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The Clock Tower of Tirana: A Timeless Sentinel

Explore Tirana's iconic Ottoman-era Clock Tower, a symbol of the city's history, offering panoramic views of Skanderbeg Square and the evolving skyline.

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The Clock Tower of Tirana, or Kulla e Sahatit, is an iconic Ottoman-era monument in the heart of Albania's capital. Completed in 1822, it stands as a symbol of the city's history and transformation. Visitors can climb the tower for panoramic views of Skanderbeg Square and the evolving Tirana skyline.

A brief summary to The Clock Tower of Tirana

Local tips

  • Climb the 90 steps of the spiral staircase for panoramic views of Tirana.
  • Visit during the day to see the clock faces, visible from all corners of Skanderbeg Square.
  • Combine your visit with a tour of the adjacent Et'hem Bey Mosque for a unique architectural experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Clock Tower is located in the heart of Tirana, next to Skanderbeg Square and the Et'hem Bey Mosque. From Skanderbeg Square, walk east towards the National History Museum; the Clock Tower is located nearby. The area is pedestrian-friendly and easily accessible on foot. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    Most public buses in Tirana stop around Skanderbeg Square. Check local bus routes for the most convenient line. From the bus stop, walk towards Skanderbeg Square and then east towards the National History Museum to find the Clock Tower. A single bus fare is around 40 Lek.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Tirana. Ask the driver to take you to Skanderbeg Square. The Clock Tower is a short walk east of the square, near the Et'hem Bey Mosque. A short taxi ride within the city center typically costs between 300-500 Lek. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

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Discover more about The Clock Tower of Tirana

Rising 35 meters (115 feet) high, the Clock Tower of Tirana, or Kulla e Sahatit, has been a prominent feature of the city since its completion in 1822. Built by Haxhi Et'hem Bey, who also completed the adjacent Et'hem Bey Mosque, the tower originally symbolized progress and civic pride during the Ottoman era. The tower's architecture blends Ottoman and Western styles. Constructed with local limestone, the square stone base reflects Ottoman-era construction techniques. The cylindrical tower is topped with a dome-shaped roof and a viewing balcony, showcasing a Western influence added in 1928 when the tower was renovated. Inside, a spiral staircase with 90 steps leads to the viewing platform. Over the years, the clock mechanism has been replaced several times. The original clock was imported from Venice, followed by a German-made mechanism in 1928. Damaged during World War II, it was later restored, and in 1970, a Chinese clock system was installed. The tower was illuminated at night for the first time in the 1930s. Today, the Clock Tower stands as a cultural monument and a reminder of Tirana's rich history. It is a symbol of the Municipality of Tirana and, together with the Et'hem Bey Mosque, forms a unique architectural ensemble. Visitors can climb to the top for impressive views of Skanderbeg Square and the surrounding cityscape.

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