Dental Tourism: The best attractions to see in Tirana
Tirana, the capital of Albania, has been influenced by a multitude of peoples and cultures for centuries. It is a perfect city for a weekend getaway and today, here, you can admire attractions from the Arab and Ottoman periods built near Christian and Western-style buildings, just as you can find completely different flavors in the cuisine.
National History Museum
This museum, inaugurated in 1981, is today the largest and most important in Albania and is located in the main square of the city. On the main facade of the building there is a beautiful mosaic depicting the history of the country, from its Illyrian origins to its nationalistic days.
Inside it is possible to admire over 3,600 artefacts that trace the history of Albania and follow the historical periods: prehistory and antiquity, Middle Ages, national Renaissance and independence and the Chamber of Icons. Particular and interesting is the pavilion dedicated to Communist Terror, which houses images, documents and videos of the persecution suffered by Albanians under the regime.
Inside it is possible to admire over 3,600 artefacts that trace the history of Albania and follow the historical periods: prehistory and antiquity, Middle Ages, national Renaissance and independence and the Chamber of Icons. Particular and interesting is the pavilion dedicated to Communist Terror, which houses images, documents and videos of the persecution suffered by Albanians under the regime.
Scanderbeg Square
Dominated by the large statue dedicated to the Albanian hero Scanderbeg who defeated the Ottomans, this square was the stage of the communist regime for many years. Before it was torn down by the crowd in 1991, next to it there was also the monument dedicated to the dictator Enver Hoxha.
Some institutional buildings overlook the square, including the town hall. In the highest part there is a fountain and the water slides along the floors and makes the colors of the stone paving shine. In the eastern part, however, stands the minaret of one of the oldest mosques in the city, considered one of the most important cultural monuments, which saved it from destruction by the communist regime at the end of the 1960s.
Unfortunately the square is under renovation, some buildings may not be visible and the opening of the museums is not guaranteed, but it is still worth visiting as it represents the heart of Tirana. It is less than a kilometer from the train station (10 minutes on foot). Nearby are the Bunk'Art (200 m), the History Museum (300 m), the National Gallery (400 m) and the Clock Tower (100 m)
Some institutional buildings overlook the square, including the town hall. In the highest part there is a fountain and the water slides along the floors and makes the colors of the stone paving shine. In the eastern part, however, stands the minaret of one of the oldest mosques in the city, considered one of the most important cultural monuments, which saved it from destruction by the communist regime at the end of the 1960s.
Unfortunately the square is under renovation, some buildings may not be visible and the opening of the museums is not guaranteed, but it is still worth visiting as it represents the heart of Tirana. It is less than a kilometer from the train station (10 minutes on foot). Nearby are the Bunk'Art (200 m), the History Museum (300 m), the National Gallery (400 m) and the Clock Tower (100 m)
Clock Tower
Considered one of the main symbols of the city, the Clock Tower, also known as Kulla and Sahatit and visible from almost everywhere, is located in the immediate vicinity of Scanderbeg Square and the Et'hem Bey Mosque. Its construction began in 1821 and was completed thanks to the economic help offered by the wealthiest families in Tirana. In fact, the custom that the richest families reserve a tenth of their annual earnings to finance public or charitable works is part of Muslim tradition.
As a modification to the original design, the Tower was further increased in height by 35 meters in 1928 and the clock from Germany was installed on top.
As a modification to the original design, the Tower was further increased in height by 35 meters in 1928 and the clock from Germany was installed on top.
Et'hem Bey Mosque
Considered the most beautiful Islamic place of worship in all of Albania, the Et'hem Bey mosque dates back to the period 1794-1821 and is one of the best preserved buildings in the country.
Characterized by typical Ottoman architecture, it has a unique style that can be admired in the tower and dome, as well as in the fine decorations present on the outside and inside, which include representations of landscapes and natural elements, unusual in Islamic art. During the communist period it remained closed for years, only to be reopened (without authorization) in 1991 by a crowd of people "armed" with Albanian flags: this protest gesture was the prelude to the fall of the communist regime.
Characterized by typical Ottoman architecture, it has a unique style that can be admired in the tower and dome, as well as in the fine decorations present on the outside and inside, which include representations of landscapes and natural elements, unusual in Islamic art. During the communist period it remained closed for years, only to be reopened (without authorization) in 1991 by a crowd of people "armed" with Albanian flags: this protest gesture was the prelude to the fall of the communist regime.
