Background

Kukës Underground: A Journey into Albania's Cold War History

Uncover Albania's hidden history in the depths of Kukës Underground, a unique war museum and former communist bunker.

5

Explore the depths of Kukës Underground, a former communist-era bunker transformed into a war museum. Discover the secrets of this subterranean city, designed to shelter thousands during potential attacks, and learn about Albania's intriguing past.

A brief summary to Afrim Cenaj / Kukës Underground / Kukësi Nëntokësor +355 68 552 0330

  • Monday 8 am-10 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-10 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-10 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-10 pm
  • Friday 8 am-10 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-10 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-10 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience and more personal engagement with the exhibits.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be exploring underground tunnels with potentially uneven surfaces.
  • Consider joining a guided tour for in-depth insights and stories behind the artifacts.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Kukës, head in the direction of the military base ('Pranë repartit ushtarak'). The Kukës Underground is located near the base and is accessible by foot. The walk is relatively straightforward within the city.

  • Public Transport

    Arriving by bus at the main bus station near the city center, you can either walk to Kukës Underground or take a short taxi ride. A taxi from the bus station should cost around 300 ALL.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Kukës. Simply tell the driver you wish to go to 'Pranë repartit ushtarak' (near the military base), where Kukës Underground is located. A short taxi ride within Kukës should cost approximately 300-400 ALL.

Unlock the Best of Afrim Cenaj / Kukës Underground / Kukësi Nëntokësor +355 68 552 0330

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Afrim Cenaj / Kukës Underground / Kukësi Nëntokësor +355 68 552 0330

Delve into the intriguing past of Kukës at the Kukës Underground, a unique war museum housed within a vast network of subterranean tunnels. Constructed during Albania's communist regime in the 1970s, this underground city was designed to shelter up to 10,000 people – virtually the entire population of Kukës – in the event of war. The existence of this hidden city was a state secret, adding to its mystique. Today, visitors can explore a portion of these tunnels, guided by individuals like Afrim Cenaj, whose father served in the underground army. The labyrinthine passages reveal unfinished rooms, storage spaces, and remnants of a planned hospital and government offices, offering a glimpse into the ambitions of the communist era. Though the bunker remained largely unused after the fall of the regime, it now stands as a testament to Albania's resilience and a reminder of its isolated past. The Kukës Underground provides an immersive experience, showcasing well-preserved artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that narrate stories of bravery and sacrifice. It serves as a powerful reminder of the impact of the Kosovo War, during which Kukës opened its doors to hundreds of thousands of refugees, earning a Nobel Peace Prize nomination in 2000.

Popular Experiences near Afrim Cenaj / Kukës Underground / Kukësi Nëntokësor +355 68 552 0330

Popular Hotels near Afrim Cenaj / Kukës Underground / Kukësi Nëntokësor +355 68 552 0330

Select Currency