National Historical Museum🏛 museum
Built in 1931 to designs by Florestano Di Fausto, the site previously held the first city hall.
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National History Museum
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The National History Museum in Tirana is the largest and most prestigious museum in Albania. Opened on October 28, 1981, it is immediately recognizable by the monumental mosaic on its facade titled 'The Albanians,' which depicts the nation's struggle for independence from antiquity to the modern era. The museum's galleries are arranged chronologically, leading visitors from the Illyrian period and the Middle Ages through the National Awakening to the resistance during World War II and the victims of the communist regime. Among its most valuable treasures are the 'Head of Apollo' from Butrint and the 14th-century Epitaph of Gllavenica. The museum serves as a critical institution for preserving cultural heritage and fostering an understanding of Albanian identity. It provides a comprehensive and profound insight into Albania's complex history within the broader context of the Balkans and Europe.
- Location: Albania
- Top sights: National Historical Museum · Skanderbeg Monument · National Theatre of Opera and Ballet of Albania
- Nearby: Farkë (5 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
Visiting
The National History Museum is an indoor building, accessible only during opening hours. You can visit the exhibition halls inside.
Typical hours
The museum typically opens Tuesday through Sunday and is closed Mondays. Exact hours vary, but a morning visit is typical.
Photography
Photography is allowed without flash in most exhibition areas. The large mosaic facade can be photographed from outside anytime.
Time needed
Allow about two to three hours for a thorough visit. The extensive collection of Albanian history takes time to explore.
Combine with
Combine the museum with Skanderbeg Square and the Et'hem Bey Mosque. All are in central Tirana within close walking distance.
Getting there
The museum is located right on Skanderbeg Square in the city center. It is easily reachable on foot, by bus, or taxi.
Insider tip
Start your visit on the top floor and work your way down. This helps you avoid crowds and get a better view of the exhibits.
Geography
Facts
- The museum features approximately 18,000 square meters of exhibition space.
- The iconic facade mosaic measures 13 meters in height and 40 meters in width.
- It houses around 4,750 artifacts of significant historical value.
- The Pavilion of Communist Terror was inaugurated in 2012.
- The 'Goddess of Butrint' (Head of Apollo) is a highlight of the classical collection.
- The museum is divided into eight main pavilions based on historical eras.
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.
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Sights in the town National History Museum (10)
Et'hem Bey Mosque
Mosque in Albania, known for its frescoes.
National Theatre for Children
Puppet theatre in Tirana, Albania.
Clock Tower
Cultural heritage monument of Albania, clock tower in Tirana.
Institute of Italian Culture
Italian cultural centre in Tirana.
Bunk'Art 2🏛 museum
Museum in Tirana, Albania, underground bunker.
Friendship Fountain
Fountain in Skanderbeg Square.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognize the museum?
By the huge 'The Albanians' mosaic above the main entrance.
How many pavilions are there?
There are eight pavilions, from antiquity to the present day.
Are there descriptions in English?
Yes, most exhibits have English explanations.
What is the entrance price?
Entry for adults costs about 500 ALL.
When is the museum closed?
On Mondays, the museum is usually closed to visitors.
National History Museum: where is it located?
National History Museum is located in Albania.
National History Museum: what is there to see?
Highlights include National Historical Museum, Skanderbeg Monument, National Theatre of Opera and Ballet of Albania.
National History Museum: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
National History Museum: why is it worth visiting?
The National History Museum in Tirana is the largest and most prestigious museum in Albania.
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