Is Solana a layer 1?

I've been hearing a lot about Solana recently, and I'm trying to understand its position in the blockchain ecosystem. Could you clarify for me if Solana is indeed a layer 1 blockchain? It seems to have some unique features, but I'm not quite sure how it fits into the broader hierarchy of blockchains. Is it comparable to other layer 1 solutions like Ethereum or Bitcoin, or does it occupy a different niche? Your expertise in this area would be invaluable for helping me gain a clearer understanding.