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Kulla e Sahatit: Tirana's Historic Clock Tower

Explore Tirana's iconic Clock Tower: a historic landmark offering panoramic city views and a glimpse into Albania's Ottoman past.

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Kulla e Sahatit, or the Clock Tower, is a prominent historical landmark in the heart of Tirana, Albania. Built in 1822 during the Ottoman era, it stands as a symbol of the city's rich history and cultural heritage, offering panoramic views of the evolving cityscape from its viewing platform.

A brief summary to Kulla e Sahatit

  • Kulla e Sahatit, Tirana, AL

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for the climb up the 90-step spiral staircase.
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy better lighting for photography.
  • Check the opening hours ahead of time, as they may vary seasonally.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll around Skanderbeg Square to explore other nearby attractions.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Kulla e Sahatit is located on the eastern edge of Skanderbeg Square, next to the Et'hem Bey Mosque, making it easily accessible on foot from most central locations in Tirana. From the National Historical Museum in Skanderbeg Square, walk east towards the Et'hem Bey Mosque; the Clock Tower is right beside it. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    Many bus lines stop near Skanderbeg Square. Take any bus heading towards the city center and get off at a stop near the square. From there, walk towards the Et'hem Bey Mosque; the Clock Tower is right beside it. The average bus fare in Tirana is 40 lek (about 0.32 USD) for urban lines.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Tirana. A short taxi ride from anywhere in the city center to Kulla e Sahatit should cost between 300-500 ALL. You can hail a taxi from the street or use a ride-sharing app. The base fare is 300 Lek, with an additional charge per kilometer and per minute, depending on the zone.

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Discover more about Kulla e Sahatit

Rising from Skanderbeg Square, Kulla e Sahatit (the Clock Tower) is more than just a timepiece; it's a symbol of Tirana's journey from a quiet Ottoman town to a modern European capital. Constructed in 1822 by Et'hem Bey, who also completed the adjacent Et'hem Bey Mosque, the tower initially marked daily prayers and regulated the city's public life. Standing approximately 35 meters (115 feet) tall, the tower was once the tallest structure in Tirana. Its architectural details reflect different historical periods, featuring a square stone base built with local limestone and a cylindrical tower topped with a dome-shaped roof and a viewing balcony. The clock faces are displayed on all four sides, making it visible from various points in Skanderbeg Square. Visitors can ascend the tower via a 90-step spiral staircase to reach the viewing platform. From the top, you can enjoy panoramic views of Skanderbeg Square, the Et'hem Bey Mosque, and the surrounding cityscape, offering a unique perspective on Tirana's blend of historical and modern architecture. The clock mechanism itself has been replaced several times, with a German-made mechanism installed in 1928. Although the original bell was removed during World War II, the tower remains a testament to Tirana's resilience and enduring spirit.

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