Summer Flight Timetable for Flights to Albania
(Version 5 Effective 05 March 2021)
TIRANA
A City with Never-ending Movement and Energy!
Skanderbeg Square
The Skanderbeg Square is the main plaza in the centre of Tirana, Albania. The square is named after the Albanian national hero Gjergj Kastrioti Skënderbeu. The Skanderbeg Monument dominates the square. During the Italian invasion of Albania, the city plan for Tirana was designed by Florestano Di Fausto and Armando Brasini in a Neo-Renaissance style with articulate angular solutions and giant order fascias.
Many buildings including the Tirana International Hotel, the Palace of Culture, the National Opera, the National Library, the National Bank, the Ethem Bey Mosque, the Clock Tower, the City Hall, the Ministry of Infrastructure, the Ministry of Agriculture, the Ministry of Economy, the Ministry of Energy, and the National Historical Museum are situated at the square.
Skanderbeg Square is the epicentre of the capital, surrounded by some of the most important buildings of the country. The space was initially designed in a circular shape by three architects of Mussolini’s Italy: Florentano de Fausto, Gherardo Bosio and Armando Brasini. It was in 1937 that the square was given the name of the Albanian national hero. Only two years ago, it was reconstructed to
OPENING HOURS
Open 24 Hours
ADDRESS
Skanderbeg Square, Tirana
become a pedestrian space. The large square has the interesting shape of a slight pyramid that culminates in its very centre. During the summers, water rushes down its sides to refresh the passers-by.
The square’s namesake, the Skanderbeg Statue is the most dominant object of the square. This masterwork of famous Albanian sculptors, Odhise Paskali, Andrea Mano and Janaq Paço was placed in the city centre in 1968, to commemorate the national hero’s on the 500th anniversary of his death. The clocktower is landmark and symbol of the capital was finally opened for tourists in 1996. Built in 1822, the monument initially housed a bell brought from Venice which chimed every hour. Another Venetian detail is its dome, which highly resembles that of St. Mark’s Bell Tower in Venice. Inside the tower, the 90 steps on a long spiralling staircase take you to its very top, at 35 meters.
The Palace of Culture, a very Soviet style building replaced Tirana’s former Old Bazaar in 1959, at the height of Communism in Albania. It’s first brick was placed by former USSR President Nikita Khrushchev and its last in 1963, when the building was completed. The building houses inside it the National Theatre of Opera and Ballet and the National Library. Tirana is unquestionably the dynamic centre of Albania thanks in part to its lively nightlife, comprised of theatres, restaurants and clubs.
There are a variety of places to entertain you and most of them stay open all night. Bars and clubs can be found throughout town, particularly in the “Blok” area, playing all kinds of live music, including jazz, house, funk, Latin, etc. You can choose to go to the Murphy’s Irish pub or to an American-style bar playing hard rock music. Tirana is home to the Opera House, the National Theatre and many other galleries and museums, which in recent years have hosted many artists and world-famous performers. Tirana also offers a wide range of cocktail bars, where you can enjoy some of the best cocktails while listening to music from the best DJs. Downtown, the Regency Casino invites people out to test their gambling luck.
National Museum of History
The National Museum of History is a historical museum in Tirana, Albania. It was opened on 28 October 1981 and is 27,000 square metres in size. Above the entrance of the museum is a large mural mosaic titled The Albanians that depicts purported ancient to modern figures from Albania's history. The museum includes the following pavilions: the Pavilion of Antiquity, Middle Ages, Renaissance, Independence, Iconography, National Liberation Antifascist War, Communist Terror, and Mother Teresa.
The Antiquity Pavilion retains the most valuable objects from all the Pavilions in the National Historical Museum. Here, an exhibition of around 400 objects from the Bronze Age kicks off Albania’s origin story and highlights the best from the era’s classical art. The pavilion’s undisputed masterpiece is without a doubt the iconic “Beauty of Durrës” mosaic, the oldest mosaic in the country, one that dates back to the 4th century B.C. Multi-coloured pebble stones, in a myriad of shapes and sizes, depict a huge image of a beautiful woman. Another equally iconic masterpiece of the same era is the “Dea of Butrint”.
The Medieval Pavilion split into two halls, exhibits work from a rather lengthy period that spans from the 4th to the 15th century respectively. Most noteworthy is the “Epitaph
OPENING HOURS
June - October, Everyday
09:00-19:00
November - May, Tuesday - Sunday
10:00 - 17:00, Sunday 09:00 - 14:00
ADDRESS
Sheshi Skënderbej 7, Tirana 1001, Albania
of Gllavenica” (from the 14th century), a gorgeous silk piece embroidered in gold thread. Other artifacts here come in the form of traditionally crafted objects, as well as historical Albanian coins and emblems, to name but a few.