Pazari i Ri Market
The Pazari i Ri Market is the typical and colorful city market, and takes its name from a neighborhood in the historic center of Tirana. Created in 1931, it was renovated in 2016 and divided into a "green market", covered by a roof that serves to shelter the local fruit, vegetable, cheese and alcohol stalls, and the "fish market" surrounded by walls that welcome fish sellers and meat. However, in this area there are also several cafes and restaurants.
A visit to this market is a must if you are in Tirana, whether you want to shop, but also just if you want to peek and enjoy the daily life of Albanian citizens. If you pass by here on your lunch break, you should know that some fish stalls sell the products to you and cook them for you on the spot so you can enjoy them sitting at the tables located in the pedestrian square a few meters from the stalls.
A visit to this market is a must if you are in Tirana, whether you want to shop, but also just if you want to peek and enjoy the daily life of Albanian citizens. If you pass by here on your lunch break, you should know that some fish stalls sell the products to you and cook them for you on the spot so you can enjoy them sitting at the tables located in the pedestrian square a few meters from the stalls.
Bunk'Art 1 and Bunk'Art 2
In Albania and Tirana there are many bunkers built during the Hoxha dictatorship, to protect themselves in the event of an atomic attack. Two have been transformed into museums and we advise you not to miss them, especially the most recent one.
The other famous one is Bunk'Art 1, an imposing building on the north-eastern outskirts of the city, near the cableway. On 5 floors, with 106 rooms including those of the dictator, today you can follow a museum video tour that tells the story of the Albanian army and aspects of daily life during the dictatorship.
Bunk'Art 2 is the city's newest museum, opened in 2016 and located in the center of Tirana, behind the Ministry of the Interior. This structure built from 1981 to 1986 with a surface area of 1000 m2 and with 2.4 meter thick walls, served to house elite police and ministry personnel in the event of nuclear attacks. Today a historical exhibition has been set up inside with images and objects that illustrate the crimes of the communist persecution of 100,000 Albanians until 1991.
The other famous one is Bunk'Art 1, an imposing building on the north-eastern outskirts of the city, near the cableway. On 5 floors, with 106 rooms including those of the dictator, today you can follow a museum video tour that tells the story of the Albanian army and aspects of daily life during the dictatorship.
Bunk'Art 2 is the city's newest museum, opened in 2016 and located in the center of Tirana, behind the Ministry of the Interior. This structure built from 1981 to 1986 with a surface area of 1000 m2 and with 2.4 meter thick walls, served to house elite police and ministry personnel in the event of nuclear attacks. Today a historical exhibition has been set up inside with images and objects that illustrate the crimes of the communist persecution of 100,000 Albanians until 1991.
Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ
Tirana's original Orthodox Cathedral dates back to 1865, but was destroyed to make way for the construction of the International Hotel. It was thus rebuilt in 2011 and consecrated on 24 June 2012 on the occasion of the anniversary of the consecration of Archbishop Anastasio Primate of Albania and dedicated to the Resurrection of Christ.
The building, the third largest in Europe for Orthodox worship, has a 32 meter high dome and a golden bell tower over 40 meters high. It has a circular shape and the entrance doors are in decorated bronze, while inside several spectacular mosaics represent some religious and historical scenes. Inside the cathedral there is also a small museum, a library, an exhibition hall and an amphitheatre. Practical information: directions, times and prices
The building, the third largest in Europe for Orthodox worship, has a 32 meter high dome and a golden bell tower over 40 meters high. It has a circular shape and the entrance doors are in decorated bronze, while inside several spectacular mosaics represent some religious and historical scenes. Inside the cathedral there is also a small museum, a library, an exhibition hall and an amphitheatre. Practical information: directions, times and prices
House of Leaves - Secret Service Museum
Shtepia and Gjetheve is the so-called house of the Leaves, that is, the Museum of the Albanian Secret Services, located in a 1931 building and built by order of an illustrious doctor. Originally, it had the function of a gynecological clinic but over time it had other purposes; it was occupied by the Nazi Gestapo during the German invasion and then became the headquarters of the investigation services for the security of socialist Albania.
The name House of Leaves is to remember that these not only grew like vines on the walls of the house, but hid the horrors of this place. Furthermore, the leaves recall the rustling of papers, whispered news, the light noise of someone spying in the woods. A cold and disturbing place inside an otherwise anonymous villa, where many innocent citizens, in fact, were spied on, arrested, tried and convicted as well as executed, due to the communist regime.
