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House of Leaves: Museum of Secret Surveillance

Uncover the secrets of Albania's communist past at the House of Leaves Museum, a chilling reminder of state surveillance and repression.

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Delve into Albania's dark past at the House of Leaves, a museum dedicated to the surveillance and repression of the communist regime. Once the headquarters of the Sigurimi, the state security service, the building now exposes the chilling methods used to control the population.

A brief summary to House of Leaves Museum

  • Monday 9 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-7 pm
  • Friday 9 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully explore the museum's exhibits and absorb the historical information.
  • Photography is restricted inside the museum, so be prepared to take mental snapshots.
  • The museum is located in the city center, making it easily accessible by foot or public transportation.
  • Consider visiting on the last Sunday of the month for free admission, except between June and August.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The House of Leaves is centrally located in Tirana, between Skanderbeg Square and Taiwan Park. From Skanderbeg Square, walk south along Rruga Murat Toptani, then turn right onto Rruga Dëshmorët e 4 Shkurtit. The museum will be on your left, opposite the Orthodox Cathedral. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    Tirana's bus network has several lines that stop near the House of Leaves. Check local bus routes for the most convenient option from your location. Many buses stop around the city center, near Kulla Sahatit (Clock Tower) or behind the National Museum, which are short walks to the museum. A single bus fare costs 40 Lek.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Tirana. A short taxi ride from Skanderbeg Square or most central locations to the House of Leaves should cost approximately 300-500 Lek. Ensure the driver uses the meter or agree on a fare beforehand.

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Discover more about House of Leaves Museum

The House of Leaves, also known as the Museum of Secret Surveillance, offers a chilling glimpse into Albania's communist past. Located in the heart of Tirana, the museum resides in a building that once served as the headquarters of the Sigurimi, the Albanian state security service. Originally built in 1931 as a medical clinic, the building was later used by the Gestapo during the German occupation in World War II. After the war, it became the central office for investigations and the hub of the intelligence service, a place where countless lives were affected by surveillance, interrogation, and repression. The museum opened in 2017, seeking to commemorate the victims of the communist regime and shed light on the methods used to control the Albanian population. Inside, visitors can explore 31 rooms filled with surveillance equipment, documents, and personal testimonies. Exhibits reveal the sophisticated tools and techniques employed by the Sigurimi, including bugged telephone lines, hidden cameras, and intercepted mail. The museum also showcases reconstructed living spaces, demonstrating how surveillance permeated every aspect of daily life. The House of Leaves stands as a stark reminder of Albania's dark history and a testament to the importance of freedom and democracy.

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