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Site of Witness and Memory: A Testimony to Resilience

Explore Albania's poignant history at the Site of Witness and Memory in Shkodër, a tribute to the victims of the communist regime.

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The Site of Witness and Memory in Shkodër stands as Albania's first memorial dedicated to the victims of the communist regime. Housed in a former Ministry of Interior building used as an interrogation center and prison, it offers a poignant look into a dark period of Albanian history.

A brief summary to Site of Witness and Memory

  • Bulevardi Skënderbeu, Shkodër, AL
  • Monday 9:30 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 9:30 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 9:30 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am-7 pm
  • Friday 9:30 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 9:30 am-12:30 pm

Local tips

  • Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully experience the museum and its exhibits.
  • The museum is closed on Sundays; plan your visit accordingly.
  • Signage is primarily in Albanian, so consider bringing a translation app or guide.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Shkodër, such as Sheshi Demokracia (Democracy Square), head east on Bulevardi Skënderbeu. The Site of Witness and Memory will be located on your right, a short walk along the boulevard. The walk is generally flat and takes about 5-10 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Local buses operate in Shkodër, with some routes passing near Bulevardi Skënderbeu. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date routes and stops. A single bus fare typically costs around 40-100 Lek. From the bus stop, a short walk may be required to reach the museum.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Shkodër. A short taxi ride from the city center to the Site of Witness and Memory will cost approximately 800 Lek. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. Ride-hailing apps like VrapOn are also available.

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Discover more about Site of Witness and Memory

The Site of Witness and Memory serves as a powerful reminder of Albania's tumultuous past, specifically the communist era. Located in Shkodër, a city that endured significant repression, this museum occupies a building that once served as the local headquarters of the Ministry of Interior. From 1946 until the 1990s, this site was used as an interrogation center and prison for political detainees, where thousands suffered abuse and torture. The museum's exhibits aim to create a collective memory of the past and educate new generations about the mistakes of the communist regime. Visitors can explore the original pre-trial holding cells, which offer a chilling glimpse into the conditions endured by prisoners. The museum also features an audio-visual room with video materials and a library with prison literature provided by the Institute for Communism Crimes and Consequences in Albania. Artifacts on display include objects used and produced in prison, manuscripts, and letters exchanged between prisoners and their families. The museum also highlights the staggering numbers of people persecuted in Shkodër during the communist era, including those imprisoned, sent to labor camps, and executed. The Site of Witness and Memory is not just a historical exhibit but a space for reflection and contemplation, honoring the resilience and spirit of the Albanian people.

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