Hand-in-hand as they celebrate their first moments as man and wife, Crown Prince Leka II of Albania and his bride Princess Blerta smile with joy as they pose for an official photograph. The royal couple exchanged vows in a private ceremony attended by just their closest family and friends last week, later moving to the historic Chateau Apponyi in nearby Slovakia to take their beautiful wedding pictures, which we reveal here for the first time.
In an exclusive interview with Prince Leka, the current head of the House of Zog, the royal family of Albania, he confessed his bride took his breath away when he saw her for the first time on their wedding day. "Blerta was breathtakingly beautiful," the Prince, 43, told HELLO!. "Let’s say that I could not stop looking and I felt completely overwhelmed."
© Oborri Mbreteror Shqiptar/DNphotEmotional moments
And the Prince, the only grandchild of the late King Zog and Queen Geraldine of Albania, continued that the most emotional moment of the day came when they exchanged rings. "Seeing Blerta’s reaction as she looked at her wedding ring, and sharing that same feeling as we placed the rings on each other’s hands, was moving," he said. "Especially, as we decided to give each other the rings. Blerta chose mine and I, hers."
For the wedding, Princess Blerta wore two outfits, both designed by Diana Qerimi from Kosova and inspired by Queen Geraldine’s gown. Princess Blerta also opted to wear the historic royal tiara of Albania during part of the day, although photographs capturing that look have not yet been released. According to the groom, the outfits were "defined by simplicity, refinement, and subtle Albanian elements in silk and gold. The bouquet followed the same philosophy, composed of delicate Dutch tulips, perfect for the photoshoot." After the couple were declared man and wife, guests celebrated with a small dinner and intimate reception, organised by local company, Sara Event, which produced floral arrangements in soft tones.
© Oborri Mbreteror Shqiptar/DNphotAt the dinner, the bride and groom both delivered short speeches to their intimate group of guests. "Only our closest family members and a small circle of dear friends were present," the Prince revealed. "Blerta decided that her brother-in-law Erinold Hasanago would be her witness and my cousin Odin Libohova would be my witness." The Prince’s daughter from his first marriage, Princess Geraldine, five, also played a central role. "She was at the heart of the day," he said. "She did not join us in Apponyi but her presence in Albania brought a sense of joy and innocence that made the moment even more meaningful for us as a family. During the dinner she was joined by Blerta’s niece and nephews, making it an array of fun."
© Oborri Mbreteror Shqiptar/DNphotographyA historical setting of significance
The Prince and Princess opted to officially record their big day at Chateau Apponyi in nearby Slovakia as it holds huge historical meaning. Queen Geraldine was born into the Apponyi family in 1915 and the chateau, now a hotel, was her family seat for six centuries. "This setting holds particular significance, as it is closely linked to my grandmother, Queen Geraldine of the Albanians, who came from a distinguished Hungarian aristocratic family," the Prince said. "Being able to honour that legacy added a symbolic dimension to our celebrations.… [This was] a quiet but powerful beginning to this new chapter together."
"Blerta was breathtakingly beautiful. Let’s say that I could not stop looking and I felt completely overwhelmed."
While visiting Slovakia, they also took the opportunity to pay homage to the Prince’s ancestors by visiting locations dear to his family, including his great-grandfather’s historic Apponyi library. They were also keen to celebrate the historical bond between Slovakia and Albania. "A particularly symbolic moment was the planting of an oak Tree of Peace in the castle park, reflecting a commitment to continuity, remembrance, and cultural dialogue. These moments made our time in Slovakia far more than a photographic setting, it became a meaningful tribute to history, heritage, and the values we carry forward."
The newlyweds got married just five months after they got engaged, with both keen to exchange vows quickly. "From the moment we announced our engagement, we both felt that marriage was the natural next step," the groom explained. "Our decision was grounded in mutual confidence, clarity, and a shared vision, so there was no reason to prolong the engagement."
© Oborri Mbreteror Shqiptar/DNphotographyAnother wedding celebration
They now hope to celebrate with more family and friends at a bigger gathering and are considering timing it with the 100th anniversary of the Albanian monarchy, which will take place in Tirana. After taking a honeymoon – nothing has yet been booked but Blerta has asked her husband to find somewhere "with a warm tropical climate, with a beach and lots of fresh fruit, as she is a vegetarian," – they hope to welcome more children.
"Family is central to our lives, and I do hope that our family will grow," he said. "We hope to build a life grounded in love, respect, and shared responsibility. Beyond our personal happiness, we also feel a strong sense of duty, to support one another, to honour our heritage, and to serve our nation with dedication and integrity."
© Oborri Mbreteror Shqiptar/DNphotHe added that he and his new wife were 'deeply touched' by the 'warmth and generosity' of the messages of goodwill they had received. "The support of the Albanian people means a great deal to us. we have received many kind wishes from friends across royal families and international circles, which we deeply appreciate."
