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House of Leaves: Museum of Secret Surveillance

Explore Albania's chilling past at the House of Leaves, a museum dedicated to the secret surveillance of the communist era.

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The House of Leaves in Tirana, Albania, is a museum dedicated to the country's history of surveillance and political repression during the communist era. Once the headquarters of the Sigurimi, the Albanian secret police, the museum showcases the tools and methods used to monitor citizens, offering a chilling glimpse into a dark period of Albanian history.

A brief summary to House of Leaves Museum

Local tips

  • Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully explore the museum's exhibits and absorb the historical context.
  • Photography is not allowed inside the museum, so be prepared to take mental snapshots.
  • The museum is located in the city center, making it easily accessible by foot or public transportation.
  • Visit early in the day, especially during the summer, to avoid crowds.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The House of Leaves is centrally located in Tirana, between Skanderbeg Square and Taiwan Park, making it easily accessible on foot from most city center locations. From Skanderbeg Square, walk south along Dëshmorët e 4 Shkurtit street. The museum will be on your left, opposite the Orthodox Cathedral.

  • Public Transport

    Tirana's public buses operate frequently, with many lines stopping near Skanderbeg Square. From the square, it's a short walk south to the House of Leaves. Bus fare is 40 Lek per ride. Check with locals for the best route, as bus stop markings can be unclear.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Tirana. A short taxi ride from Skanderbeg Square to the House of Leaves will cost approximately 300 Lek. Ensure the driver activates the taximeter at the beginning of the ride.

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Discover more about House of Leaves Museum

The House of Leaves, officially the Museum of Secret Surveillance, stands as a haunting reminder of Albania's communist past. Located in the heart of Tirana, the museum is housed in a two-story villa that once served as the headquarters of the Sigurimi, the feared secret police of the communist regime. Originally built in 1931 as a medical clinic, the building was later used by the Gestapo during the German occupation in World War II. After the war, it became the central office for the Sigurimi, who used it to monitor and control the population. The museum opened in 2017 and is dedicated to commemorating the victims of surveillance, arrests, and executions during the communist era. Inside, visitors can explore 31 rooms displaying various surveillance equipment, documents, and personal testimonies. Exhibits reveal the sophisticated tools used by the regime to spy on its citizens, including bugged rooms, hidden microphones, and darkrooms for developing films. The museum also highlights the personal stories of those who were persecuted, offering a chilling glimpse into the fear and paranoia that permeated Albanian society during this time. The House of Leaves is not only a historical museum but also a place for reflection on the importance of freedom and democracy.

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