Skënduli House: A Window to Ottoman Gjirokastra

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Explore Skënduli House in Gjirokastra: An Ottoman-era gem offering a glimpse into 19th-century Albanian life and architecture.

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Skënduli House

Step back in time at Skënduli House, a remarkably preserved Ottoman-era residence in Gjirokastra. Built in 1823, this house offers a glimpse into the lives of a wealthy Albanian family with its intricate architecture, original artifacts, and captivating stories shared by the Skënduli family descendants.

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 Skënduli family members who provide guided tours; their personal stories enhance the experience.
Allocate at least an hour to fully appreciate the house's architecture, artifacts, and historical significance.
Photography is allowed in most rooms, but check for restrictions, especially in the wedding room.

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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 Sokaku i te Mareve. The house is a short walk from the Ethnographic Museum. The walk involves navigating cobblestone streets and a moderate incline.
Public Transport

Local buses connect the new and old towns. Take the bus from Bulevardi 18 Shtatori to Sheshi Çerçiz Topulli. From there, walk north along Rruga Sokaku i te Mareve. Bus fare is approximately 30 lek.
Taxi

Taxis are available throughout Gjirokastra. A taxi from the lower town to Skënduli House will cost approximately 300-500 lek. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. Taxis can drop you off near Çerçiz Topulli Square, from where you can walk to the house.

Discover more about Skënduli House

Skënduli House, nestled in the heart of Gjirokastra, stands as a captivating testament to the city's rich history and architectural heritage. Constructed in the 18th century and partially restored in 1827, this Ottoman-era house provides a unique glimpse into the lifestyle of a wealthy merchant family. The Skënduli family's prosperity is reflected in the house's impressive features, including 64 windows, 44 doors, 12 rooms, and multiple fireplaces.Visitors are welcomed by descendants of the Skënduli family, who share captivating stories about the house and its history. The house boasts intricate wooden ceilings, strategically designed guest rooms, and hidden passageways that evoke a sense of mystery and intrigue. The bridal room, adorned with vibrant textiles and woodwork, offers a glimpse into the cultural heritage of Gjirokastra.Skënduli House served as the original Ethnographic Museum during the communist era before being returned to the Skënduli family. Today, it remains a living museum, showcasing authentic objects and providing insights into the traditions and daily life of 19th-century Gjirokastra. A visit to Skënduli House promises an unforgettable journey into Albania's past.