Background

Clock Tower of Korçë: A Symbol of Time and History

Discover the historical Clock Tower of Korçë, a beautifully reconstructed Ottoman landmark in the heart of the city's vibrant Old Bazaar.

4.5

The Clock Tower of Korçë, a reconstructed Ottoman-era landmark, stands proudly in the city's Old Bazaar. Originally built in 1784, it was destroyed by an earthquake in 1960 and faithfully rebuilt in 2016, echoing its historical and architectural significance.

A brief summary to Clock Tower of Korçë

Local tips

  • Visit the Clock Tower in the morning for a quieter experience and better lighting for photographs.
  • Explore the Old Bazaar surrounding the tower for local crafts, traditional Albanian coffee, and a taste of Korçë's vibrant culture.
  • Combine your visit with a tour of the nearby Mirahori Mosque, a historic religious site dating back to the 15th century.
  • Check out local events or markets that often take place in the square surrounding the tower for a more immersive experience.
  • Visit the National Museum of Medieval Art or the Archaeological Museum to delve deeper into the region's history and culture.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    The Clock Tower is located in the Old Bazaar of Korçë, easily accessible on foot from most central locations. From St. George Boulevard, head west towards the Mirahori Mosque; the Clock Tower is situated adjacent to the mosque. The area is pedestrian-friendly, with cobblestone streets and numerous shops and cafes. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by bus at the Korçë central bus station, you can reach the Clock Tower by walking or taking a local taxi. To walk, head west on Rruga e Shtjefën Gjeçovi, continuing until you reach Rruga Asim Vokshi, where the tower is located. A one-way local transport ticket costs approximately $0.30. Taxis are readily available, especially at the bus station. Expect to pay around 300 ALL (approximately $3 USD) as a starting fare, plus 150 ALL (approximately $1.5 USD) per kilometer.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are a convenient way to reach the Clock Tower from anywhere in Korçë. They can be hailed from the street or booked in advance. A 5km ride in Korçë costs about 1800 ALL. The starting price is 300 ALL, and each KM is priced at 150 ALL. Be sure that the taxi is metered to ensure fair pricing.

Unlock the Best of Clock Tower of Korçë

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Clock Tower of Korçë

Rising adjacent to the Mirahori Mosque, the Clock Tower of Korçë is more than just a time-telling structure; it's a testament to the city's layered past and cultural resilience. The original tower, constructed in 1784, was a product of collaboration between Muslim and Orthodox Christian communities, symbolizing unity in a diverse society. The bakers' guild took responsibility for the construction, with Muslims building the tower and Orthodox Christians providing the clock and its base. Over the centuries, Korçë transformed into a vibrant urban center, and the clock tower became an integral part of its identity. The tower's bell could be heard across the Old Bazaar, regulating the rhythm of daily life for merchants and locals alike. However, the ravages of time and natural disasters took their toll. The original clock broke down due to lack of maintenance, and the tower suffered structural damage from earthquakes. Despite reconstruction efforts in 1893 and 1933, it was ultimately destroyed by an earthquake in 1960. The reconstructed tower, completed in 2016, stands as a faithful replica of its predecessor, built with modern materials but clad in stone to maintain its original appearance. Standing 17 meters tall, it serves as a reminder of Korçë's rich history and architectural heritage. Today, visitors can admire the tower's Ottoman-style design, explore the surrounding Old Bazaar, and reflect on the tower's significance as a symbol of Korçë's enduring spirit.

Popular Experiences near Clock Tower of Korçë

Popular Hotels near Clock Tower of Korçë

Select Currency