The Cold War Tunnel: Gjirokastër's Subterranean Secret
Explore Gjirokastër's Cold War Tunnel: A subterranean journey into Albania's communist past, revealing secrets of a paranoid era.
Delve into Albania's communist past at the Cold War Tunnel in Gjirokastër, a vast underground bunker built in the 1970s. This once-secret shelter, designed to protect local officials from potential invasions, now offers a chilling glimpse into a paranoid era, complete with original furnishings and equipment.
A brief summary to The cold war tunnel
- Sheshi Çerçiz Topulli, Gjirokastër, 6001, AL
- Monday 9 am-3:30 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-3:30 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-3:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am-3:30 pm
- Friday 9 am-3:30 pm
- Saturday 9 am-3:30 pm
- Sunday 9 am-3:30 pm
Local tips
- The tunnel maintains a consistent cool temperature year-round, so bring a light jacket or sweater.
- Tours are typically 20 minutes long and start on the hour, so plan your visit accordingly.
- Tickets can be purchased at the tourist information office next to the Municipality building in Çerçiz Topulli Square.
Getting There
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Walking
The Cold War Tunnel is located in Sheshi Çerçiz Topulli, near the center of Gjirokastër. From the Old Bazaar, walk towards the Municipality building. The tunnel entrance is located next to it, on the main square. The walk is easy and allows you to enjoy the sights of Gjirokastër. No costs are associated with walking.
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Public Transport
Gjirokastër 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 costs approximately 50 Lek.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Gjirokastër. Ask your driver to take you to Sheshi Çerçiz Topulli. The tunnel entrance is located next to the Municipality building. A short taxi ride within the city center typically costs between 200-400 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 Gjirokastër, a UNESCO World Heritage city. Get maps, tips, and insights for an unforgettable Albanian adventure.
Çerçiz Topulli Square
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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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Ruins of the Meçite
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Submarine 105
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Gjirokastra Old Town
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Vojsava Restaurant
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Gjirokastra Bazaar
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Hangover Cocktail Bar
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Gjirokastër Obelisk
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Bashteja e Teqesë
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Unmissable attractions to see
Tunel
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Skena e Festivalit Folklorik Gjirokastër
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Kulla e Sahatit
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Nostagia Tunnel
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Qafa e Pazarit
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Muzeu i Armëve
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Gjirokastër Museum
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Castle of Gjirokastra
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Ismail Kadare's House
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Rruga Sokaku i te Mareve
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View point
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GJIROKASTER, Skënduli House
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Rruga Palorto
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Ethnographic Museum
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Caravan Horse Riding Albania
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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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Edua 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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SOUVENIR AL KETA
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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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Old Town 13
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Komiteti Bar - Gjirokastër
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Babameto 2 - Cocktail Bar & Restaurant
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Gallery Irish Pub
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Bar Cafè Kotoni
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Bar cafe çoçoli
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Classic Coffee Bar
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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
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