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House of Leaves: Museum of Secret Surveillance

Uncover Albania's hidden past at the House of Leaves Museum, a haunting reminder of the nation's secret surveillance during the communist era.

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The House of Leaves Museum in Tirana, Albania, unveils the chilling history of the nation's secret surveillance during the communist era. Once the headquarters of the Sigurimi, the museum exposes the techniques and impact of state control on its citizens, offering a haunting glimpse into a dark past.

A brief summary to House of Leaves Museum

Local tips

  • Arrive early, especially during the summer, as the museum can get busy.
  • Check for discounts; reduced tickets are available for seniors, students, and citizens with disabilities.
  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum's 31 rooms and exhibits.
  • The museum is located near other landmarks like the Resurrection of Christ Orthodox Cathedral and the National Bank of Albania, making it easy to combine with other sightseeing.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The House of Leaves is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from Skanderbeg Square. From the square, walk towards the Resurrection of Christ Orthodox Cathedral; the museum is located opposite the cathedral. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Tirana has an extensive public transportation system. Many bus lines stop near Skanderbeg Square, which is a short walk from the museum. Look for buses that go around the main square. A non-transfer ticket costs 40 Lek. From the Skanderbeg Square area, walk towards the Resurrection of Christ Orthodox Cathedral; the museum is located opposite the cathedral.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Tirana. A short taxi ride from the city center to the House of Leaves should cost between 300 and 500 Lek. Ensure the driver uses the meter or agree on a fare beforehand.

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Discover more about House of Leaves Museum

The House of Leaves, or Museum of Secret Surveillance, stands as a stark reminder of Albania's oppressive past. Located in the heart of Tirana, the museum is housed in a two-story villa, its facade covered in foliage, giving it its distinctive name. Built in 1931, the building initially served as Albania's first private obstetrics clinic before being commandeered by the Gestapo during the German occupation in World War II. After the war, it became the central directorate of the Sigurimi, the Albanian secret service, from 1944 to 1991. Opened to the public on May 23, 2017, the museum is dedicated to the innocent people who were spied on, arrested, prosecuted, convicted, and executed during the communist regime. Wandering through the 31 rooms of the museum reveals the surveillance and interrogation techniques used by the regime against its own citizens. Exhibits showcase original documents detailing the secret workings of the Sigurimi, surveillance devices, and personal testimonies. The museum also features a darkroom for developing film and a laboratory for processing chemicals and fingerprints. The House of Leaves aims to narrate one of the darkest periods in Albania's history to young people and foreigners alike. By opening the doors of this house, the museum unveils aspects of Albanian society under a regime that aimed at total control over human bodies and souls. The building is located in the city center, near the Orthodox Cathedral and the National Bank of Albania.

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