Tirana National Historical Museum (Muzeu Historik Kombëtar)
The Basics
With exhibition halls dedicated to the eras of antiquity, the Middle Ages, Renaissance, national liberation, communism, and more, the National Historical Museum offers a comprehensive overview of Albanian history throughout time. Make sure to stop at the exhibition dedicated to Mother Teresa.
Small-group walking tours visit the National Historical Museum, and it is a popular stop on day tours of the city. Tours often also visit the Pyramid of Tirana, Skanderbeg Square, the Clock Tower, Ethem Bey Mosque, and the Presidential Palace.
Things to Know Before You Go
While most of the exhibitions have English-language display text, a few do not.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the museum.
This is a must-visit for history buffs.
How to Get There
The National Historical Museum is located in Skanderbeg Square, close to many bus lines and easily reached on foot from most places in the city center. If you don’t want to walk, you can also take a taxi. For convenience, book a tour that includes round-trip transportation to the museum.
When to Get There
The National Historical Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday. It opens and closes earlier on Sundays. Arrive early in the day to beat the crowds, as the museum and the surrounding area can get busy in the afternoon.
The Albanians Mosaic
A striking mosaic in the socialist realism style is installed above the entrance to the National Historical Museum. In 1980 five local artists created the work, depicting the turbulent history of Albania. It covers the country’s history from the Roman Empire through the Communist era. In 1990, after the fall of Communism, the mural was modified to remove a red star.