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Skënduli House: A Gjirokastër Time Capsule

Discover Ottoman-era opulence at Skënduli House, a meticulously preserved architectural gem in Gjirokastër's historic heart. A journey into Albania's rich past.

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Step back in time at Skënduli House, a beautifully preserved Ottoman-era home in Gjirokastër. Explore the intricate architecture, traditional furnishings, and fascinating stories of a wealthy Albanian family from the 18th century.

A brief summary to GJIROKASTER, Skënduli House

  • 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

Local tips

  • Allow at least an hour to fully explore the house and hear the stories from the owner.
  • Visit during the warmer months to see the courtyard in full bloom.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Ethnographic Museum and Gjirokastër Castle.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Skënduli House is located in the old town of Gjirokastër. From the Gjirokastër Ethnographic Museum, walk approximately 100 meters along Rruga Palorto. The house will be on your left. Be prepared for steep, cobbled streets.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Gjirokastër. A short taxi ride from the city center to Skënduli House should cost around 200-500 Lek. Ask the driver to take you to Skënduli House in the Palorto district.

  • Driving

    If driving, be aware that parking in the old town can be challenging. There is underground parking available for approximately €2 for 3 hours. From the parking area, walk uphill along the cobbled streets to Rruga Palorto. Limited free parking may be available closer to the house, but the roads are steep and narrow.

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Discover more about GJIROKASTER, Skënduli House

Skënduli House offers a captivating glimpse into the life of a wealthy family in Gjirokastër during the Ottoman period. Built in the early 1700s and partially rebuilt in 1827, this traditional Gjirokastër home stands as one of the city's most authentic buildings. The house boasts impressive architectural details, including 64 windows, 44 doors, 12 rooms, 9 fireplaces and even 4 hamams (Turkish baths). The number of fireplaces signified the wealth of the family. Explore the furnished rooms and discover a realistic look at life in the past with carpets, textiles, and furniture from the 19th century. One unique room was dedicated solely to wedding ceremonies and features 15 stained glass windows. The house has been lovingly restored and has been in the Skënduli family for generations, except for a brief period during communist rule. Often, a member of the Skënduli family, like Nasip Skenduli, will personally guide you through the home, sharing stories about the house and its preservation. Skënduli House is near the Ethnographic Museum.

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