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BUNK'ART 1: Journey into Albania's Communist Past

Explore Albania's communist past in a former top-secret nuclear bunker. A unique historical and art experience on the outskirts of Tirana.

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BUNK'ART 1, a former top-secret nuclear bunker on the outskirts of Tirana, offers a chilling glimpse into Albania's communist era. Built between 1972 and 1978 to protect dictator Enver Hoxha and his inner circle from nuclear attack, the five-story underground complex has been transformed into a museum and art center. Visitors can explore the bunker's 106 rooms, including Hoxha's personal suite and a massive assembly hall, and view exhibits detailing the country's history during the 45 years of communist rule.

A brief summary to BUNK'ART 1

  • Monday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Tuesday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Wednesday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Friday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Saturday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Sunday 9:30 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking through the long tunnels and rooms of the bunker.
  • Bring a light jacket or sweater, as the temperature inside the bunker is significantly cooler than outside.
  • Consider purchasing a combined ticket for BUNK'ART 1 and BUNK'ART 2 to save money and explore more of Albania's communist history.
  • Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully explore the museum and its exhibits.
  • Bring cash for the entrance fee, as card payments may not be accepted.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From the center of Tirana, take the blue bus line No. 11 to "Porcelan". The bus departs from Rruga Ludovik Shllaku, near the Clock Tower and Skanderbeg Square. The bus fare is 40 lek, which you can pay to the conductor on the bus. The trip takes approximately 35-40 minutes. Ask the bus driver to stop you near BUNK'ART 1, which is located near the Dajti Ekspres cable car.

  • Taxi

    A taxi ride from downtown Tirana to BUNK'ART 1 takes about 15-25 minutes, depending on traffic. You can download the VrapOn Taxi App or use Speed Taxi Tirana. Agree on the price with the driver before you go, or ensure that the taximeter is activated at the start of the ride. The cost should be around 500-900 lek.

  • Walking

    BUNK'ART 1 is not within walking distance of Tirana's city center. However, if you are near the Dajti Ekspres cable car, it is a short walk to the museum.

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Discover more about BUNK'ART 1

BUNK'ART 1 is a unique historical and art center located inside a massive underground bunker on the outskirts of Tirana. Constructed during the communist regime of Enver Hoxha, the bunker was designed as an anti-nuclear shelter for the country's political elite in the event of a nuclear war. The five-story complex, which remained a state secret for decades, features over 100 rooms, including offices, meeting areas, and sleeping quarters. In 2014, BUNK'ART 1 was transformed into a museum and art center, offering visitors an immersive journey through Albania's complex past. The museum's exhibits chronicle significant events in Albanian history, from the Italian invasion in 1939 to the fall of the communist regime in 1990. Visitors can explore reconstructed rooms, such as the offices of former leaders, a typical communist-era apartment, and a grocery store, providing a tangible sense of life during that period. The museum also features art installations and multimedia presentations that enhance the storytelling and create a thought-provoking atmosphere. BUNK'ART 1 provides a unique opportunity to explore a genuine artifact from Albania's past and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges of the Cold War era and the impact of communism on Albanian society. The museum serves as a reminder of the nation's progress toward democracy and openness.

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