Kosovo: flag, capital, currency and history

Kosovo, officially the Republic of Kosovo, is a partially recognised state in Southeast Europe, Europe. Its capital is Pristina. The currency is the Euro. Languages spoken include Albanian and Serbian.

Quick facts about Kosovo

Official name: Republic of Kosovo
Capital: Pristina
Region: Europe, Southeast Europe
Currency: Euro (EUR, €)
Languages: Albanian, Serbian
Calling code: +383
Internet domain: .xk
Area: 10,908 km² (4,212 sq mi)
Land borders: Albania, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia
Demonym: Kosovar
National day: Independence Day, February 17

Flag of Kosovo

Download the flag of Kosovo as a scalable SVG or as a PNG in three sizes. The flag emoji is 🇽🇰.

SVG (vector)

History of Kosovo

The area of Kosovo was home to the ancient Dardani and later formed part of the Roman province of Moesia. In the Middle Ages it lay within Serbian and Byzantine realms before Ottoman rule followed the Battle of Kosovo in 1389. Serbia took the region during the Balkan Wars of 1912-13, and it later became part of Yugoslavia. Armed conflict in 1998-99 ended with a NATO intervention and UN administration. Kosovo declared independence in 2008; its status remains disputed, and it is recognised by some states but not others, with Pristina as its capital.

Key dates

1389The Battle of Kosovo is fought between Ottoman forces and a Serbian-led coalition.
1912Ottoman rule ends in the region during the First Balkan War, and Serbia takes control.
1945Kosovo becomes an autonomous area within Serbia in socialist Yugoslavia.
1974A new Yugoslav constitution grants Kosovo wide autonomy within Serbia.
1999A NATO air campaign ends the Kosovo War, and the UN establishes an interim administration.
2008Kosovo's assembly declares independence on 17 February; recognition remains divided.

A short overview, not a full history. Dates are given for well-documented events only.