Sense the dynamic change pulsing through the streets of Tirana as it emerges from the
aftermath of years of ‘anti-revisionist Marxist-Leninism'.
Albania's capital since 1920, this is a city of contrasts. Take in the view
from the top of the Sky Tower Business Center and see centuries-old mosques and
the ultra-modern Cathedral of St Paul. Listen as music from funky Bllok
nightclubs mixes with the evocative call to prayer drifting on the wind past the former
communist ministries.
Background
The influences of many outsiders – including Ottomans, Italians and Soviets
– are still evident in modern-day Tirana. But this is a city still in
constant flux. In the trendy Bllok area, the streets around the former
residence of Enver Hoxha (who ruled Albania through 40 years of isolation) are now
buzzing with trendy bars and restaurants. Elsewhere in the city, previously drab
Soviet-style edifices have been repainted in bright colours. Wide Boulevard
Dëshmorët e Kombit crosses the Lana River connecting Skandeberg
Square with Mother Tereza Square and the Grand Park.
First-time visit
Many of Tirana's more iconic sites are grouped around vast Skanderbeg
Square. Learn about Albania's past at the National History
Museum, its façade dominated by a huge mosaic. Nearby, admire the
35-metre-high 1820s Clock Tower, and adjacent 18th-century Ethem Bey
Mosque. Contrast this with the new Catholic Cathedral of St Paul.
Return visit
Sit at a cafe in the shade of a fig tree and admire the Ottoman Tanners'
Bridge, then enjoy the buzzing atmosphere at a football (soccer) game at the
Qemal Staffa stadium. Learn more about Tirana's ancient history
at the Archaeological Museum. Take a trip out to the ‘museum
city' of Berat on Mount Timori, or Albania's former
capital, Kruja, packed with historical monuments.
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