The Cold War Tunnel: Gjirokastra's Underground Secret
Explore Gjirokastra's Cold War Tunnel: An underground glimpse into Albania's communist past and Enver Hoxha's paranoia. A chilling journey into history.
Delve into Albania's communist past at the Cold War Tunnel in Gjirokastra, a secret underground bunker built in the 1970s to protect local officials from potential invasions. Explore its 59 rooms and experience the eerie atmosphere of a totalitarian regime.
A brief summary to The cold war tunnel
- Sheshi Çerçiz Topulli, Gjirokaster, 6001, AL
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking through uneven tunnels.
- The tunnel maintains a consistent cool temperature of around 15 degrees Celsius (59 Fahrenheit) year-round, so dress accordingly.
- Purchase tickets from the tourist information office to the right of the main building (Town Hall).
Getting There
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Walking
The Cold War Tunnel is located in Sheshi Çerçiz Topulli, near the center of Gjirokastra. From the Old Bazaar, walk towards the Municipality building. The tunnel entrance is located next to it, on the main square. It's an easy walk, and you can enjoy the sights of Gjirokastra along the way.
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Public Transport
Gjirokastra has a public bus circuit connecting the old and new town. Take the bus to the city center and get off at Sheshi Çerçiz Topulli. From there, the tunnel entrance is a short walk away, next to the Municipality building. A single bus fare is approximately 30 Lek.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Gjirokastra. Ask your driver to take you to Sheshi Çerçiz Topulli. Taxi fares within the city are inexpensive, but be sure to agree on the fare beforehand. A short taxi ride should cost around 200-300 Lek.
Discover more about The cold war tunnel
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Tourist Information Center
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Your gateway to exploring Gjirokaster's historic sites, cultural gems, and hidden treasures. Get maps, tips, and local insights for an unforgettable visit.
Corner of Bazaar
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Hotel Kastro
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Mapo Restaurant
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Bukowksi Bar Gjirokaster
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Stone City Hostel
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Visit Gjirokastra DMC
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Submarine 105
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Vojsava Restaurant
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Hangover Cocktail Bar
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Bashteja e Teqesë
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Shën Sotirit / Saint Sotiri
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Taverna Murgana
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Girokastra
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Unmissable attractions to see
Çerçiz Topulli Square
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Tunel
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Skena e Festivalit Folklorik Gjirokastër
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Kulla e Sahatit
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Lokid T-33
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Ruins of the Meçite
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Nostagia Tunnel
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Gjirokastra Old Town
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Gjirokastra Bazaar
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Qafa e Pazarit
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Gjirokastër Obelisk
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Muzeu i Armëve
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Gjirokastër Museum
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Xhamia e Pazarit
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Castle of Gjirokastra
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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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Bon Appetit
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Restaurant Gjoça Tradicional
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Rrapi Restaurant
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Restaurant Tradicional Odaja
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Kujtimi Restaurant
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Grill House 13
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Furra Restaurant & Rooms
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SIMPLE RESTAURANT
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Restorant La Famiglia
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Rumors Restaurant Lounge
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Checkin-Restaurant & Pizzeri
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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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Elinikon
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Tobacco One
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Mozaik Antik Gjirokaster
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Mini market Pazar
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Handmade Eva
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Lulu’s Spot
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Alma Souvenir
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Mano handmade
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Aquila Liquori A&N GLAUK
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Artisan Shop
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Jona Souvenir
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
O’clock
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The Black Rose Pub
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Grey Stone Bar
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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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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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