Selvia: Tirana's Historic Cypress

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Discover Selvia, Tirana's historic cypress tree, a natural landmark blending the city's past and present.

Selvia, meaning 'Cypress' in Albanian, is a well-known landmark in Tirana, marked by a towering old cypress tree. Once a simple reference point, it's now surrounded by bars and buildings, representing a blend of old Tirana with the new.

A brief summary to Selvia

8RMF+54P, Tirana, AL

Monday 8:30 am-9:30 am
Tuesday 8:30 am-9:30 am
Wednesday 8:30 am-9:30 am
Thursday 8:30 am-9:30 am
Friday 8:30 am-9:30 am
Saturday 8:30 am-9:30 am

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Selvia.

Visit during the day to fully appreciate the contrast between the old cypress tree and the modern buildings surrounding it.
Enjoy a coffee or a drink at one of the nearby bars to soak in the local atmosphere.
Use Selvia as a starting point to explore other historical sites in Tirana's city center.

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Getting There

Walking

From Skanderbeg Square, walk east along Rruga e Barrikadave. Continue onto Sheshi Frederik Shopen. Turn left onto Rruga Andon Zako Cajupi, and then turn right. Selvia will be on your left, surrounded by bars and cafes. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. No costs involved.
Public Transport

From the city center, several bus lines will get you close to Selvia. Look for buses that stop near the New Bazaar (Pazari i Ri). From the bus stop, it's a short walk to Selvia. A single bus ticket costs 40 Lek. Be aware that bus routes and stops may not always be clearly marked.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Tirana. A short taxi ride from Skanderbeg Square to Selvia should cost between 300-400 Lek. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. Taxi apps like Speed Taxi are also available.

Discover more about Selvia

Selvia, easily translated to 'Cypress' in Albanian, stands as a beloved and recognizable landmark for the people of Tirana. More than just a tree, it represents a piece of the city's history and serves as a familiar meeting point. The ancient cypress, reaching approximately 25 meters, is set in what locals fondly call 'old Tirana,' a space now interwoven with modern establishments.Over time, Selvia has transformed from a solitary natural marker to an integrated part of Tirana's urban landscape. While it retains its natural charm, the area around it has evolved, now featuring cozy bars and multi-story buildings. This juxtaposition of the old and new creates a unique atmosphere, drawing both locals and tourists. Visiting Selvia provides a glimpse into Tirana's evolving identity, where historical touchstones coexist with contemporary life. It's a place where one can pause, reflect, and appreciate the blend of nature and urbanity in the heart of Albania's capital.