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Tanners' Bridge: A Stone Testament to Tirana's Past

Step back in time on Tirana's Tanners' Bridge, a beautifully restored Ottoman-era footbridge and a symbol of the city's rich cultural heritage.

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The Tanners' Bridge (Ura e Tabakëve) is an 18th-century Ottoman stone footbridge in Tirana, Albania. Once a vital part of the Saint George Road connecting Tirana to the eastern highlands, it's now a pedestrian-only cultural monument showcasing the city's history.

A brief summary to Tanners' Bridge

  • Bulevardi Jean D'Arc, Tirana, AL

Local tips

  • Visit during sunset for beautiful lighting and photo opportunities.
  • Take a stroll around the surrounding area to discover local cafes and shops.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the area is perfect for walking and exploring.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Tanners' Bridge is easily accessible on foot from Tirana's city center. From Skanderbeg Square, head southeast along Bulevardi Zhan D'Ark. The bridge is located a few hundred meters from the square, near the Tanners' Mosque. There are no costs associated with walking to the bridge.

  • Public Transport

    Tirana has an extensive public transportation system. Several bus lines operate in the city center, and you can take a bus that stops near Bulevardi Zhan D'Ark. From the bus stop, it is a short walk to the Tanners' Bridge. A single bus fare in Tirana is 40 Lek.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Tirana. You can hail a taxi from the street or find one at a taxi stand. A short taxi ride from Skanderbeg Square to the Tanners' Bridge area will typically cost around 350 Lek for the initial fare (including the first 1.5 km). Keep in mind that there may be a per-minute charge depending on traffic.

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Discover more about Tanners' Bridge

Tirana's Tanners' Bridge, or Ura e Tabakëve, is a charming reminder of the city's Ottoman past. Constructed in the 18th century, this stone footbridge was a crucial part of the Saint George Road, linking Tirana with the eastern highlands. This route was primarily used by farmers and merchants to bring livestock and produce into the city. The bridge derives its name from the tanners (tabakë in Albanian) who practiced their trade nearby, processing animal hides. Spanning the Lanë stream, the bridge was actively used until the 1930s when the river's course was diverted. Neglect led to its disrepair, but in the 1990s, the bridge was lovingly restored and is now used only by pedestrians. The restoration included uncovering the original foundations and creating artificial ponds to mimic the Lanë stream. The Tanners' Bridge stands as a testament to the fine bridge construction of the time, boasting a harmonious architecture and proportional distribution of its elements. Today, the Municipality of Tirana recognizes it as one of the city's most important cultural heritage monuments, embodying Tirana's urban development during the 18th century. Located a short distance from the Murat Toptani Promenade and Skanderbeg Square, it provides a tranquil escape into history.

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