Et'hem Bey Mosque
One of the capital’s oldest and most historic monuments, this mosque has also become one of its most visited attractions. The construction of Et’hem Bey Mosque dates to the end of the 18th century. The construction, which took more than 35 years to complete, was started by Mulla Bey and concluded by his son, Haxhi Et’hem Bey, great-grandson of Suleyman Pasha.
An iconic monument, the mosque has marked the centre of the capital for hundreds of years. Regardless of the time elapsed, this structure preserves its former splendor. Nowadays, situated near the equally iconic Clock Tower, the structure lends the mostly contemporary Skanderbeg Square a historic feel. What is very impressive about Et’hem Bey Mosque is that it is one of the few religious objects which was spared by the Communist regime’s anti-religious campaign, a campaign which destroyed many of the country’s historic religious monuments.
The mosque is one of the best-preserved monuments in the country as it is, still retaining its original shape and structure. You may get a wonderful view of it from the heights of the Clock Tower, which gives a wonderful
OPENING HOURS
Everyday
05:30-22:30
ADDRESS
Sheshi Skënderbej, Tirana 1000, Albania
panorama of the entire Skanderbeg Square. The mosque’s architecture is impressive with its arches, minaret, countless windows, large dome, interior halls and painted façade. The walls inside the mosque are all decorated in gorgeous frescoes, typical of the Ottoman period. Its interior halls are illuminated by the many parallel windows placed around the entire construction.
The prayer halls and other interior details reveal masterful wood carvings, which stand in harmony to the natural light that flows inside the entire interior. The portico, or hajati as it is known in the dialect of Middle Albania, is paved in stones which are thought to have come from the mountainous peripheries of Tirana. This spacious portico is the gateway to the interior prayer halls of the mosque. An interior staircase takes you to the dominant grey dome, which stands above the red clay-tiled roof of the structure. The mosque’s lighting at night gives it added visual effects which make it not only photogenic but truly stand out in a square that houses many of the capital’s most important monuments.
Grand Park of Tirana
The Grand Park of Tirana, or the Park on the Artificial Lake, is a 289-hectare public park situated on the southern part of Tirana, Albania. The Park includes an artificial lake and many other landmarks such as the Saint Procopius Church, the Presidential Palace, and memorials to several Albanian personalities.
It remains one of the most relaxing places in the city, despite increasing buildings being developed near the park, an early-morning run or promenade is a daily routines for many citizens. To the southern end of the Park, there is the Zoo and the Botanical Garden. The latter includes many flowers and plants that are common to the Albanian environment. There are almost 120 species of trees, bushes and flowers. The Botanical Garden area is of 14.5 hectares and the lake's size is of 55 hectares, whereas the area of the Park itself is of 230 hectares.
The Park was built between 1955 and 1956 based on a Bulgarian plan and used to be called the Gogo stable, in a green area. The Park starts at the southern end of the Dëshmorët e Kombit Boulevard, after the University of Tirana, south of the main Skanderbeg Square. More than
OPENING HOURS
Open 24 Hours
ADDRESS
Rruga Herman Gmeiner, Tirana 1000, Albania
just a leisure spot, this popular park in Tirana also plays host to some of the country’s most defining memorials. Notably, these memorials commemorate the great names of Albanian literature, as well as those who lost their lives during World War II.
In the valleys surrounding the lake you can see the remains of the Church of St. Procopius, where you the visitor, can get a stunning view of the water. The Open-Air Theatre is another great spot, where regular stage shows featuring talented artists take place.
Bunk’Art 2
The unearthing of this underground tunnel in the centre of Tirana, echoes the uncovering of ancient ruins in any of the world’s most fascinating historical cities. Each discovery like this breathes new life into a city, recalling times past – marking the end of one era, and the beginning of a new. Bunk’Art 2, at approximately 1000 metres squared in size, is the second of two nuclear bunkers in Tirana that has recently transformed into an interactive artistic space.
Located on the main block of ministerial buildings in the city’s centre, this underground shelter was hidden from the public eye until to its recent unveiling in 2015. Secretly built from 1981-86, beneath the Ministry of Internal Affairs along the city’s main boulevard, the underground structure was given the code name ‘Objekti Shtylla’ (Object Pole) in order to keep its construction undetected.
This structure was held as a “great accomplishment” by the Communist regime, which speaks volumes of their overwhelming, and ultimately unnecessary, focus on the protection and isolation of the country from “imperial powers.” In fact, this tunnel represents one of the last installments of Enver Hoxha’s paranoid ‘bunker project’ in Albania during the 1970s. The movement involved the creation of more than 700,000 bunkers across the country,
OPENING HOURS
April-September, Every Day
09:00-21:00
October -March, Wednesday-Sunday
9:00-16:00
ADDRESS
"Sermedin Said Toptani" Street, Tirana
and an even larger underground tunnel at the edge of the capital, which is now Bunk’Art 1.
