Skënduli House, Delvina Travel Guide

4.5 (451)

Step back in time at Skënduli House, a beautifully preserved Ottoman mansion offering a glimpse into Gjirokastra's rich history and culture.

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Skënduli House

Skënduli House, a remarkably preserved Ottoman-era residence in Gjirokastra, offers visitors a captivating glimpse into 18th and 19th-century Albanian life. Built by the wealthy Skënduli family, this architectural gem showcases intricate craftsmanship and provides insights into the traditions and customs of the period.

A brief summary to Skënduli House

34GP+46R, Rruga Palorto, Gjirokaster, AL
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Monday 9 am-7 pm
Tuesday 9 am-7 pm
Wednesday 9 am-7 pm
Thursday 9 am-7 pm
Friday 9 am-7 pm
Saturday 9 am-7 pm
Sunday 9 am-7 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Skënduli House.

Engage with the owner, Nasip Skënduli, or a family member, as their stories and insights greatly enrich the visit.
Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and capture the best light for photographs.
Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Ethnographic Museum and Gjirokastra Castle for a comprehensive historical experience.

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Getting There

Walking

Skënduli House is located in the Palorto neighborhood of Gjirokastra's old town. From Çerçiz Topulli Square, walk north along Rruga Palorto. The house will be on your left, a short walk from the Ethnographic Museum. The walk is uphill on cobblestone streets, so wear comfortable shoes. No costs are associated with walking.
Public Transport

If arriving in Gjirokastra's new town, take the local city bus from Bulevardi 18 Shtatori to Sheshi Çerçiz Topulli in the old town. From there, follow the walking directions. A single bus fare costs approximately 30 lek. Alternatively, a taxi from the new town to Skënduli House will cost around 300-500 lek.

Discover more about Skënduli House

Skënduli House, constructed in the 1700s and partially restored in 1827, stands as a testament to the architectural traditions of Gjirokastra. This three-story mansion, once home to the prominent Skënduli family, boasts features that reflect their wealth and status, including 64 windows, 44 doors, 12 rooms, and multiple fireplaces.Visitors can explore the house's interior, where many rooms remain in their original state, adorned with authentic objects and intricate wood carvings. The main guest room, or oda, is particularly noteworthy for its decorated ceiling and wooden poles. The house also features unique elements such as an internal and external staircase. During the communist era, the house was briefly used as the city's Ethnographic Museum. Today, descendants of the Skënduli family welcome visitors and share stories about the house's history and significance.A visit to Skënduli House offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the opulence and lifestyle of a wealthy Gjirokastrian family. The house's architecture, combined with its historical artifacts and family stories, provides a rich and immersive cultural experience.