royal Court. This announcement was accompanied by two celebratory photographs of the couple, which conveyed the joy of the occasion to the Albanian public. The engagement celebration took place in Ksamil, a picturesque town in southern Albania, surrounded by close family and friends.
Princess Blerta, now fully immersed in royal duties, has a successful career as a photographer and runs her own business, Blerta C Photography, in Tirana. Since the announcement of their engagement, she and Crown Prince Leka have made numerous public appearances together, showcasing their commitment to each other and their responsibilities as future representatives of the Albanian royal family.
As the couple embarks on this new chapter together, Crown Prince Leka’s marriage to Princess Blerta serves as a hopeful reminder of love and union for the Albanian people. With this union, they have opened a fresh page in the modern history of the Albanian monarchy, creating anticipation for their future in the public eye. This marriage not only signifies personal joy for the couple but also represents a new era for the Albanian royal lineage as they embrace their renewed role in Albania’s cultural landscape.