Gjirokastra Cold War Tunnel: A Journey into Albania's Communist Past
Explore Gjirokastra's Cold War Tunnel: An underground glimpse into Albania's communist past and Enver Hoxha's paranoia.
Delve into Albania's communist history with a visit to the Cold War Tunnel in Gjirokastra. This underground bunker, built in the 1970s, offers a glimpse into the paranoia of the Enver Hoxha regime and its preparations for a potential nuclear attack.
A brief summary to Tunel
- Sheshi Çerçiz Topulli 5, Gjirokaster, 6001, AL
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes as the tunnel has uneven surfaces.
- Bring a flashlight or use your phone's light to enhance your exploration of the dimly lit passages.
- Combine your visit to the Tunnel with a tour of Gjirokastra Castle for a comprehensive understanding of the area's history.
Getting There
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Walking
The Cold War Tunnel is located on Sheshi Çerçiz Topulli, right under the Gjirokastra Castle. From most points in the Old Town, it is easily accessible by foot. Head towards the main square, Sheshi Çerçiz Topulli. The entrance to the tunnel is near the Tourist Information Center.
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Public Transport
If arriving by bus from other cities, the Gjirokastra bus station is located in the new town. From the bus station, you can take a local bus or a taxi to Sheshi Çerçiz Topulli in the Old Town. Walking from the bus station to the square takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Bus fares within the city are inexpensive.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Gjirokastra. You can find them at the River Bridge (Ura e Lumit) and along Bulevardi 18 Shtatori. A short taxi ride from the bus station or other parts of the city to Sheshi Çerçiz Topulli will cost approximately 300-500 ALL. Ensure the driver is using a meter or negotiate the fare beforehand.
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Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Tourist Information Center
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Your gateway to exploring Gjirokastër, a UNESCO World Heritage city. Get maps, tips, and insights for an unforgettable Albanian adventure.
Corner of Bazaar
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Mapo Restaurant
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Hotel Kastro
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Vojsava Restaurant
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Visit Gjirokastra DMC
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Submarine 105
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Bukowksi Bar Gjirokaster
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Stone City Hostel
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Hangover Cocktail Bar
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Bashteja e Teqesë
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Taverna Murgana
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Girokastra
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Shën Sotirit / Saint Sotiri
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Hotel Old Bazaar 1790
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Unmissable attractions to see
The cold war tunnel
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Çerçiz Topulli Square
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Skena e Festivalit Folklorik Gjirokastër
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Lokid T-33
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Kulla e Sahatit
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Nostagia Tunnel
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Gjirokastra Old Town
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Muzeu i Armëve
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Gjirokastër Museum
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Gjirokastra Bazaar
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Qafa e Pazarit
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Castle of Gjirokastra
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Xhamia e Pazarit
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Gjirokastër Obelisk
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Ruins of the Meçite
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Essential places to dine
Restaurant Çajupi
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Restaurant "The Park"
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Sofra Bar Restaurant
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Restaurant Tradicional Odaja
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Restaurant Gjoça Tradicional
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Grill House 13
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Furra Restaurant & Rooms
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Kujtimi Restaurant
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Rrapi Restaurant
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Bon Appetit
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SIMPLE RESTAURANT
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Restorant La Famiglia
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Checkin-Restaurant & Pizzeri
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Rumors Restaurant Lounge
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Taverna Kuka
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Experience Gjirokastra
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Bonna Design
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Mozaik Antik Gjirokaster
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Elinikon
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Edua Gjirokaster
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Tobacco One
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Lulu’s Spot
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Mini market Pazar
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Handmade Eva
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Alma Souvenir
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Artisan Shop
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Aquila Liquori A&N GLAUK
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Jona Souvenir
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Mano handmade
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Soni Photo Video
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O’clock
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The Black Rose Pub
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Grey Stone Bar
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Old Town 13
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Komiteti Bar - Gjirokastër
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Babameto 2 - Cocktail Bar & Restaurant
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Bar Cafè Kotoni
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Gallery Irish Pub
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Bar cafe çoçoli
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Classic Coffee Bar
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Kastro bar
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Bar Center
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Bar Shtaka
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Oazi Bar
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Bar Restorant Gjirokaster Rapi
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