We recommend a visit to this museum divided into 31 rooms and 9 sectors, where it is possible to view the documents and instruments used by the secret police such as microphones, recorders, cameras and much more. Practical information: directions, times and prices.
The name House of Leaves is to remember that these not only grew like vines on the walls of the house, but hid the horrors of this place. Furthermore, the leaves recall the rustling of papers, whispered news, the light noise of someone spying in the woods. A cold and disturbing place inside an otherwise anonymous villa, where many innocent citizens, in fact, were spied on, arrested, tried and convicted as well as executed, due to the communist regime.
We recommend a visit to this museum divided into 31 rooms and 9 sectors, where it is possible to view the documents and instruments used by the secret police such as microphones, recorders, cameras and much more. Practical information: directions, times and prices.
National Gallery of Art
NB: Unfortunately the Art Gallery is currently closed for renovation and therefore it is not possible to visit it. We will update the guide as soon as we have further news regarding the reopening.
Considered the most important national exhibition, the Art Gallery collects many pictorial works and is one of the Albanian museums with the most international character. Inside it contains over 4,100 works by national and foreign artists covering a period from the 13th to the present day.
Divided into two areas, the main one is dedicated to the permanent exhibition with collections belonging to the period of National Resistance, Independence, anti-fascist resistance, socialist realism and contemporary Albanian art. The other area is more limited and is used for temporary exhibitions of contemporary art.
Among the most important works are the large canvases that illustrate episodes of partisan life and scenes of life in the countryside, construction sites and factories of the Socialist Republic of Albania. In the courtyard behind the building there are statues of Stalin and Lenin, where you can take a souvenir photo of the trip. Practical information: directions, times and prices.
Considered the most important national exhibition, the Art Gallery collects many pictorial works and is one of the Albanian museums with the most international character. Inside it contains over 4,100 works by national and foreign artists covering a period from the 13th to the present day.
Divided into two areas, the main one is dedicated to the permanent exhibition with collections belonging to the period of National Resistance, Independence, anti-fascist resistance, socialist realism and contemporary Albanian art. The other area is more limited and is used for temporary exhibitions of contemporary art.
Among the most important works are the large canvases that illustrate episodes of partisan life and scenes of life in the countryside, construction sites and factories of the Socialist Republic of Albania. In the courtyard behind the building there are statues of Stalin and Lenin, where you can take a souvenir photo of the trip. Practical information: directions, times and prices.
St. Paul's Cathedral
This building at first glance, can be mistaken for a hotel rather than a Cathedral. Built in 2001 and consecrated in 2002, this is perhaps one of the most modern religious buildings in all of Tirana, characterized by very simple exteriors and triangular interiors with a very unique architecture.
The structure of the cathedral is rather particular and fascinating, designed by combining two different geometric figures, a triangle and a circle, which respectively represent the Trinity and the Eternity of God. Carefully observe the drawing that appears on one of the windows, depicting Mother Teresa and Pope John Paul II. This church perfectly mixes the past and the modern, managing to clearly express the strong sense of religiosity of a people who have had to suffer a harsh political struggle of pro-atheism.
In Bul Zhan D'Ark, in the historic center of Tirana. It can be reached on foot from Scanderberg Square (600 m, 5 min). Nearby the National Art Gallery (300 m), the Pyramid of Tirana (450 m) and Bunk'art 2 (500 m)
The structure of the cathedral is rather particular and fascinating, designed by combining two different geometric figures, a triangle and a circle, which respectively represent the Trinity and the Eternity of God. Carefully observe the drawing that appears on one of the windows, depicting Mother Teresa and Pope John Paul II. This church perfectly mixes the past and the modern, managing to clearly express the strong sense of religiosity of a people who have had to suffer a harsh political struggle of pro-atheism.
In Bul Zhan D'Ark, in the historic center of Tirana. It can be reached on foot from Scanderberg Square (600 m, 5 min). Nearby the National Art Gallery (300 m), the Pyramid of Tirana (450 m) and Bunk'art 2 (500 m)
Blloku neighborhood and Sky Tower
The Blloku neighborhood is certainly the neighborhood that most represents the rebirth and renewal of the city. Its lively character makes it the favorite destination for young people, thanks to the trendy restaurants, bars and clubs and shops. The officials of the communist regime once lived here and access to the neighborhood was prohibited to the rest of the citizens, a prohibition clearly highlighted by a security cordon.
