Zekate house & outdoor cozy bar, Devoll Travel Guide

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Explore the Zekate House in Gjirokastër: A stunning example of Ottoman architecture with panoramic city views and rich historical insights.

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Zekate house & outdoor cozy bar

Zekate House, built in the early 19th century, stands as one of Gjirokastër's most prominent Ottoman-era tower houses. Offering a glimpse into the lives of wealthy Albanian families, its architecture and panoramic views make it a must-see attraction.

A brief summary to Zekate house & outdoor cozy bar

Rruga Bashkim Kokona, Gjirokaster, AL
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Monday 7 am-11:30 pm
Tuesday 7 am-11:30 pm
Wednesday 7 am-11:30 pm
Thursday 7 am-11:30 pm
Friday 7 am-11:30 pm
Saturday 7 am-11:30 pm
Sunday 7 am-11:30 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Zekate house & outdoor cozy bar.

Wear comfortable shoes, as the streets leading to the Zekate House are steep and cobbled.
Visit during the late afternoon for the best lighting for photos and to enjoy the sunset views.
Check with locals regarding opening hours, especially during the off-season.

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Getting There

Walking

From the Old Bazaar, follow the signs towards Hotel Kalemi. Continue zigzagging uphill, passing the Ethnographic Museum. The Zekate House is located at the top of the Palorto quarter. The walk is steep and takes approximately 10-15 minutes. There are no costs involved.
Public Transport

Take the public bus that connects the new and old town. The bus operates regularly throughout the day. Get off at the stop closest to the Ethnographic Museum and walk uphill for about 5 minutes. A single fare costs approximately 30 lekë.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Gjirokastër. A taxi from the city center (e.g., near the roundabout) to Zekate House costs approximately 300 lekë. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting the journey.

Discover more about Zekate house & outdoor cozy bar

The Zekate House, also known as Kulla e Zekateve, is a historical mansion located in Gjirokastër, Albania. Constructed in 1811-1812 for Beqir Zeko, a local administrator under Ali Pasha, it exemplifies Ottoman architecture and the Tosk style of southern Albania. This grand three-story structure served as both a residence and a social hub for the Zekate family.The house features two fortified towers and a double-arched facade. The ground floor, or *katoqi*, was used for storage. The first floor housed the family's living quarters, while the top floor contained a grand reception room and smaller, ornate chambers. The audience room, located between the towers, is particularly striking, adorned with colorful floral patterns and tinted windows.Visitors can explore the house's well-preserved interiors, including the wooden staircase, carved ceilings, and detailed frescoes. The house offers panoramic views of Gjirokastër, including the castle and Drino Valley. The Zekate House is a testament to Albania's rich cultural heritage and architectural legacy.