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Kulla e Sahatit: Tirana's Historic Clock Tower

Explore Tirana's history at the iconic Clock Tower, offering panoramic city views from its Ottoman-era structure in Skanderbeg Square.

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The Clock Tower of Tirana, or Kulla e Sahatit, is an iconic landmark in Skanderbeg Square, standing as a symbol of the city's Ottoman past and its transformation into a modern capital. Built in 1822, it offers visitors a glimpse into Albania's architectural heritage and panoramic views of Tirana.

A brief summary to The Clock Tower Of Tirana

  • Monday 9 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-6 pm
  • Friday 9 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-2 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for the climb up the narrow, spiral staircase.
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
  • Check the opening hours, as they may vary depending on the season.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Kulla e Sahatit is located on the eastern side of Skanderbeg Square, next to the Et'hem Bey Mosque, making it easily accessible on foot from most central locations in Tirana. From the center of Skanderbeg Square, walk east towards the Et'hem Bey Mosque; the Clock Tower is right beside it. No costs are associated with this approach.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus lines stop near Skanderbeg Square. From the bus stop, walk towards Skanderbeg Square and then head east towards the Et'hem Bey Mosque; the Clock Tower is right beside the mosque. A single bus fare in Tirana typically costs around 40 ALL. The L15 bus is one of the lines that will take you close to the Clock Tower.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Tirana. Request a ride to Skanderbeg Square. From there, the Clock Tower is a short walk east, next to the Et'hem Bey Mosque. A short taxi ride within the city center typically costs between 300 and 500 ALL.

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Discover more about The Clock Tower Of Tirana

Kulla e Sahatit, Tirana's Clock Tower, is more than just a timepiece; it's a symbol of the city's evolution. Constructed in 1822 by Et'hem Bey, who also built the adjacent Et'hem Bey Mosque, the tower once represented progress and civic pride. The original clock mechanism was imported from Venice, with a bell from Germany added in the 19th century. The tower's architecture reflects its history. It features a square stone base built with local limestone in the Ottoman style, topped by a cylindrical tower with a dome and viewing balcony. Originally, the tower was 35 meters (115 feet) tall, making it the tallest structure in Tirana at the time. A spiral staircase with 90 steps leads to the top. Over the years, Kulla e Sahatit has undergone several changes. In 1928, the clock was replaced with a German mechanism, and the tower was expanded. Damaged during World War II, it was later rebuilt. In 1970, a modern clock system was installed. Today, Kulla e Sahatit stands as one of the few surviving examples of Ottoman civic architecture in Tirana. Located on the eastern edge of Skanderbeg Square, next to the Et'hem Bey Mosque, the tower is a key cultural anchor. Climbing to the top provides panoramic views of Skanderbeg Square, the Et'hem Bey Mosque, the National Museum, and the Opera House.

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