National Historical Museum

Located on Skanderbeg Square, it presents Albania's story from prehistoric times through the modern era and is especially recognizable for its monumental mosaic façade, The Albanians.

Collections and exhibitions

The museum was inaugurated in 1981 and was designed to provide a comprehensive overview of Albania's history. Its permanent displays have traditionally been organized into themed pavilions covering periods such as Antiquity, the Middle Ages, the National Renaissance, Independence, Iconography, the National Liberation War, Communist Terror, and Mother Teresa, with thousands of historical artifacts, documents, artworks, and archaeological finds.

Architecture and significance

The building dominates the northern side of Skanderbeg Square. Above the entrance is the famous The Albanians mosaic, a large Socialist Realist artwork completed for the museum's opening that depicts figures representing different periods of Albanian history. The façade has become one of Tirana's most recognizable architectural landmarks.

Current status

The museum is temporarily closed while undergoing a major restoration and modernization project. According to the museum and public announcements, the closure began in March 2024 and is expected to continue until March 2028. Visitors to Skanderbeg Square can still view the iconic exterior, but the exhibition galleries are not currently open to the public.