Oda (Albania)

Oda is a typical large room in an Albanian traditional house used by the host to receive and entertain the guests.

Till the end of the 20th century, women and young boys were not allowed to enter the room.

In the oda, the men talk, take political discussions and sing epic songs until late hours.

During an oda "session", historical events and traditions are transmitted orally through discussions and songs.

In Yugoslavian Kosovo many odas were transformed into classrooms and home-schools to resume and conserve Albanian education.