During the construction of Bunk’Art 2, its dome, which marks the entrance to the museum, was damaged by groups who saw it as a “glorification” of the dictatorship. The decision was made not to repair the damage, and in doing so, cemented its place as part of Albania’s historical memory. The journey through this tunnel unmasks the pathological isolation and paranoia of the long 45-year period. Each of its 24 rooms recount stories of the political persecutions of approximately 100,000 Albanians from 1945-1991, the creation of Sigurimi (the state security) during Communism, and exhibitions showing the state’s means of persecution during this dark period of history.
Kulla e Sahatit
The Clock Tower of Tirana, was built in 1822 in Tirana, Albania by Etëhem Bey Mollaj, a Bejtexhinj poet who also finished the Et'hem Bey Mosque next to the clock tower. It is a monument of culture of first category, approved on 24 May 1948. The stairs have 90 steps that go in a spiral fashion. It is 35 metres tall and was the tallest building in the city at the time.
Since the restoration of 2016, 9,833 visitors were counted, who have visited the tower. The installation of the clock was done by the renowned Tufina watchmakers. The Tufina's took care of the clock from 1822 until 1973 when forcefully removed by the communist regime.
The clock tower was built by the Ottoman Turks in an Islamic style and with simply a bell from Venice to be rung every hour. Ismail Tufina was the first watchmaker of the clock tower in 1822. In 1916 during World War I the clock was damaged. It took until 1928 to put a new mechanism. The new mechanism was purchased in Germany at the price of 13,300 golden francs, which was funded from the wealthiest families in the city and by the Tirana Municipality.
Watchmaker Arif Tufina and his sons installed the new mechanism. Due to the mechanism being bigger than the
OPENING HOURS
Monday-Friday
09:00-16:00
Saturday
09:00-14:00
ADDRESS
Rruga 28 Nëntori, Tirana
actual tower they constructed an extra 5 meters on the tower and a new roof. In 1928, the Municipality of Tirana purchased an actual clock from Germany necessitating a rebuilding of the upper floors. The clock was destroyed by bombardments during World War II and was replaced in 1946 with a Roman numeral clock from a church in Shkodër.
In 1970, the Roman numeral clock was replaced by a Chinese clock. The tower underwent renovation in 1981 and also in 1999. Access to the top of the tower has been available free of charge since 1996. A new restoration is ongoing by The Municipality of Tirana in 2010 for tourists.
Pyramid of Tirana
Indisputably a symbolic landmark of the capital, the Pyramid of Tirana is a relic portraying a turbulent past and an uncertain yet hopeful future. It holds the accolade as the most written about architectural structure in the entirety of Albania. The structure’s controversial past has been recorded by Atlas Obscura and the New York Times, to name but a few, although countless words could be written about its cultural and historical significance for Albania.
In the years following Communism, another fate beckoned for the Pyramid, as it was destined to be demolished. Alas, it still stands on the main boulevard of the city but in quite a sorry state. Perhaps the primary reason for its resilience is that it bore witness to the most tumultuous years of Albania’s history and yet it remains a cultural monument whose disappearance would signal more of a loss than a gain for Tirana and the country.
Currently, the Pyramid and its dilapidated interior but somewhat freshly painted exterior serves as a fitting industrial space for art exhibitions and concerts. Although it was originally intended to be a museum for Enver Hoxha, Albania’s Communist leader during the period of 1944-1985. The construction is not solely monumental, but
OPENING HOURS
Inside Temporarily Closed, Outside still open to visits 24 hours a day
ADDRESS
"Dëshmorët e Kombit" Boulevard, Tirana
one whose flexibility has been tested by time. The Pyramid has somehow remained au courant and architecturally speaking the Pyramid represents the first successful attempt at modern design and construction in the country.
The Pyramid was the brainchild of a team including four Albanian architects, Hoxha’s daughter Pranvera Hoxha, her husband Klement Kolaneci, Pirro Vaso and Vladimir Bregu. From planning to construction, the project took a mere three years to complete. The architects took liberties which, during Hoxha’s strict regime. One of which was the use of “capitalist” materials imported from the United States. The material was used to attach marble tiles on the façade, tiles that were unfortunately removed during the tumultuous period of 1996-1997.
Originally, the Pyramid was topped by a red star, the infamous Communist symbol, which has also now been removed. The Pyramid’s interior was once quite luxurious and multi-functional. The building’s interior floors were designed as mezzanines on different levels, creating an amphitheatre look. The Pyramid initially did open as a museum in 1988, exactly three years after the death of Enver Hoxha, as a posthumous dedication to him. Communism fell shortly after and the Pyramid faced radical changes to its purpose and role in the city of Tirana.
Its once-beautiful white marble edifice and reflective surfaces became a mirror to the condition of the city. During the last few years of Communism, the steps that lead to the Pyramid and the surrounding green area were used as a social spot by the city’s youth who would take the evening stroll, aptly named xhiro, along the boulevard. In 1991 however, the building became a conference centre and its social role slowly faded away. In 1999, the Pyramid took on more of a humanitarian function as NATO set up their headquarters for the duration of the war in Kosovo.
