Albania
DESTINATIONS
Old Communist Regime relics have become
popular tourist attractions and are a severe reminder of the recent
past. Street signs are still up and coming as tourism develops
here. If you ask a local for directions they are given in terms
of landmarks. The addresses listed in this guide are often street
names only –building numbers do not exist universally here.
Skanderbeg Square
The social and cultural center of Tirana, this is an excellent place for people watching and absorbing the daily life of the denizens of this city. The famous Equestrian Statue is located on the Southern Side of the Square.
Address: Sheshi Skenderbej
Central Market
A gourmet food haven, which captures the spirit of the culture. Local cheese, meat. fruit, honey and homemade raki can be found. A spectacular place to stroll, nibble local food and absorb the vitality of Albanian life.
Address: Pazari I Ri Phone: +355(0)4 2 25 287
Clock Tower
The tower is the symbol of Tirana and is nicely lit at night. You may climb the stairs for an excellent view of the bustling life in the square below.
Address: Kulla e Sahatit; Luigi Gurakqi Phone: +355(0)4 2 43 92
Ethem Bey Mosque
This small, elegant mosque is
one of the oldest buildings remaining in the Tirana. Many of the various
religious shrines were destroyed in the atheism campaign and demonstrations
of the late 1960’s.
Address: Sheshi Skenderbej Phone:
+355(0)4 2 23 701
Tanners Bridge
A newly restored, elegant Ottoman
stone footbridge, with colorful Soviet style housing serving as a backdrop.
Address: Punetoret e Rilindjes,
intersections with Blvd Zhan D’Ark
National Museum Of History
The largest museum in Albania
holds most of the country’s treasures. There is a gallery on
the top floor dedicated to the severe miseries of the communist era.
Address: Muzeu Kombretar; Skanderbeg
Square Phone: +355(0)4 2 28 389
Archaeological Museum
An extensive collection of interesting
archaeological artifacts from various historic periods.
Address: Muzeu Arkeologik; Sheshi
Nen Tereza Phone: +355(0)4 2 28 389
International Centre Of Culture
Popularly known as the Pyramid,
this museum opened in 1988 was a tribute to the Albanian dictator Enver
Hoxha when it was erected. After the regime collapsed, the memorial
was converted into a disco and conference center. It is no longer an
official museum but is well worth a look.
Address: Blvd. Deshmoret e 4
Shkurtit
Prime Minister’s Residence
Once was the Communist Party
headquarters. During official parades and demonstrations this is where
Enver Hoxha would have stood to wave to the masses below.
Address: Blvd. Deshmoret e Kombit
Fortress Of Justinian
The last remnants of a Byzantine
castle.
Address: Murat Toptani