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Skënduli House: An Ottoman Gem

Explore Skënduli House in Gjirokastra: A beautifully preserved Ottoman-era home offering a glimpse into Albanian history and culture.

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Step back in time at Skënduli House, a remarkably preserved Ottoman-era residence in Gjirokastra. Built in the 18th century and partially restored in 1827, this house offers a glimpse into the lives of a wealthy Albanian family, boasting intricate architecture and a rich history.

A brief summary to Skënduli House

Local tips

  • Allow at least one hour for a comprehensive tour of the house and to hear stories from the owner.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Ethnographic Museum and Gjirokastra Castle for a full day of historical exploration.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as the streets in the old town are steep and cobbled.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Skënduli House is located in the Palorto neighborhood of Gjirokastra's old town. From Çerçiz Topulli Square, walk northeast along Rruga Palorto. The house is a short walk from the Ethnographic Museum. Be prepared for steep, cobbled streets.

  • Public Transport

    Local buses connect the new town with the old town, stopping at Çerçiz Topulli Square. From there, follow the walking directions to Skënduli House. A single bus fare within Gjirokastra is approximately 30 lek.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available throughout Gjirokastra. A taxi from the new town to Skënduli House in the old town will cost approximately 300-500 lek. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Skënduli House

Skënduli House, nestled in the heart of Gjirokastra, stands as a captivating testament to the city's rich cultural heritage. Constructed in the 1700s by Skënder Skënduli and partially renovated in 1827, this architectural gem showcases the intricate craftsmanship of the Ottoman period. The Skënduli family, one of the wealthiest in southern Albania at the time, built the mansion to reflect their status and influence. With 64 windows, 44 doors, 12 rooms, and 9 fireplaces, the house reflects the opulence of a bygone era. The main guest room features a decorated ceiling and wooden poles, adding to its unique charm. The house also features six hamam baths, and a hidden mezzanine floor where women could observe their fiancés. The fortified walls, complete with loopholes and sophisticated locks, hint at its defensive function. During the communist era, the house was briefly repurposed as the Ethnographic Museum. It has since been returned to the Skënduli family, and Nasip Skënduli, a descendant of the original owners, welcomes visitors and shares stories about the house. A tour of Skënduli House provides an insightful look into daily life, gender roles, and celebratory traditions during the Ottoman period.

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