Six months after finalizing his divorce, Crown Prince Leka II of Albania is embarking on a new journey, announcing his engagement to Blerta Celi Bashi. This highly anticipated announcement, celebrated privately in Ksamil, southern Albania, signifies a hopeful new era for the Crown Prince and the Albanian monarchy, emphasizing family values and future aspirations.
The Albanian Royal Court has officially confirmed the engagement of Crown Prince Leka II to his girlfriend, Blerta Celi Bashi, marking a significant and joyous occasion for the royal family and its supporters. This announcement comes just half a year after the Crown Prince finalized his divorce from his first wife, Crown Princess Elia Zaharia, setting the stage for a new chapter in his life and for the future of the Albanian monarchy.
The Joyful Engagement Celebration
The engagement was joyfully celebrated on October 11, 2025, in a private ceremony held in Ksamil, southern Albania. Surrounded by their immediate family and close friends, the couple marked this milestone with heartfelt intimacy. The Albanian Royal Court released a statement sharing their happiness with the Albanian people and extending gratitude for the kind wishes conveyed on this special occasion, as reported by People.
Pictures shared on Prince Leka’s official Instagram page captured the jubilant atmosphere. Blerta Celi Bashi looked elegant in a champagne-colored floor-length gown, while the Prince wore a smart business suit, appropriate for the solemnity and joy of the event. The celebrations were a vibrant blend of tradition and personal joy, setting a positive tone for their future together.
A day after the official announcement, Blerta herself offered a unique glimpse into the preparations for their engagement photoshoot. She posted a captivating reel on her personal Instagram, showcasing behind-the-scenes moments from her hair and makeup session, culminating in a video from the photo call. This personal touch resonated deeply with supporters, offering an intimate perspective on the royal proceedings.
A Royal Romance Unfolds
The relationship between Crown Prince Leka and Blerta Celi Bashi first became public in September 2024, approximately a year before their engagement. News reports confirmed their relationship around the end of 2023, shortly before they were spotted traveling together outside Albania. Their public debut at an official event in September 2024 solidified their status as a couple.
Just a month prior to their engagement announcement, Blerta joined the Prince for her first official engagement. This significant appearance was during a visit to the Queen Géraldine Foundation, an organization dedicated to championing educational initiatives and philanthropic work across Albania. For this occasion, Blerta presented an effortlessly elegant and stylish image in a white shirt and dark-wash jeans, showcasing her poised integration into royal duties.
The announcement of their engagement, coming precisely six months after the finalization of Leka’s divorce in April 2025, highlights a swift but heartfelt progression in their relationship, signaling a new era of stability and hope for the Albanian royal household, as noted by Hello! magazine.
Leka’s Previous Chapter: Divorce from Elia Zaharia
Before his engagement to Blerta Celi Bashi, Crown Prince Leka II was married to actress Elia Zaharia. The couple tied the knot in 2016 and welcomed their daughter, Princess Geraldine, who is now four years old. However, in January 2024, the Prince announced on social media that he and Elia had mutually decided to end their marriage after eight years, with the divorce becoming official in April 2025.
In his public statement regarding the separation, Prince Leka emphasized that despite the end of their marriage, the well-being and upbringing of their daughter, Geraldine, remained their primary priority. He stressed that values of mutual respect and understanding would continue to form the basis of their co-parenting relationship for their daughter’s growth and education.
Addressing the March 2024 Incident
The period surrounding the separation was not without public scrutiny. In March 2024, a controversial video depicting a family conflict garnered significant media attention. Prince Leka later addressed the incident, expressing his regret over the video’s public release and denying narratives that alluded to betrayal in his relationship with Blerta.
During an interview on “Mirembrë Ma Yje,” the Prince clarified that his separation from Elia Zaharia had occurred in phases, beginning with an emotional detachment, followed by a period of physical distancing within the same home. He stated that the March 2024 incident, while damaging to their public image, did not alter the core figure of the royal family. He also claimed that the situation involved external pressures and maintained that Princess Geraldine was the only victim of the unfortunate public spectacle. He confirmed that he no longer has contact with Elia but wishes her well as they co-parent their daughter.
Looking to the Future: Continuity and Dedication
As the head of the Albanian royal family, Crown Prince Leka II’s engagement to Blerta Celi Bashi signifies more than just a personal milestone; it represents a commitment to the continuity and modernization of the Albanian monarchy. The royal court’s official announcements consistently underscore the importance of family values, mutual respect, and dedication to the Albanian people.
Blerta Celi Bashi’s growing involvement in royal activities, evidenced by her participation in initiatives like the Queen Géraldine Foundation, suggests a proactive and engaged role in the future of the royal household. Her presence and contributions are expected to bolster the philanthropic and cultural endeavors associated with the Albanian royal family, bringing fresh energy to its public presence.
A Fan-Centric Perspective: Hopes for Stability and Progress
For the loyal followers and admirers of the Albanian royal family, this engagement brings a sense of renewed hope and anticipation. The journey of Crown Prince Leka, from the public announcement of his separation to finding new love and commitment, has been closely watched. The emphasis on stability, the well-being of Princess Geraldine, and the Prince’s dedication to his duties resonate strongly within the community.
The engagement of Prince Leka and Blerta Celi Bashi is viewed by many as a positive step forward, symbolizing resilience and the enduring spirit of the Albanian monarchy. Fans eagerly anticipate seeing the couple embark on their life together, contributing to Albania’s cultural landscape and upholding the traditions that define the royal family.