In 2001, the primary TV channel (TOP Channel) set up temporary headquarters inside the Pyramid. The Pyramid has played host to nightclubs and cafes, countless protests and public gatherings. A trend emerged in the last 20 years or so as some of Tirana’s youth like to throw caution to the wind and use the slanted sides of the structure as a slide. Demolition was scheduled in 2011 but the move was heavily protested and fortunately the structure still stands.
A certain melancholy surrounds this opinion-splitting monument, a ruined remnant of an empire that never was. As people walk past the Pyramid on daily commutes to work it is still revered as a representation of a history not to be ignored or forgotten, it’s truly is a must-see in the city.
Bunk’Art 1
The underground bunker, built as a shelter for Hoxha and his government in case of a nuclear attack, was never used for its intended purpose as no such attack ever came to pass. Its construction commenced in 1978 but, with Hoxha’s death in 1985 halting all work towards its completion, the bunker was left in waiting, missing both an entrance and an exit.
After the completion in 2014, the bunker was transformed into a historical museum and art gallery, now known as Bunk’Art. Located in Tirana’s periphery, the bunker runs five stories beneath the surface of Tirana and boasts a total of 106 rooms, all within an incredible 3000 metres squared space. The entrance to this underground palace leads to a lengthy, tall and dimly lit hallway.
The historical exhibitions and artistic installations that lie within, reveal Albania’s history, starting with the Italian debarkation in 1939 and the diplomacies of war during 1941-45. This leads on to the German invasion and Albanian resistance, the dual struggle for power and Albania’s liberation during 1943-44 followed by the post-war period. The countries historical linage culminates with the establishment of the communist regime and its eventual overthrow in 1991.
OPENING HOURS
April- September, Every Day
09:00-18:00
October -March, Wednesday-Sunday
09:00-16:00
ADDRESS
"Fadil Deliu" Street, Tirana
The New Bazaar
The New Bazaar (Pazari i Ri), one of the oldest and most historical residential neighbourhood in the city of Tirana, has undergone renovation and re-invigoration of late. Many of the traditional elements of the old town have been preserved whilst the square has been refreshed with an updated and more modern look.
The name derives from the local farmer’s marketplace situated at the centre, where more than 300 farmers of the surrounding areas come to sell their fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, seafood, and spices to name but a few. The New Bazaar farmers will take the time to proudly let you know about the history of this bustling marketplace. This neighbourhood, belonging to Tirana’s old town, is a hotspot for both locals and tourists.
With countless bars and restaurants serving freshly brewed beers and local cuisine ranging from fast food joints to fine dining, every evening feels like a weekend. Options include the traditional Albanian fast food speciality qofte zgare (grilled burger patties & meatballs shaped like hot dogs) or grab something fishy in the restaurant Merkata e peshkut which conveniently
OPENING HOURS
Public area open 24 hours, shop hours may differ.
ADDRESS
"Shemsi Haka" Street, Tirana
translates to fish market.
Locals tend to finish their shopping during the day and then later gather with friends in one of the many pubs in the area. A mix of old and new that stirs up the spirit of the city, you will find plenty to do as you stroll around the area, browsing the many antique and artisan boutiques.
Ideal for collectors of historical knick-knacks and books. One thing you will notice around here is the sheer volume of bicycles, something rather symbolic to the New Bazaar. The iconic farmers brought their daily harvest here on bicycles and even donkeys until as late as the 1980s.
Tirana Castle
The Fortress of Justinian, known simply as Tirana Castle is the only one found in the city centre. The fortress is where at one time the main east–west and north–south roads crossed, forming the heart of the town as it was then. The castle history dates back prior to 1300. The walls are 6 m high and are a remnant from the Byzantine era. It is located near to Parliament and the Academy of Sciences, not far from Skanderbeg Square. The recently exposed wall foundations have been incorporated into the pedestrianized Murat Toptani Street.
The "Old Bazaar" of the castle is the newest jewel added in Tirana, a great space where modern and tradition meets together. This area serves as a culinary environment for traditional cooking, but also as an area of culture and art.
In this cultural and commercial space there are souvenir shops with a focus on Tirana's history, mosaics, traditional restaurants, etc. To make it more accessible, a new road will be built in the pedestrian service, which will connect it with the “Unaza” and the "Elbasan Street".
Here, citizens and tourists find everything they need to spend their free time with friends and family. The castle gives every visitor the opportunity to Drink quality coffee and various cocktails; Find traditional food, truffle dishes,
OPENING HOURS
Every Day
Resturants 07:00-00:00
Shops 09:00-22:00
ADDRESS
Kalaja e Tiranes, Tirana
fast foods, organic fruit juices, various cakes, candy, including traditional Albanian jelly candy, to the well-cooked seafood products from experienced kitchen chiefs; Enjoy Albanian and foreign wine; Get quality products for yourself and gifts as porcelain items designed as you wish, handicrafts, traditional items, jewellery and silver accessories; Be part of the cultural and artistic events organised by the Castle of Tirana for days and nights to be as pleasant as possible for all visitors and customers.
