Background

National Historical Museum: A Chronicle of Albania

Explore Albania's rich past at the National Historical Museum in Tirana, from ancient civilizations to the modern era.

4.1

The National Historical Museum in Tirana is Albania's largest museum, offering a comprehensive journey through the nation's history from ancient times to the post-communist era. Its iconic facade features a monumental mosaic, "The Albanians," symbolizing the country's resilience and unity.

A brief summary to National Historical Museum

Local tips

  • Check for temporary exhibits to enhance your visit with international collaborations and traveling collections.
  • Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and have a more relaxed experience.
  • Explore Skanderbeg Square and other nearby attractions like the Et'hem Bey Mosque and the Tirana Clock Tower.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    The National Historical Museum is located in Skanderbeg Square, the heart of Tirana, making it easily accessible on foot from most central locations. From the Skanderbeg Monument, walk north. The museum is situated on the square's north side, next to the Palace of Culture. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    Tirana's public buses offer a convenient way to reach Skanderbeg Square. Many bus lines stop near the square. Look for buses with signs indicating 'Qender' (Center). The average bus fare in Tirana is 40 lek. Pay the fare in cash to the driver or conductor when boarding.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Tirana and offer a direct route to the National Historical Museum. A taxi ride from the city center to Skanderbeg Square typically costs around 300 lek for the first 1.5 km. Be sure the driver activates the taximeter at the start of the ride.

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 prominent cultural institution in Skanderbeg Square, Tirana, serving as a symbol of Albania's rich historical narrative. Opened in October 1981, the museum provides an immersive and educational experience, showcasing Albania's journey through the ages. Occupying 27,000 square meters, with 18,000 square meters dedicated to exhibitions, the museum presents a comprehensive look at Albanian history, from prehistoric times to the post-communist transition. The museum is divided into eight pavilions, each dedicated to a specific era or theme in Albanian history. These include the Pavilion of Antiquity, the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, Independence, Iconography, the Anti-Fascist National Liberation War, Communist Terror, and Mother Teresa. Dominating the museum's facade is the striking mosaic, "The Albanians," a powerful representation of Albania's identity and struggles across centuries. Created during the communist era, the mosaic features 13 figures symbolizing the unity and strength of the Albanian people, with Mother Albania at the center. Inside, the Pavilion of Antiquity showcases rare artifacts from the Paleolithic era to the Early Middle Ages, including the renowned "Beauty of Durrës" mosaic. The Pavilion of the Communist Terror displays documents, photographs, and objects from the period of the one-party system in Albania from 1945 to 1990.

Popular Experiences near National Historical Museum

Popular Hotels near National Historical Museum

Select Currency