Ismail Kadare's House: A Literary Landmark in Gjirokastër
Discover the world of Albania's most famous writer, Ismail Kadare, at his beautifully preserved childhood home in Gjirokastër.
Explore the childhood home of Albania's most celebrated writer, Ismail Kadare, now a museum showcasing his life and works. Located in the historic Palorto neighborhood of Gjirokastër, the house offers a glimpse into Kadare's early life and the world that shaped his writing.
A brief summary to Ismail Kadare's House
- Rruga Fato Berberi 16, Gjirokaster, AL
- +355696987970
- Visit website
Local tips
- Read Kadare's 'Chronicle in Stone' before visiting to fully appreciate the house's significance and its connection to his work.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the Palorto neighborhood has steep, cobblestone streets.
- Combine your visit with a tour of the nearby Skenduli House for a broader understanding of Gjirokastër's traditional architecture.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Old Bazaar, head east, following the cobblestone path uphill towards the Palorto neighborhood. The house is located in the middle of the historical Palorto neighborhood. The walk is steep but rewarding, offering views of the city. No costs are associated with walking.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Gjirokastër. A short taxi ride from the city center to Ismail Kadare's House costs approximately 300 Lek (€2.50). Negotiate the fare beforehand.
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Public Transport
Local buses connect the old and new town. Take a bus that goes towards the Palorto neighborhood and get off at the closest stop. From there, it's a short walk to the house. A single bus fare costs around 30 Lek (€0.25).
Discover more about Ismail Kadare's House
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Shtepia e Ficove Gjirokaster
0.1 km
Discover the unique architecture and cultural heritage of Shtepia e Ficove, a distinctive landmark in the heart of Gjirokastër's historic district.
Palorto Hotel
0.1 km
Experience comfort and Albanian hospitality at Palorto Hotel, your serene base for exploring the historic Stone City of Gjirokastër.
Kore Guest House
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Experience authentic Albanian hospitality in a historic Gjirokastër guest house with stunning views and a central location for exploring the Stone City.
Silver Hill Guesthouse
0.2 km
Experience comfort and culture at Silver Hill Guesthouse in Gjirokastër's Old Town, with stunning views and easy access to historic attractions.
Gjirokastër Obelisk
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Discover the Gjirokastër Obelisk, a historical landmark that offers stunning views and a rich narrative of Albania's past.
Girokastra
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Discover the enchanting charm of Girokastra, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing Albania's rich history and stunning Ottoman architecture.
Bukowksi Bar Gjirokaster
0.3 km
Discover Bukowski Bar in Gjirokaster, where local charm meets vibrant nightlife in a cozy, artistic setting perfect for relaxation and socializing.
Stone City Hostel
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Submarine 105
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Hangover Cocktail Bar
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Xhamia e Pazarit
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Gjirokastra Bazaar
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Hotel Old Bazaar 1790
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Hotel Old Bazaar 1970
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Hotel Kastro
0.3 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Rruga Sokaku i te Mareve
0.1 km
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Rruga Palorto
0.1 km
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GJIROKASTER, Skënduli House
0.1 km
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Ethnographic Museum
0.1 km
Explore the Ethnographic Museum in Gjirokastër, Albania, to experience the heart of Albanian cultural heritage and history.
Qafa e Pazarit
0.3 km
Explore Qafa e Pazarit in Gjirokastra: a vibrant historical landmark with artisan shops, Ottoman architecture, and authentic Albanian culture.
Caravan Horse Riding Albania
0.3 km
Experience the Albanian countryside like never before with guided horseback tours through the stunning landscapes of Gjirokaster.
Nostagia Tunnel
0.3 km
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Zekate house & outdoor cozy bar
0.4 km
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The cold war tunnel
0.4 km
Explore Gjirokastër's Cold War Tunnel: A subterranean journey into Albania's communist past, revealing secrets of a paranoid era.
Tunel
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Castle of Gjirokastra
0.4 km
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Muzeu i Armëve
0.5 km
Explore the rich military history of Albania at the Museum of Arms in Gjirokaster, showcasing a remarkable collection of artifacts and weaponry.
Gjirokastër Museum
0.5 km
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View point
0.5 km
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Skena e Festivalit Folklorik Gjirokastër
0.5 km
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Essential places to dine
ETNO
0.2 km
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Rrapi Restaurant
0.2 km
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Bon Appetit
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Rumors Restaurant Lounge
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Kujtimi Restaurant
0.2 km
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FOCUS RESTAURANT
0.2 km
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Restorant Kufoi
0.3 km
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Taverna Kuka
0.3 km
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SIMPLE RESTAURANT
0.3 km
Experience the rich flavors of Albania at Simple Restaurant in Gjirokaster - a culinary delight for every traveler.
Sofra Bar Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience authentic Albanian flavors at Sofra Bar Restaurant in Gjirokaster - where tradition meets hospitality.
Te Raqi
0.3 km
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Checkin-Restaurant & Pizzeri
0.3 km
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Restaurant Gjoça Tradicional
0.3 km
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Grill House 13
0.3 km
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Restorant La Famiglia
0.3 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Pirpiri
0.2 km
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Antigonea 2000
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Mano handmade
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Antique Shop
0.2 km
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Fast Food Sara
0.3 km
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Tobacco One
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SOUVENIR AL KETA
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Take a memory
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Mini market Pazar
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Handmade Eva
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Souvenir Gjirokastra
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Kodra Sweet hill
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Alma Souvenir
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Lulu’s Spot
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Aquila Liquori A&N GLAUK
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Babameto 2 - Cocktail Bar & Restaurant
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Gallery Irish Pub
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Komiteti Bar - Gjirokastër
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Bar cafe çoçoli
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Bar Cafè Kotoni
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The Black Rose Pub
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O’clock
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Old Town 13
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Grey Stone 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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Delvina lounge
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Mystic Night Club
0.2 km
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4 Elements Night Clubs ( Strip Club )
24.9 km
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RoofTop
25.0 km
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Tipsy drinks and more
25.0 km
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Orange Club Sarande
25.1 km
Experience the electric nightlife of Orange Club Sarande, where music, cocktails, and stunning coastal views create unforgettable memories.
City Lounge
25.2 km
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New Space
25.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Sarandë at New Space, where cocktails, music, and great company create unforgettable moments.
Cocktail Bar Rei
25.2 km
Experience stylish cocktails with stunning sea views at Cocktail Bar Rei in Sarandë, Albania - the perfect spot for relaxation and nightlife.
Demi Lounge
25.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Sarandë at Demi Lounge, a stylish retreat for exquisite cocktails and live music by the beautiful Albanian coast.
Difi Live Music
25.3 km
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Nightclub STIL
25.4 km
Unleash your spirit at Nightclub STIL, the ultimate nightlife destination in Përmet, Albania, where music and fun collide for an unforgettable evening.
Bar Grand
25.5 km
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Pallati i Policave
25.8 km
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Factory Night Club
25.9 km
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Mango Club
26.6 km
Experience the heartbeat of Sarandë's nightlife at Mango Club, where vibrant energy meets breathtaking views and unforgettable moments.