Dajti National Park
Dajti National Park is a national park established in 1966 in central Albania, spanning an area of 293.84 square kilometres, since 2006. The park is 40 km west of the Adriatic Sea and 26 km east of Tirana. It is adjacent to Shtamë Pass National Park to the northwest, Kraste-Verjon Protected Landscape to the west, and Mali me Gropa-BizëMartanesh Protected Landscape to the east.
The park is marked by an extremely fragmented, rugged topography which creates favourable conditions for a great diversity of ecosystems and biodiversity. The International Union for Conservation of Nature has listed the park as Category II. The park has been recognized as an Important Plant Area of international importance by Plantlife. The area is also known for its traditional restaurants serving local dishes according to the slow food tradition.
During sunset, the high vantage point offers a rare spectacle that is Tirana’s shimmering lights. Enjoy a breathtaking view from the restaurant Ballkoni i Dajtit, where a warm, cabin-like atmosphere awaits you. Enhance the view and your experience by sipping on Albanian wine, and sampling exquisite traditional Albanian food.
OPENING HOURS
Cable Car Everyday, 09:00-19:00
Adventure Park, 09:00-17:30
ADDRESS
Dajti National Park, Tirana
Tanners' Bridge
The Tanners' Bridge is an 18th-century Ottoman period stone footbridge located in Tirana, Albania. The bridge, built near the Tanners' Mosque, was once part of the Saint George Road that linked Tirana with the eastern highlands. The road was the rout by which livestock and produce entered the city. The bridge crossed the Lanë stream near the area where butcher shops and leather workers were located.
The bridge fell into disrepair when the Lanë was diverted in the 1930s. In the 1990s the bridge was restored for use by pedestrians. The Tanners' Bridge was part of the road that connected Tirana with Debar through Shëngjergj, also called Shëngjergj Road (Albanian: Rruga e Shëngjergjit). The road to Debar passed through Priskë e Madhe, Qafe Priskë, Domje, Shëngjergj, and further it continued through Bizë, Martanesh, Zerqan and finally Debar. The road connected Tirana with the eastern highlands, and was mainly used by farmers to bring produce and livestock into the city.
The butchering profession was owned by certain families such as Xheleti, or Kuka families. They were called
OPENING HOURS
Everyday, Open 24 Hours
ADDRESS
Bulevardi "Jean D'Arc, Tirana, Albania
tabakëin Albanian which is the profession that includes both butchering and tanning. The road within the city, a square and also the bridge itself were called Rruga e Tabakëve (English: Tanners' Road).
Kapllan Pasha Tomb
The Kapllan Pasha Tomb is a Muslim Türbe of Albania, located in the centre of Tirana. It is a Cultural Monument of the first category and was so declared by the government of Albania in 1948.
It was built in the early 19th century, with carved stones and has an octagonal shape. The columns are made of stone, and placed also on stone bases and capitals with plant decor on the surface. The former ruler of Tirana was interned here in the 19th century, but was later repatriated back to Istanbul, Turkey.
It stood next to the Sylejman Pasha Mosque, which was destroyed during World War II and. It has recently been restored by the Municipality of Tirana.
OPENING HOURS
Everyday, Open 24 Hours
ADDRESS
8RHC+4MG, Tirana, Albania
National Archaeological Museum
The National Archaeological Museum is the national archaeological museum in Tirana, Albania opened in 1 November 1948. It was the first museum founded after the second World War in the country. It is located on the east of the Mother Teresa Square near the University of Tirana.
This Museum was opened in 1948 and today presents the research of archaeological discoveries in the territory of Albania. It is affiliated to the institute of archaeology of the Academy of Sciences of Albania. The Museum houses exhibits from Prehistoric and Classical times up to the Middle Ages and Modern period. More than 2000 items are displayed, and these items range from ancient jewellery, to Roman statues, to vast clay pots covered in shellfish that have been found during the many archaeological field trips the museum is involved in.
It is also responsible for conducting many archaeological expeditions in the country and is the parent institution of several other museums in the country including the Durrës Archaeological Museum. The Museum also include a library of some 7200 volumes.
OPENING HOURS
Everyday, 09:00-16:00
ADDRESS
Sheshi Nënë Tereza 3, Tiranë 1010
National Arts Gallery
The National Museum of Fine Arts is a national art museum in Tirana, Albania, under the supervision of the Ministry of Culture. It features the work of well-known Albanian artist, such as Sadik Kaceli.
The beginnings of the institution can be traced back to the endeavors of a group of Albanian artists and the Arts Committee of 1946. Pinakoteka was the first institution of fine arts in the country. After much toil and extensive efforts, the Gallery of Arts officially opened to the public in Tirana on 11 January 1954. The gallery worked in two main directions: exhibiting the permanent collection and opening temporary exhibitions of Albanian and foreign artists.
