Background

Xhamia e Pazarit: A Gjirokastër Landmark

Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Xhamia e Pazarit, an Ottoman-era mosque in the heart of Gjirokastër's Old Bazaar.

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The Xhamia e Pazarit, or Bazaar Mosque, stands as a testament to Gjirokastër's rich cultural heritage. Built in 1757 during the Ottoman era, it's known for its elegant architecture and serene atmosphere, offering a peaceful escape in the heart of the city.

A brief summary to Xhamia e Pazarit

  • 34FQ+H66, Rruga Ismail Kadare, Gjirokaster, AL

Local tips

  • Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience and better lighting for photographs.
  • Dress modestly when entering the mosque to respect local customs.
  • Take a stroll around the mosque's grounds to enjoy the beautifully landscaped gardens.
  • Explore the surrounding Old Bazaar area for local crafts and traditional Albanian cuisine.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Gjirokastër's Old Town, the Xhamia e Pazarit is easily accessible on foot. Head towards the Qafa e Pazarit (Bazaar Square), where you'll find the mosque situated on the western side. The mosque is located near the main historical sites of Gjirokaster. The walk is short but may involve navigating cobblestone streets.

  • Public Transport

    Local buses in Gjirokastër may have routes that pass near the Old Town. Check local bus routes and schedules to see if any lines stop near the Bazaar area. From the nearest bus stop, follow the walking directions to reach the mosque. A single bus fare costs approximately 30-40 LEK.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Gjirokastër and can take you directly to the Xhamia e Pazarit. Ask the driver to take you to "Xhamia e Pazarit në Qafë të Pazarit". A short taxi ride within the city should cost around 300-500 LEK. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting the journey.

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Discover more about Xhamia e Pazarit

Xhamia e Pazarit, also known as the Bazaar Mosque or Memi Bey Mosque, is a significant landmark in Gjirokastër, Albania. Constructed in 1757 during the Ottoman period, it's located in the historic Old Bazaar neighborhood. The mosque is one of the few to survive the communist era, when many other religious buildings were destroyed. Originally intended for the New Bazaar area as part of Memi Pasha's 17th-century urban plan, the mosque endured a fire that razed the bazaar in the following century. Spared from demolition during the communist regime due to its designation as a Cultural Monument in 1973, it was repurposed as a training hall for circus acrobats. The mosque consists of a prayer hall, portico, and minaret. Stone steps lead to the prayer hall, which features a dome supported by corner vaults. Unlike other mosques, its cubic volume is relatively low to minimize structural load. Windows in two rows illuminate the interior. The minaret has a polygonal cross-section and a well-crafted stone base. The portico extends on the north and east sides, with remnants of circular arches. After the fall of the regime, in 1991 the mosque was reopened for worship. A restoration in 2018 gave it a beautiful new look. Today, the Xhamia e Pazarit is a popular attraction for tourists, offering a glimpse into Gjirokastër's spiritual and cultural life. Its location amidst local shops and cafes makes it an ideal stop while exploring the city.

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