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Lead Mosque

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Lead Mosque (Albania)

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The Lead Mosque, known locally as Xhamia e Plumbit, is situated near the city of Shkodër and is regarded as one of the most significant monuments of Ottoman architecture in Albania. It was built in 1773 by Mehmed Pasha Bushati, the governor of the Pashalik of Shkodra, with a design inspired by the classical style of the Blue Mosque in Istanbul. The mosque derives its name from the distinctive lead coating on its domes, which has survived through the centuries despite numerous floods and regional conflicts. A notable feature of the structure is the absence of its minaret, which was destroyed by a lightning strike in 1967 and never rebuilt. During Albania's atheist era, the Lead Mosque was protected as a cultural monument, sparing it from the destruction that befell many other religious buildings. Located at the foot of Rozafa Castle, the mosque's isolated position on the plain contributes to a peaceful atmosphere that attracts both worshippers and tourists from around the world.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C671014182326262217128
Rain mm1421311259480573233104126170163

📋 Practical info

🚪
Visiting
The mosque is usually open to visitors, except during prayer times. The interior can be visited, with appropriate dress required.
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Typical hours
Mosques in Albania typically open in the morning and close in the evening, with breaks for prayers. On Fridays, access is often restricted in the morning.
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Photography
Photography inside is usually allowed, but avoid taking pictures during prayer. Flash should not be used to respect the atmosphere.
⏱️
Time needed
A visit to the mosque takes about 20 to 30 minutes. Those wanting to enjoy the architecture and surroundings should allow 45 minutes.
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Combine with
The mosque lies at the foot of Rozafa Castle, which you should definitely visit. The old town of Shkodër with its narrow streets is within walking distance.
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Getting there
The mosque is located in central Shkodër, near the city park. It is easily reachable on foot from the city center.
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Insider tip
Visit the mosque in the late afternoon when the light beautifully highlights the lead-covered domes. Take time to enjoy the view towards the castle.

Geography

Coordinates
42.04580, 19.49940

Facts

  • The mosque was built in 1773 by Mehmed Pasha Bushati.
  • The name refers to the actual lead covering the domes.
  • The original minaret was destroyed by a lightning strike in 1967.
  • The structure is protected as a Category I state cultural monument.
  • The architecture is heavily influenced by Istanbul's classical style.
  • Due to its riverside location, the mosque has been flooded multiple times.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Rozafa CastleRozafa Castle<1 km · WExplore →
Shkodër Industrial ZoneShkodër Industrial Zone2 km · NExplore →
Monastery of ShirgiMonastery of Shirgi10 km · WExplore →
Paleo-Christian Basilica of MesPaleo-Christian Basilica of Mes10 km · NEExplore →
BushatBushat10 km · SExplore →
Vau i Dejës Hydroelectric Power StationVau i Dejës Hydroelectric Power Station12 km · EExplore →
Castle of SardaCastle of Sarda13 km · EExplore →
Drisht CastleDrisht Castle13 km · NEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Sights in the town Lead Mosque (10)

Lead Mosque

Mosque in Shkodër, Albania, built in 1773, known for its lead-covered domes.

🕒 Mo-Su 06:00-22:00

Barbakan - Main Fortified Entrance 15th cent.🏰 castle

Main gate of the Shkodër fortress from the 15th century, with thick walls.

Illyria Wall Tract 4th cent. B.C🏰 castle

Remnant of an Illyrian wall from the 4th century BC, inside Shkodër fortress.

Venetian Complex and Tower of Don Zhon🏰 castle

Venetian building complex with a tower in Shkodër castle.

Ottoman Millitary Barrack and Depot 16th - 17th cent.

Ruins of an Ottoman barracks and depot from the 16th-17th centuries.

Rozafa Castle

Castle above Shkodër, a cultural heritage monument of Albania, with history since antiquity.

Saranxha- medieval Cistern no 2. 14th cent

Medieval cistern from the 14th century in Shkodër castle.

Military Barrack of The Communist Periode 1980

Ruins of a military barracks from the communist period, built in 1980.

Historical Museum of the Castle🏛 museum

Museum in Shkodër castle displaying finds from the area.

Hamz Kazazi

Monument in Shkodër honoring the local hero Hamz Kazazi.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Why is it called the Lead Mosque?
Because of the lead-covered domes of the structure.
Where is it located?
In Shkodër, at the foot of the Rozafa Castle hill.
When was it built?
It was built in 1773 by Mehmet Pasha Bushati.
Is it still in use?
Yes, it is an active mosque and a cultural monument.
Is there a flood risk?
Yes, due to its location by the river, the grounds are often flooded.
Lead Mosque: where is it located?
Lead Mosque is located in Albania.
Lead Mosque: what is there to see?
Highlights include Lead Mosque, Barbakan - Main Fortified Entrance 15th cent., Illyria Wall Tract 4th cent. B.C.
Lead Mosque: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.
Lead Mosque: why is it worth visiting?
The Lead Mosque, known locally as Xhamia e Plumbit, is situated near the city of Shkodër and is regarded as one of the most significant monuments of Ottoman architecture in Albania.
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