To date, the neighborhood excellently represents the desire of Tirana, but also of the whole country, to be an active part of Europe. Center of nightlife and entertainment, it is an ideal neighborhood to stay in for young people, a little less recommended for families!
Here there is also the Sky Tower, a tall skyscraper with a terrace bar and revolving restaurant, which allows you to observe the city at 360°. Inside it also houses a hotel. Open all day, the best time to relax and enjoy the view is at sunset. You go up with a very fast lift and the bar prices, unlike other similar places around Europe, are very affordable.
To date, the neighborhood excellently represents the desire of Tirana, but also of the whole country, to be an active part of Europe. Center of nightlife and entertainment, it is an ideal neighborhood to stay in for young people, a little less recommended for families!
Here there is also the Sky Tower, a tall skyscraper with a terrace bar and revolving restaurant, which allows you to observe the city at 360°. Inside it also houses a hotel. Open all day, the best time to relax and enjoy the view is at sunset. You go up with a very fast lift and the bar prices, unlike other similar places around Europe, are very affordable.
"Deshmoret and Kombit" Boulevard
The Bulevardi Deshmoret e Kombit is a long avenue that runs through the city and leads to the National Art Gallery and is dedicated to Martyrs and Fighters. It passes by many of the main attractions just illustrated and on nice days it is filled with people, both locals and tourists, intent on walking and enjoying the sun.
Designed by architect Gherardo Bosio and built during the Italian occupation of the country, it is one of the most important streets in the city and hosts some important buildings, such as banks and universities.
The avenue is easy to locate, and it intersects with another avenue, Bajram Curri Boulevard, near Rinia Park. You can start walking it from the National Art Gallery.
Designed by architect Gherardo Bosio and built during the Italian occupation of the country, it is one of the most important streets in the city and hosts some important buildings, such as banks and universities.
The avenue is easy to locate, and it intersects with another avenue, Bajram Curri Boulevard, near Rinia Park. You can start walking it from the National Art Gallery.
The Pyramid
This structure is one of the most controversial testimonies of the architecture of the communist period, built in 1988 based on a project by the dictator's daughter, Pranvera, who wanted it as a mausoleum for the eternal rest of her father, Enver Hoxha. The building is built on a series of platforms and stairs that appear to act as a pedestal; the appearance is not random but linked to the idea of power of the Albanian socialist period. Furthermore, if you observe it from above, the pyramid has the shape of a double-headed eagle which is the symbol of the country.
When the dictator's body was transferred (he remained here for only 2 years), the mausoleum was reconverted several times (it was the headquarters of the private TV, then it became a NATO base during the Kosovo war and subsequently a nightclub). Today it is undergoing numerous architectural changes, while maintaining the pyramid shape and will soon host a multifunctional technological center for young people.
It is located at the intersection of Bul Bajram Curri and Dëshmorët e Kombit, 700 m south of Scanderberg Square. It can be easily reached on foot. Nearby the National Gallery (600 m, 7 min), the Castle (500 m, 5 min) and the Sjy Tower (550 m, 6 min)
When the dictator's body was transferred (he remained here for only 2 years), the mausoleum was reconverted several times (it was the headquarters of the private TV, then it became a NATO base during the Kosovo war and subsequently a nightclub). Today it is undergoing numerous architectural changes, while maintaining the pyramid shape and will soon host a multifunctional technological center for young people.
It is located at the intersection of Bul Bajram Curri and Dëshmorët e Kombit, 700 m south of Scanderberg Square. It can be easily reached on foot. Nearby the National Gallery (600 m, 7 min), the Castle (500 m, 5 min) and the Sjy Tower (550 m, 6 min)
Mount Dajti National Park
In the south-east of Tirana there is this green area, with an artificial lake and open-air theatres, ideal for spending a few hours away from the chaos of the city. The Dajti National Park extends over an area of 3,300 hectares and is famous not only for practicing various excursions, but also for admiring a panorama of Tirana; in fact its nickname is natural balcony of Tirana.
Characterized by dense vegetation with forests of pine, oak, beech and plane trees that develop along the Dajt river, in the lower part it is made up of the typical Mediterranean scrub. There is also no shortage of fauna: bears, wolves, foxes, wild boars, hares, eagles and several other species live here.
Characterized by dense vegetation with forests of pine, oak, beech and plane trees that develop along the Dajt river, in the lower part it is made up of the typical Mediterranean scrub. There is also no shortage of fauna: bears, wolves, foxes, wild boars, hares, eagles and several other species live here.
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