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Gjirokastër Tourist Information Center
The Cold War Tunnel: A Journey into Albania's Communist Past
Explore Gjirokastra's Cold War Tunnel: A subterranean journey into Albania's communist past, revealing secrets of a bygone era.
Delve into Albania's secretive past at the Cold War Tunnel in Gjirokastra, a vast underground bunker built in the 1970s. Explore its 59 rooms and discover the eerie atmosphere of a bygone era, reflecting the paranoia of the communist regime.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to The cold war tunnel
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Sheshi Çerçiz Topulli, Gjirokaster, 6001, AL
Monday
9 am-6 pm
Tuesday
9 am-6 pm
Wednesday
9 am-6 pm
Thursday
9 am-6 pm
Friday
9 am-6 pm
Saturday
9 am-6 pm
Sunday
9 am-6 pm
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Getting There
Walking
The Cold War Tunnel is located at Sheshi Çerçiz Topulli, a central square in Gjirokastra. From the city center, head towards the square; the tunnel entrance is near the Town Hall. The walk is easy, but be prepared for cobblestone streets.
Public Transport
Take a local bus to Gjirokastra. From the main bus station, it's a 10-15 minute walk to Sheshi Çerçiz Topulli. Follow signs towards the city center and the tunnel. Be prepared for some uphill walking. A bus ride within the city costs around 30 lekë.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Gjirokastra. A taxi from the city center to the Cold War Tunnel at Sheshi Çerçiz Topulli should cost approximately 300-500 ALL. Agree on the fare before starting your journey.
Local tips
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Wear comfortable shoes, as the tunnel floors can be uneven.
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Visit during the weekdays to avoid larger crowds.
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Tours are approximately 20 minutes long and start on the hour.
Discover more about The cold war tunnel
The Cold War Tunnel in Gjirokastra offers a chilling glimpse into Albania's communist past. Built in the 1970s under the direction of Enver Hoxha, Albania's paranoid dictator, the tunnel served as a secret bunker for the city's elite in case of a foreign invasion or nuclear attack. Kept hidden from the public for decades, it wasn't until the 1990s that its existence was revealed.The 800-meter-long labyrinth features 59 rooms, each with a specific purpose. Visitors can explore government offices, interrogation rooms, sleeping quarters, and even a decontamination chamber. Original equipment and furnishings remain, providing an authentic, if unsettling, experience. The tunnel is in its original state, making it less informative but much more atmospheric and genuine.A visit to the Cold War Tunnel offers a unique perspective on Albania's history and the impact of the Cold War on this small nation. It's a reminder of a time when the world was divided and the threat of nuclear war loomed large.
A brief summary to The cold war tunnel
Use The cold war tunnel as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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