The new visions on the development and display of fine arts, as well as the new acquisitions increased the number of artworks at the gallery's disposal and brought about the need for a larger and more functional new building. The new venue opened on 29 November 1974. It was situated on the "Martyrs of the Nation" Boulevard and it is the existing building where the National Gallery of Arts stands today.
OPENING HOURS
Everyday, 09:00-19:00
ADDRESS
Boulevard "Dëshmorët e Kombit", Tiranë
Palace of Culture
The Palace of Culture of Tirana was built on the Pazari i Vjeter area of Tirana by request of Enver Hoxha. For this construction, both the old bazaar and the historic mosque of Mahmud Muhsin Bey Stërmasi were destroyed under the rulership of the Albanian Labour Party in adherence to the communist country's declaration of state atheism.
The Ottoman mosque had been built from 1837 to 1840 and had a tiled roof as well as a striking minaret with a sherefe. The first stone of the new building was symbolically put by Nikita Khrushchev in 1959. The work was finished in 1963.
The architecture is very similar to many communist era social buildings in Eastern Europe. There have been virtually no renovations to the building since its construction. The Palace of Culture includes the National Library of Albania and the National Theatre of Opera and Ballet of Albania.
OPENING HOURS
Everyday, 08:00-23:00
ADDRESS
Sheshi Skënderbej, Tirana 1000
Enver Hoxha’s villa
Architecturally fascinating and historically mysterious, Enver Hoxha’s villa of residence in Tirana offers yet another glimpse into the mind and secrecy of Albania’s former ruler. The vicinity of the former Block is one of the most fascinating and dynamic quadrants of Tirana.
The surprising combination of modern development amongst the inherited architecture visually represented post-90s, with the city’s communist history and what followed thereafter. During Communism citizens were even too afraid to glance and gaze upon Hoxha’s villa from afar, the entire block around the villa was inaccessible and restricted from regular folk. Enver Hoxha’s Villa was built in the centre of this quadrant on a spacious piece of land surrounded by a light iron fence. Hoxha dwelled in the villa until the final moments of his life, leaving behind a population’s unwavering curiosity.
Built post-1960s, the oldest part of the building mimics 1930s style architecture, whilst the newest part is a colossal concrete block, plastered with white stone tiles, making the villa look like both a place of residence, and a fortified structure. The house has remained exactly as Hoxha’s family left it.
OPENING HOURS
Times Vary, enquire at venue
ADDRESS
"Ismail Qemali" street, Tirana
House Of Leaves: Museum of Secret Surveillance
The Museum of Secret Surveillance, also known as the House of Leaves is a historical museum in Tirana, Albania. It opened on 23 May 2017 in the building that served as the Sigurimi's headquarter during the communist era. The museum is "dedicated to the innocent people who were spied on, arrested, prosecuted, convicted and executed during the communist regime."
The museum is housed in a two-story villa with a courtyard that dates from 1931 and originally served as the first private obstetrics clinic in Albania, while during the German occupation, the building was used by the Gestapo. After the war it was used as the Sigurimi's interception headquarters until the collapse of the communist regime in 1991.
The Museum of Secret Surveillance opened on 23 May 2017. The building is located in the city center. The building is known as the “House of Leaves”, so called because of the clambering plant that covers its facade. It has 31 rooms. The museum was awarded the prize of European Museum of the Year Award 2020 by the Council of Europe.
OPENING HOURS
May- September, Every Day 09:00-19:00
October - April, Tuesday-Saturday, 09:00-16:00, Sunday, 10:00-15:00
ADDRESS
8RG8+MHG, Tirana, Albania
Mother Teresa Square
The Mother Teresa Square is the second largest square in Tirana, Albania. It is named after the Albanian Roman Catholic nun, missionary and nobelist Mother Teresa. The square was planned by the Italian architect Gherardo Bosio, and built together with the main Boulevard in 1939 to 1941, during the Italian occupation of Albania, in a Rationalist style.
When the square was first constructed, it was named Victor Emmanuel III Square in honor of Victor Emmanuel III of Italy. It is located on the north end of the Dëshmorët e Kombit Boulevard and important buildings are situated on this square.
The building include the University of Tirana, the Polytechnic University, the University of Arts, the Archeological Museum and the Centre of Albanological Studies. On 1980 a fountain was placed on the middle of the square and after the Fall of communism in Albania it was named after Mother Teresa and a statue of her was placed on the east side of the square.
OPENING HOURS
Every Day, 24 hours
ADDRESS
Mother Teresa Square, Tirana, Albania
Petrela Castle
Petrela Castle & Village is undoubtedly a local favourite as far as natural city-escapes around Tirana go. Its history dates to Justinian I. Petrelë Castle is 329 metres (1,079 ft) above sea level. The castle of Petrelë has a rich history, containing a tower which was built in the 6th century AD. It is one of the tourist locations close to Tirana that attracts a great number of visitors.
