Background

National Historical Museum: Albania's Story

Explore Albania's rich past through artifacts & exhibits at the National Historical Museum in Tirana's Skanderbeg Square. Closed for renovation until 2028.

4.1

The National Historical Museum in Tirana is Albania's largest museum, offering a comprehensive journey through the country's history from ancient times to the post-communist era. Located on Skanderbeg Square, its iconic facade features a large mosaic, "The Albanians," symbolizing the nation's resilience.

A brief summary to National Historical Museum

Local tips

  • Check for reopening updates and potential temporary exhibits before planning your visit, as the museum is undergoing major renovations until 2028.
  • Explore Skanderbeg Square and other nearby attractions like the Et'hem Bey Mosque and the Opera & Ballet Theatre while the museum is closed.
  • Learn about Albania's history through other museums and cultural sites in Tirana during the museum's closure.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    The National Historical Museum is located on Skanderbeg Square, the heart of Tirana, making it easily accessible on foot from most central locations. From the Skanderbeg Monument, walk north towards the museum, which is easily identifiable by its large facade mosaic. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    Skanderbeg Square is a central transport hub with numerous bus lines stopping nearby. Check local bus routes for lines that stop at Skanderbeg Square. From the bus stop, the museum is a short walk away. A single bus fare within Tirana typically costs 40 Lek.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Tirana and can take you directly to the National Historical Museum on Skanderbeg Square. A short taxi ride from another location in central Tirana to Skanderbeg Square typically costs around 300 Lek. Ensure the driver activates the meter or negotiate a fixed price before starting your trip.

Unlock the Best of National Historical Museum

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about National Historical Museum

The National Historical Museum (Muzeu Historik Kombëtar) stands as a symbol of Albania's rich and complex history. Opened in 1981, the museum is located in the heart of Tirana, on Skanderbeg Square. The museum's facade features a monumental mosaic titled "The Albanians," created by Albanian artists during the communist era. The mosaic depicts figures representing Albania's resilience and identity across centuries. The museum spans 27,000 square meters, with 18,000 square meters dedicated to exhibitions. The museum is divided into eight pavilions, each dedicated to a specific period or theme in Albanian history : * Pavilion of Antiquity: Features artifacts from the Paleolithic era to the Early Middle Ages. * Pavilion of the Middle Ages: Showcases Byzantine artifacts, medieval weaponry, and religious iconography. * Pavilion of the Albanian National Renaissance: Focuses on the period leading up to Albania's declaration of independence in 1912. * Pavilion of Independence: Highlights the formation of the Albanian state from 1912 to 1939. * Pavilion of Iconography: Displays post-Byzantine art from the 16th to the 19th centuries. * Pavilion of the National Liberation and Anti-Fascist War: Reflects events from the War of Vlora in 1920 to the end of World War II in 1945. * Pavilion of Communist Terror: Presents the political repression faced by Albanians under communist rule. * Pavilion of Mother Teresa. Note that The National Historical Museum in Tirana shut its doors to visitors on 15 March 2024 and is scheduled to remain closed until 2028 for full structural restoration, modernization of exhibitions, improved climate control, and accessibility upgrades.

Popular Experiences near National Historical Museum

Popular Hotels near National Historical Museum

Select Currency