The Cold War Tunnel: Gjirokastra's Underground Secret
Explore Gjirokastra's Cold War Tunnel: An underground glimpse into Albania's communist past and Enver Hoxha's paranoia, a chilling journey into history.
Delve into Albania's communist past at the Cold War Tunnel in Gjirokastra, an 800-meter underground bunker constructed in the 1970s. This once-secret complex, featuring 59 rooms, offers a chilling glimpse into the paranoia of dictator Enver Hoxha and the nation's preparations for a potential nuclear attack.
A brief summary to The cold war tunnel
- Sheshi Çerçiz Topulli, Gjirokaster, 6001, AL
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking through uneven tunnels.
- Bring a light jacket, as the temperature inside the tunnel remains a consistent 15 degrees Celsius (59 Fahrenheit) year-round.
- Tours are guided and start from the Tourist Information Point in Çerçiz Topulli Square.
Getting There
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Walking
The Cold War Tunnel is located in Sheshi Çerçiz Topulli, near the center of Gjirokastra. From the Old Bazaar, walk towards the Municipality building. The tunnel entrance is located next to it, on the main square. It's an easy walk, and you can enjoy the sights of Gjirokastra along the way.
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Public Transport
Gjirokastra has a public bus circuit connecting the old and new town. Take the bus to the city center and get off at Sheshi Çerçiz Topulli. From there, the tunnel entrance is a short walk away, next to the Municipality building. A single bus ticket costs around 30 Lek.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Gjirokastra. Ask your driver to take you to Sheshi Çerçiz Topulli. The trip from the center of Gjirokastra should cost around 300-500 ALL.
Discover more about The cold war tunnel
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Tourist Information Center
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Your gateway to exploring Gjirokastër, a UNESCO World Heritage city. Get maps, tips, and insights for an unforgettable Albanian adventure.
Çerçiz Topulli Square
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Corner of Bazaar
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Hotel Kastro
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Mapo Restaurant
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Bukowksi Bar Gjirokaster
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Stone City Hostel
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Ruins of the Meçite
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Submarine 105
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Gjirokastra Old Town
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Vojsava Restaurant
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Gjirokastra Bazaar
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Hangover Cocktail Bar
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Gjirokastër Obelisk
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Bashteja e Teqesë
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Unmissable attractions to see
Tunel
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Skena e Festivalit Folklorik Gjirokastër
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Kulla e Sahatit
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Nostagia Tunnel
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Qafa e Pazarit
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Muzeu i Armëve
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Gjirokastër Museum
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Castle of Gjirokastra
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Ismail Kadare's House
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Rruga Sokaku i te Mareve
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View point
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GJIROKASTER, Skënduli House
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Skënduli House
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Rruga Palorto
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Ethnographic Museum
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Essential places to dine
Restaurant Çajupi
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Restaurant "The Park"
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Sofra Bar Restaurant
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Bon Appetit
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Restaurant Gjoça Tradicional
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Rrapi Restaurant
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Restaurant Tradicional Odaja
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Kujtimi Restaurant
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Grill House 13
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Furra Restaurant & Rooms
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SIMPLE RESTAURANT
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Restorant La Famiglia
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Rumors Restaurant Lounge
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Checkin-Restaurant & Pizzeri
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Taverna Kuka
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Experience Gjirokastra
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Bonna Design
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Elinikon
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Tobacco One
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Mozaik Antik Gjirokaster
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Edua Gjirokaster
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Mini market Pazar
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Handmade Eva
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Lulu’s Spot
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Alma Souvenir
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Mano handmade
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Aquila Liquori A&N GLAUK
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Artisan Shop
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Jona Souvenir
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SOUVENIR AL KETA
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
O’clock
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The Black Rose Pub
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Grey Stone Bar
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Old Town 13
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Komiteti Bar - Gjirokastër
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Babameto 2 - Cocktail Bar & Restaurant
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Gallery Irish Pub
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Bar Cafè Kotoni
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Bar cafe çoçoli
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Classic Coffee Bar
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Kastro bar
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Bar Center
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Bar Shtaka
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Oazi Bar
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Bar Restorant Gjirokaster Rapi
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