The Castle, the prominent wooden structure is a restaurant, is perched on a rocky hill, above the village with the same name. It has a triangular shape with two observation towers. Although it was first built in ancient times, the present building dates from the 15th century.
The Petrela Castle was part of the signalling and defines system of Krujë Castle. The castles signalled to each other by means of fires. During Skanderbeg’s fight against the Ottomans, the Petrela Castle used to be under the command of Mamica Kastrioti, Skanderbeg's sister. Today there is a restaurant inside the castle. The castle site has views of the Erzen valley, the hills, olive groves, and surrounding mountains Although the castle retains traces of the original surrounding wall and observation towers, it
OPENING HOURS
Every Day, 10:00-22:00
ADDRESS
Rruga Petrelës, Petrelë 1034
has undergone restoration in order to withstand the destructive effects of time.
The castle’s two interior spaces are connected by two open corridors to the main chambers and two small gates, both have been restored to an authentic state. The castle’s interior boasts a restaurant and café, both of which are true to Petrela’s traditional style. Old fashioned shelving, antique household items, handcrafted objects typical of the era and even the food served in the eateries, are inkeeping with the historical splendour of Petrela Castle.
Prezë Castle
The Prezë Castle, Kalaja e Prezës is a medieval castle in the village of Prezë. Constructed on a 277-meter-tall hill, the castle is the former home of a feudal family named the Thopias. Yet, the castle also owes part of its fame to the fact that it once hosted the wedding of Mamica, Skanderbeg’s sister.
While the castle has inspired countless stories and legends, its own history will always be dominated by the golden era of the national hero Skanderbeg’s resistance against the Ottomans. During 1443-1468 it was one of the core strongholds of the Albanian resistance against the Ottomans led by Skanderbeg.
Legend has it that during Skanderbeg’s battles against the Ottomans, the soldiers would use the castle’s walls to secretly communicate via gigantic torches. The construction of this pentagon-shaped structure began in the 14th century and was completed in the 15th. This monument of culture includes the ruins of its former watchtowers in four of its five corners.
The castle has been declared a 'monument of culture'. It
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Prezë Castle
has four towers, one in each corner. The clock tower was erected around 1800–50. It is known for its beautiful location, overlooking the Tirana plain. The olive trees around the village were planted during Skanderbeg’s time as, then, the prince required each local married couple to plant one in honour of their wedding.
This age-old tradition explains why Preza is famous for its olive oil as well as its stone mills, used to process the olives. Unfortunately, only one of the village’s former sixteen mills has survived. The village is also very well-known for its intricate loom works, the specific mechanism of the traditional loom involving a wooden tool called vegjë.
Lake Bovilla
The Bovilla reservoir is a 4.6 square kilometres reservoir in Albania, approximately 9 miles northeast of Tirana and southeast of Kruja, within Mount Dajt National Park. It provides most of the drinking water for Tirana. The reservoir is formed by a dam of the river Tërkuzë, a tributary of the Ishëm. The Tërkuzë has its source to the east of the outer chain of the coastal mountain range, running through the deep Shkallë e Bovillës canyon between Mount Maja e Gomtitit and Mount Mali i Bjeshit.
The dam stands at the entrance to this canyon and is made from local conglomerate, gravel and sand. It is 91 m high and 130 m long. Construction work originally began in 1988, but stopped with the collapse of communism. In October 1993, work was resumed thanks to the support of the Italian state. After the end of construction in 1996, the lake took until 1998 to fill and begin to serve its purpose. The water level varies over the course of the year by 7–10 metres, with the high water mark being reached during the rainy winter months. Measurements from 2006 to 2008 showed the greatest depth was around 45 metres.
The reservoir is located within the Mount Dajt National
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Bovilla Lake
Park, a bit south of Shtamë Pass National Park. The cliff faces around the canyon and the dam offer good climbing prospects. Swimming in the reservoir is forbidden. There were only a few kinds of fish in the lake: the Schneider (Alburnoides bipunctatus) and Barbus carp were the most common. Large numbers of grass carp have been caught by fishermen.
The silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) has been repeatedly introduced to improve the water quality. Nine remote villages with over five thousand inhabitants are scattered in the hills around the reservoir. The inhabitants derive their livelihoods primarily from agriculture. About 400 families had to be resettled in order to create the reservoir. They received compensation for their land, but the movement was still violently opposed.
Bashtova Castle
Positioned on the edge of Via Egnatia, one of the most important trade routes of the Roman Empire, the Bashtova Castle has fascinated the local and international public for centuries. Located a few kilometres from Kavaja, the fivecentury-old castle is a beautiful testimony to the civilizations that have passed through Albania. Interestingly, the castle is the only one in the Balkans to be constructed on a field.
