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Kokonozi Mosque: A Historic Oasis in Tirana

Discover Tirana's historic Kokonozi Mosque: A symbol of faith and resilience in the heart of the New Bazaar, showcasing Ottoman-era architecture.

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The Kokonozi Mosque, also known as Xhamia e Kokonozit, is a charming 18th-century mosque nestled in Tirana's New Bazaar area. It stands as a symbol of resilience, having survived Albania's communist regime when many other religious sites were closed or destroyed. Today, it serves as a vibrant community hub and a testament to Albania's rich cultural heritage.

A brief summary to Kokonozi Mosque

  • 8RJF+2WM, Rruga Thimi Mitko, Tirana, AL

Local tips

  • Dress modestly when visiting the mosque to respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try to locate the entrance beforehand, as it can be a bit tricky to find in the small alleyways.
  • Visit during the weekdays for a quieter and more peaceful experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Skanderbeg Square, walk east on Rruga Murat Toptani. Continue straight until you reach Rruga e Elbasanit. Turn left onto Rruga e Elbasanit, and continue walking until you reach the Kokonozi Mosque. The mosque is located in a small alley, so keep an eye out for signs or ask locals for directions.

  • Public Transport

    Take bus line 2 from the city center towards Sauk. Get off at the stop near Pazari i Ri (New Bazaar). From there, walk southeast on Rruga e Kavajës until you reach Rruga e Elbasanit. Turn right on Rruga e Elbasanit and continue walking until you reach Kokonozi Mosque. A non-transfer ticket costs 40 Lekë.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Tirana. An average taxi ride within the city center should cost no more than 500 Lekë. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. Taxi services like Speed Taxi and Green Taxi operate 24/7. A taxi from the city center to Skanderbeg Square costs approximately 300-400 Lek. The base fare starts at 300 Lekë, with an additional 120 Lekë per kilometer for the first 6.5 kilometers.

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Discover more about Kokonozi Mosque

The Kokonozi Mosque, or Xhamia e Kokonozit, is a historical landmark in Tirana, dating back to 1750 during the Ottoman era. Also known as the New Bazaar Mosque, it's one of the few Muslim places of worship in Tirana that survived the communist dictatorship of Enver Hoxha. During this period, when Albania was declared an atheist state, the mosque was repurposed as a storage room for food and tobacco. Following the end of the communist regime, the Kokonozi Mosque was reopened on February 18, 1991, and has since been restored to its original purpose as a place of worship. The mosque's architecture showcases a blend of simplicity and elegance, characteristic of the neighborhood mosque style. The minaret, partially destroyed in the 1960s, has been reconstructed. Inside, visitors can admire vibrant frescoes and restored dome decorations that reflect the community's resilience. The mosque also provides separate prayer spaces and ablution facilities for women. Visiting the Kokonozi Mosque offers a glimpse into Tirana's past and present. It's a place where history, faith, and community converge, providing a serene escape from the bustling city.

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