The well-known French magazine echoes the capital: The new image of Tirana, a surprising and fascinating city to explore

The well-known French magazine " Voyageurs " has dedicated a special space to the Albanian capital. In its writing, the Magazine brings to attention the history and culture of Tirana, to then evoke the modern aspects of a capital in full bloom. Tirana comes to readers as a surprising and fascinating city to explore. The magazine invites travelers to discover the unique picture of Tirana and be seduced by its authentic and modern charm.

From "Skënderbej" square, to Dajti mountain, passing through the National Museum, discover the activities you can do in Tirana and the history of this destination (still) untouched by mass tourism.

Tirana, a unique mix of cultures and history

The history of Tirana seems to have started in 1418. In fact, in that year, the name of this city is mentioned for the first time in a Venetian document. Two centuries later, under the Ottoman occupation that ended in 1912, the Ottoman general Sulejman Bargjini built a mosque, Turkish baths and a bakery there, with the aim of making it more attractive to settlers.

But his plan did not succeed, since starting from the 20th century, there was a real industrial and demographic development in the city and this is partly dedicated to the arrival of Albanians from the north. It should also be mentioned that in 1920, Tirana was declared the capital of Albania. Freed from the occupation of the Italian and then German armies after the Second World War, the country then went through a dark period due to the communist regime established by Enver Hoxha. Although the latter died in 1985, it would take 1991 to see the fall of the dictatorship and the beginnings of democracy.
All this history and the influences that Albania has experienced today make Tirana a welcoming city, where a multitude of cultural and religious traditions coexist peacefully.

Immerse yourself in the excitement of Tirana, the capital in full bloom

With the aim of modernizing its public space, the Albanian capital was able to benefit from financing from the European Investment Bank for a project that aims, among other things, to clean up the Lana River and manage urban infrastructure.
Also, in 2007, the International Airport was reconstructed. It should be mentioned that four years ago, in 2003, "Architecture-Studio" was entrusted with the task of renovating Skenderbej Square, a square that was given this name, in honor of the national hero who resisted the Ottoman occupation. In 2017, the French team highlighted a modern and more "European" design for the space in the center of Tirana.

Live the experience of the Albanian capital, between modernity and the traditions of the past

For your trip to Albania, enjoy all the nuances of its dynamic capital, which is also considered the most populated city in the country. To do this, we recommend that you explore both the must-see attractions that testify to the history of the capital as well as the most modern destinations. Among the guided tours that must be done in Tirana, to learn the secrets of its past, we can mention: the Et'hem Beu Mosque, with Ottoman architecture, the National Historical Museum and the Clock Tower, all three crossing "Skënderbej" square. A few steps away is Bunk'Art 2, which is a former bunker of 1000 m2, where the horrors committed by the communist regime unfold. For a more joyful atmosphere near these sometimes tragically famous spots, discover the old bazaars, with pedestrian streets and stalls selling spices, handicrafts and clothing.
In complete contrast to this traditional, old atmosphere is the lively area in "Blok", which is less than 30 minutes' walk from the center of Tirana. It is popular for its liveliness, cafes and other elegant nightlife spots, and moreover for the fact that the former residence of Enver Hoxha is located there.

Tirana: a surprising and fascinating city to explore

In the fall of communism, the former mayor of the Municipality of Tirana, Edi Rama, and the residents had the need to regain control of the city and the desire to erase the past and gloomy facades. Thus, in an attempt to convey the joy of the end of the dictatorship, many premises were painted in bright colors. These colorful buildings are attached to others with faded facades and you should know that now, very modern buildings have been added to the panorama. All this gives the architecture of this city a surprising and very heterogeneous aspect. Furthermore, if traditional and contemporary art is best represented in the numerous museums and galleries, street art also has a special place in every corner of Tirana's streets, and this contrasts with the austerity of the old buildings. .
A place full of contrasts, the Albanian capital invites you to see another side of it during your trip to Tirana. This has nothing to do with her urban side. It is about its sublime natural and rural environment. Take the cable car or the bus line, which is located in front of the Clock Tower, to go to the Dajti Mountain park and be breathless by its landscape consisting of lakes, the Adriatic Sea and mountains. This place is ideal for hiking, climbing or even ziplining.

Let yourself be seduced by the authentic charm of Tirana

The most thirsty among you will be able to truly enjoy the culture of Tirana, only if they find time to be interested in its local gastronomy. It is interesting to note that local specialties are the result of influences from neighboring or colonizing countries, such as Greece, Turkey or even Italy.
During your stay, try some of the many authentic dishes, such as sour cream casserole, lamb stew, pie, a characteristic dish consisting of several layers, filled with beef, spinach or a kind of chicken and nut soup. Lovers of dough specialties will surely appreciate "cannoli", a type of dessert reminiscent of Italian "cannoli".
To enjoy all these pleasures, head to the Pazari i Ri district which is the temple of traditional restaurants. There is also the Marché Vert, whose stalls display local cheeses, honey, wines and spirits. Do not hesitate to visit this delicious place, which will definitely whet your appetite.
Finally, for all those who seek to feed their soul as well, they will be pleased to learn that the Albanian capital is the scene of various musical and cultural events. The one that is probably the most well-known is the International Film Festival which will take place from September 22 to 28 this year.

Thus, Tirana is this still mysterious destination, which like a rough diamond highlights its many aspects. Freed from more than 3 decades of dictatorship, Tirana represents a new image, more promising than ever for travelers looking for European destinations that are as affordable as they are enriching. Modernity and the influences of the Ottomans, Fascists and Communists create a unique picture. Hurry to find out by booking your trip in advance, as the quiet streets of Tirana can soon be filled with visitors.