It was declared a monument of the highest category in Albania in both 1948 and 1971 and remains in UNESCO’s tentative list of World Heritage Sites. Bashtova Castle is located near the village of Vilë-Bashtovë, north of the Shkumbin River. It is thought to have been built towards the end of the 15th century, with its western wing reconstructed in the 18th century.
As a result of its proximity to the Adriatic Coast, a spectacularly green landscape surrounds this majestic castle. Venetians used this singular structure as a popular trading center. Subsequently, the Ottoman powers turned into a functional port. Due to this, the castle displays a gorgeous interweaving of both Venetian and Ottoman
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2FWW+MJX, Albania
architectural styles. Build on a vast field near the Shkumbin River valley, the castle has a rectangular shape. Its walls reach approximately 9 meters in height.
Originally, it was most probably a two-story structure with an underground first floor and had a total of seven towers. However, only three of these towers remain, two circular and one rectangular one, as well as the original entrance of the castle. The objects found inside the castle are preserved at the National Museum of History, located in Tirana. A spectacular national park surrounds Bashtova Castle, making it an ideal destination for the lovers of the outdoors. The sheer variety of natural sites here is another element that adds to the unquestionable charm of this place.
Both the popular Spille and Grethi beaches are located within a kilometres of the castle. Shkumbin River is also less than 500 meters away. As such, the hiking, swimming, or fishing opportunities here are limitless. The site has seen a steep rise in popularity as the venue of some of the summer’s hottest events. “Zbulo Bashtovën” (“Discover Bashtova”) is the more traditional, annual event that celebrates the region’s cultural heritage. It aims to put Bashtova on the map and, for this reason, it is free of charge and open to the public.
On the other hand, Bashtova Festival offers an entirely different experience while still promoting the beautiful castle. One of the events of the last few summers, it has an amazing lineup of the best musicians in the region and a huge following.
Shëngjergji Waterfall
Undiscovered by people for many years, and looking like something from a fairy-tale, the Shëngjergji Waterfall is an enchanting place that you too can visit during your trip to Albania. It’s shocking and hard to believe that this wonder was only discovered by the broader public merely two years ago.
Post discovery, the Shëngjergji Waterfall has been frequented by locals and tourists in equal measure. Within its short years of being uncovered, the Shëngjergji Waterfall has become one of the most visited destinations around Tirana. The water is sourced by the Gropa (hole in English) Mountain and in fact in plunges from as high as 30 metres. The Shëngjergji Waterfall is surrounded by an oasis of colourful & lush vegetation, accompanied by stratified rocks that glisten transcendently in the sunlight.
It goes without saying, the view is utterly magical! This view is enhanced by the intake of fresh air, and the silence that encircles the area. These words might ring true as you head to the waterfall, thanks to the surrounding mountains of the Shëngjergji valley, the stunning lake, and the rushing sound of the Erzeni River that closely follows
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your trail. At present, many organised tours can take you to the destination throughout the year. However, you might opt to go it alone, so you can enjoy the natural splendour with less of a group.
Cyclops eye
The Eye of the Cyclops or as it is otherwise called the Cyclops Trail is located about 4 km below Krraba , in the village called Skuterrë, in the valley of the river Erzen. It is about 20 m wide and 120 m deep like a gem hidden in the gorge of Krraba. A small abyss sits at the bottom of the Krraba rocks, and beneath it is a lake of emerald water, which is said to be the place where the beast breathed its last and left behind a heart-shaped lake. In short, this legend speaks of a huge beast (almost all Albanian legends have a giant or a cyclops), which, persecuted by the inhabitants of the area, after much damage it had caused, ended up just below these rocks.
Like all the legends that the body and head have in the imagination, but the legs are firmly rooted in the truth, even in this case, you can see some deep scratches on the rock and the beautiful heart-shaped lake. But the all-natural natural landscape around is no less stunning. A tributary of the Erzen River flows in the form of a small cataract, and together with the numerous rock formations they create a fabulous landscape. In addition to the stunning view it creates the opportunity to swim during the hot summer days.
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Cyclops eye, Tirana, Albania
Cave of Pëllumbas
The Cave of Pëllumbas is a karst cave in central Albania, located in the Skorana Gorge close to the village of Pëllumbas in Tirana County. It lies about 500 m above the Adriatic, on the slopes of Dajti, a mountain chain that rises to an elevation of 1,613 m. The cave is one of among six karstic caves that exist in Europe. The cave has a length of 360 m with a width which can vary between 10–15 m and a vertical range of 45 m.
Despite its small size it is regarded as one of the country's most beautiful caves and attracts numerous visitors. The cave is situated within the boundaries of Dajti National Park and has been recognised as a natural monument of national and international importance by the Ministry of Environment. The importance of the complex is due to the remains of ancient human culture which belongs to the Paleolithic. The cave was inhabited by the extinct cave bear, which lived between 10,000 and 400,000 years ago.
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7X47+PW5, Pëllumbas, Tirana, Albania
