Albanian genetic ancestry

Recent advances in applied biocomputing and population genetics have made it possible to reconstruct historical population processes using Y-chromosomal data. This study presents the results of the Albanian DNA Project “Roots,” based on 1,322 voluntarily submitted Y-chromosome samples from Albanians across all Albanian-inhabited regions. By comparing modern paternal lineages with ancient DNA from the Balkans and Europe, as well as with contemporary populations, the study reconstructs the temporal and geographic origins of Albanian paternal ancestry. Statistical analysis shows that approximately ten haplogroups account for 94.6% of Albanian paternal lines. The findings indicate three major demographic phases: a minor Neolithic component (under 4%) linked to early agricultural expansions; a dominant Bronze Age–Antiquity component (around 72–77%) associated with ancient Balkan populations such as the Illyrians, Dardanians, and related tribes; and a later contribution (16–19%) dating to Late Antiquity and the Early Middle Ages, reflecting Germanic, Slavic, and other migrations. Overall, the results support strong genetic continuity between modern Albanians and ancient Balkan populations, despite later admixture events.