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Skënduli House: A Window into Gjirokastër's Ottoman Past

Explore Skënduli House in Gjirokastër: A preserved Ottoman residence offering a glimpse into 18th-century Albanian life and architecture.

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Step back in time at Skënduli House, a remarkably preserved Ottoman-era residence in Gjirokastër. Built in the 18th century and partially restored in 1827, this house offers a glimpse into the lives of a wealthy Albanian family, boasting intricate architectural details and a rich history.

A brief summary to Skënduli House

Local tips

  • Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully explore the house and hear the stories from the owner, Nasip Skënduli.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Ethnographic Museum and Gjirokastër Castle to get a broader understanding of the city's history.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as the streets in the old town are cobbled and can be steep.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Skënduli House is located in the Palorto neighborhood of Gjirokastër's old town. From Çerçiz Topulli Square, walk northeast along Rruga Sokaku i të Marrëve. The house will be on your left. The walk is uphill and takes about 5-10 minutes. There are no costs associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    From Bulevardi 18 Shtatori in the new town, take the local city bus to Sheshi Çerçiz Topulli in the old town for 30 lek. From there, walk northeast along Rruga Sokaku i të Marrëve. The house will be on your left. The walk is uphill and takes about 5-10 minutes.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available throughout Gjirokastër. A taxi ride from the city center to Skënduli House should cost around 300-500 ALL. Provide the driver with the address 'Rruga Palorto'. Confirm the price beforehand or ask the driver to use the meter.

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Discover more about Skënduli House

Skënduli House, nestled in the heart of Gjirokastër, stands as a captivating testament to the city's rich cultural heritage and Ottoman architectural brilliance. Constructed in the 1700s and partially renovated in 1827 by Skënder Skënduli, this house reflects the opulence of one of southern Albania's wealthiest families. The house boasts 64 windows, 44 doors, 12 rooms, and 9 fireplaces. Nasip Skënduli, a descendant of the original family, welcomes visitors and shares captivating stories about the house and its history. The house features intricately carved wooden ceilings, strategically designed guest rooms, and hidden passageways. One of the most exquisite features is the bridal room, adorned with detailed woodwork and vibrant textiles. The Skënduli House offers panoramic views from its terrace. During the communist era, the house was briefly used as the Ethnographic Museum. Today, it has been returned to the Skënduli family, who have preserved most of the rooms with authentic objects, providing visitors with a worthwhile glimpse into the past.

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