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Clock Tower of Tirana
The Clock Tower of Tirana, known locally as Kulla e Sahatit, is one of the most iconic landmarks of the Albanian capital, standing prominently in Skanderbeg Square next to the Et'hem Bey Mosque. Construction of the tower began in 1822 under the direction of Haxhi Et'hem Bey and was completed with the financial contributions of the city's wealthiest families. Originally measuring 28 meters in height, the structure was extended to 35 meters in 1928 to accommodate a new German-made clock mechanism. Over the decades, the timepieces within the tower have mirrored Albania's shifting political ties, ranging from original Venetian bells to German and Chinese mechanisms, and finally to modern digital systems. An internal spiral staircase with 90 steps leads to a viewing platform that provides panoramic views of the bustling city center. As a symbol of Tirana's growth and continuity, the tower underwent an extensive restoration in 2010, ensuring its preservation as a historical monument.
- Location: Albania
- Top sights: Clock Tower · Et'hem Bey Mosque · Bunk'Art 2
- Nearby: Farkë (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 2 | 3 | 7 | 11 | 15 | 20 | 24 | 24 | 18 | 13 | 8 | 3 |
| Rain mm | 93 | 83 | 77 | 69 | 64 | 45 | 29 | 27 | 74 | 95 | 109 | 109 |
📋 Practical info
Geography
Facts
- The foundation stone was laid in 1822 by Haxhi Et'hem Bey.
- In 1928, the tower's height was increased from 28 meters to 35 meters.
- The mechanical clock was replaced in 1928 by a modern German model.
- A spiral staircase with exactly 90 steps leads up to the observation deck.
- During the 1970s, a Chinese-made clock mechanism was used for a period.
- The last comprehensive restoration of the structure took place in 2010.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Clock Tower of Tirana (10)
Skanderbeg Monument
Bronze sculpture of Skanderbeg in Tirana.
Institute of Italian Culture
Italian cultural institute in Tirana, promotes Italian language and culture.
Friendship Monument
Monument in Tirana symbolizing friendship.
National Theatre of Opera and Ballet of Albania
Opera house in Tirana, venue for opera and ballet performances.
National Theatre for Children
Puppet theatre in Tirana, performances for children.
Orthodox Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ
Orthodox church in Tirana, dedicated to the Resurrection of Christ.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
When was the clock tower built?
How high is the tower?
Can you climb the tower?
Where does the tower stand?
Is the clock lit at night?
Clock Tower of Tirana: where is it located?
Clock Tower of Tirana: what is there to see?
Clock Tower of Tirana: when is the best time to visit?
Clock Tower of Tirana: why is it worth visiting?
Nearby cities
