Tirana is the capital of Albania. The city does not have a long history, having been founded only in 1614 under the Ottoman rule. It became the capital of the newly independent Albanian state in 1920, after the Congress of Lushnjë.
Being a relatively new city, Tirana doesn't have many old structures. The oldest one is the Et'hem Bey mosque on Skanderbeg square. Much of the historic centre of Tirana was created in the 20th century, based on designs by Italian architects. In the centre of Tirana is the Skanderbeg square, named after the national hero who resisted the Ottoman invasion in the 15th century. This is a large open square along which the National Museum, the Opera and the Et'hem Bey mosque are located.
Tirana is a relatively green city with many parks and clean street in a good state. The centre of Tirana is currently being developed with new buildings being added and older ones being restored. Major churches include the St Paul cathedral and the Resurrection of Christ cathedral. A large mosque is currently being built.
How to get to Tirana
Tirana can be reached by plane (Nënë Tereza international airport), by car and by train although the train station is 10km out of town.
Accommodation
Accommodation options include hotels and pensions, all bookable via the international booking portals.
