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Ismail Kadare's House: A Literary Pilgrimage

Explore the childhood home of Albania's celebrated author, Ismail Kadare, and delve into the world of 'Chronicle in Stone' in Gjirokastër.

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Visit the childhood home of Albania's most celebrated author, Ismail Kadare, now a museum showcasing his life and works. Located in the historic Palorto neighborhood of Gjirokastër, the house offers a glimpse into Kadare's world, as depicted in his novel 'Chronicle in Stone'.

A brief summary to Ismail Kadare's House

  • Monday 9 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-4 pm
  • Friday 9 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during weekdays for a more intimate experience and to avoid crowds.
  • Read 'Chronicle in Stone' before your visit to fully appreciate the connection between the house and Kadare's work.
  • Combine your visit with a walk through the historic Palorto neighborhood, where the house is located.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Ismail Kadare's House is located in the Palorto neighborhood of Gjirokastër, easily accessible on foot from most points in the Old Town. From the Ethnographic Museum, walk east along Sokaku i te Marrëve (Fool's Alley), a famous cobbled street. Continue onto Rruga Fato Berberi. The house is located at number 16. Walking within the Old Town is free.

  • Public Transport

    Gjirokastër has a local bus service that connects the historic center with other parts of the city. Check the local bus routes for a line that stops near the Old Town or the Palorto neighborhood. From the bus stop, follow the walking directions to Rruga Fato Berberi 16. A single bus fare costs around 30 Lek. Bus schedules can be obtained locally.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Gjirokastër. Ask your driver to take you to Ismail Kadare's House on Rruga Fato Berberi in the Palorto neighborhood. A short taxi ride from the city center should cost approximately 300-500 Lek. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

Unlock the Best of Ismail Kadare's House

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Discover more about Ismail Kadare's House

Step into the world of Ismail Kadare, Albania's most renowned writer, by visiting his childhood home in Gjirokastër. This meticulously restored house, located on Rruga Fato Berberi 16, serves as a museum dedicated to his life and literary legacy. Kadare's works have brought international acclaim to Albanian literature, and this house offers a unique opportunity to connect with his origins and inspirations. The house itself is a traditional Gjirokastër residence, built in 1799, showcasing the architectural style of the 19th century with its stone roof, arches, and wooden details. It was classified as a Cultural Monument in 1991. The museum opened on January 28, 2018, coinciding with Kadare's 80th birthday. Inside, you'll find original objects belonging to the Kadare family, providing an intimate glimpse into their life. Those who have read Kadare's 'Chronicle in Stone' will recognize the house and its surroundings, as the book vividly describes every corner of it. A visit here allows you to imagine Kadare as a young boy, witnessing the events of World War II from the windows of this very house. The museum aims to present a kaleidoscopic vision of Kadare's childhood, his birthplace, the city of Gjirokastër, and a particular period during the Second World War. The exhibits include manuscripts, photographs, and personal artifacts that highlight his contributions to literature and offer insights into the socio-political context of his works.

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