House of Leaves: Museum of Secret Surveillance
Explore Albania's chilling past at the House of Leaves Museum, once the headquarters of the secret surveillance service in communist Tirana.
The House of Leaves in Tirana is a museum dedicated to Albania's dark past of state surveillance during the communist era. Once the headquarters of the Sigurimi, the secret police, the building now displays the chilling methods and tools used to monitor citizens, offering a stark reminder of the importance of freedom and human rights.
A brief summary to House of Leaves Museum
- Rruga Ibrahim Rugova 12, Tiranë, 1001, AL
- +35542222612
- Visit website
- Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4 pm
- Friday 9 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-3 pm
Local tips
- Photography is not allowed inside the museum, so be prepared to take mental snapshots.
- Allow at least 2 hours to fully explore the exhibits and absorb the information presented.
- The museum is located in the city center, making it easily accessible by foot or public transportation.
- Consider visiting early in the day, especially during the summer, to avoid crowds.
Getting There
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Walking
The House of Leaves is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from many popular points in Tirana. From Skanderbeg Square, walk south along Bulevardi Dëshmorët e Kombit, then turn left onto Rruga Ismail Qemali. Next, turn right onto Rruga e Dibrës, and finally, turn left onto Rruga Hoxha Tahsim. The museum will be on your right, opposite the Resurrection of Christ Orthodox Cathedral. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes. There are no costs associated with walking.
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Public Transport
Tirana has a network of public buses that can take you close to the House of Leaves. Many bus lines stop near Skanderbeg Square, which is a short walk to the museum. From Skanderbeg Square area, walk towards the Resurrection of Christ Orthodox Cathedral; the museum is located opposite the cathedral. A non-transfer ticket costs 40 Lek.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Tirana. A short taxi ride from the city center to the House of Leaves should cost between 300 and 500 Lek, depending on traffic and the exact starting point. It's advisable to agree on the price with the driver beforehand.
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