Muzeu Historik Kombëtar
Albania's largest museum on Skanderbeg Square – 4,750 artifacts from Illyrians to the 20th century
The National Historical Museum is Albania's main museum, covering 27,000 m² on the northern side of Skanderbeg Square. Opened in 1981, it houses 4,750 artifacts across eight thematic pavilions spanning ancient Illyrian civilization through communist-era terror and Mother Teresa's legacy. The facade features a monumental mosaic titled 'The Albanians' in the Socialist Realist style.
Important: The museum has been closed for renovation since March 2024. Planned reopening is 2028. Some collections are temporarily displayed at other institutions. The facade mosaic is still visible from the square.
Before closure, the museum was open daily, admission was 500 ALL (≈€5 / $5). A full visit took 2–2.5 hours. Check mhk.gov.al for current status.
The museum building is a massive 1981 structure on the north side of Skanderbeg Square, opposite the Et'hem Bey Mosque and Clock Tower. The main facade is dominated by the monumental mosaic 'The Albanians', approximately 40 × 10 m – created by five artists in 1980, depicting historical figures from Illyrian warriors to WWII partisans. It is one of the last major examples of Socialist Realism in Europe.
Eight pavilions cover all key eras: the Pavilion of Antiquity (585 objects – Illyrian artifacts, the 4th-century BC 'Beauty of Durrës' mosaic, a 3rd-century BC head of Artemis), Middle Ages, National Renaissance, Independence, Iconography (icons by 16th-century master Onufri), Anti-Fascist War, Communist Terror, and a Mother Teresa pavilion. The exhibition follows a chronological layout across multiple floors.
Labels were predominantly in Albanian with some English. Before closure, audio guides and group tours were available. The building is undergoing renovation with upgraded exhibition spaces, funded by the EU4Culture program.
Facade mosaic – 'The Albanians' (1980), a monumental Socialist Realist panel, one of the largest in Europe
Collection – 4,750 objects in 8 thematic pavilions, from the Stone Age to the 20th century
Scale – 27,000 m² total area, 18,000 m² of exhibition space
Iconography – collection of icons by 16th-century master Onufri, unique in the Balkans
Antiquities – 4th-century BC 'Beauty of Durrës' mosaic, 3rd-century BC head of Artemis
Status – closed for renovation since March 2024, reopening planned for 2028
The museum opened on 28 October 1981 after three years of planning by historians, linguists, archaeologists, and art specialists. The building was constructed with Soviet assistance; after relations soured, China helped complete it – the architectural style resembles Beijing-era museums. The facade mosaic 'The Albanians' was completed in 1980 by five artists: Vilson Kilica, Anastas Kostandini, Agim Nebiu, Justin Droboniku, and Aleksander Filipi.
After communism fell, the exhibition was revised – pavilions on Communist Terror and Mother Teresa were added. The museum became the country's primary historical institution, but the building needed major renovation. In March 2024, the museum closed for a comprehensive overhaul funded by the EU4Culture program. Work includes upgrading engineering systems, reorganizing exhibition spaces, and creating a modern multimedia environment. Reopening is planned for 2028.
The museum is closed for renovation (March 2024 – estimated 2028).
Before closure:
– Adults: 500 ALL (≈€5 / $5)
– Groups: 300–400 ALL/person
– Children under a certain age: free
– Senior discounts available for Albanian citizens only
Check mhk.gov.al for updated pricing after reopening.
Before closure, photography was restricted – prohibited in some halls or flash-free only. Backpacks went to a cloakroom. During renovation, the interior is inaccessible. The facade mosaic can be photographed freely.
During renovation: The building is fully closed to visitors. The facade and mosaic are visible from the square.
Before closure:
Wheelchair accessible
Restrooms and cloakroom inside
No cafe in the building – nearest dining on the square or in the Blloku district (10-minute walk)
Location: North side of Skanderbeg Square, address – Sheshi Skënderbej 7, Tirana.
From anywhere in the center:
– Walk from the Pyramid – 10–15 minutes north along the boulevard
– From Bunk'Art 2 – 3 minutes on foot
– Taxi from anywhere in Tirana – 300–700 ALL (≈€3–7 / $3–7)
Landmark: The building with the monumental mosaic on its facade, north side of the square.
Status: The museum is closed for renovation until 2028. The facade mosaic can be viewed any time.
Before closure, recommended: Morning hours (9:00–11:00 AM) for quieter viewing. Spring and fall avoid summer crowds. Allow 2–2.5 hours for a full visit.
Tip: Follow reopening updates at mhk.gov.al and @MuzeuHistorikKombetar on social media.
Practical answers about visiting, routes and time on site.
No. The museum has been closed for renovation since March 2024. Reopening is planned for 2028. Some collections are temporarily shown elsewhere. The facade mosaic is visible from the square.
500 ALL (≈€5 / $5) for adults. Groups paid 300–400 ALL per person. Children entered free. Prices may change after reopening.
Yes. The monumental mosaic 'The Albanians' on the facade is visible from the square at any time. It's one of the last major Socialist Realist works in Europe.
2–2.5 hours to see all eight pavilions. The museum spans multiple floors.
The 'Beauty of Durrës' mosaic (4th century BC), head of Artemis (3rd century BC), icons by master Onufri (16th century), and the National Renaissance and Communist Terror pavilions.
Bunk'Art 1 and Bunk'Art 2 cover the communist period in former bunkers. The House of Leaves museum is in the former secret police headquarters (700 ALL, Tue–Sat). The National Archaeological Museum is also open (500 ALL).
Primarily Albanian, with some English labels. Audio guides were available in Albanian, English, and Italian. The renovation plans include expanded multimedia and multilingual content.
