Taking a break in Tirana

My travels exploring the east of Europe continue, this time in Tirana, Albania. Just a short flight away, yet a warmer climate, delicious food with Italian and Greek influences and a young generation who are determined to celebrate their freedom after hearing stories from their parents and grandparents of communist times, made for an interesting and thought-provoking few days. 

As a city, it is easy to explore Tirana on foot. Venturing further afield there are buses, but leave time to navigate the traffic! I loved the mix of architecture in the city from rustic to modern, Italian influenced and colourful. Some of the buildings reminded me of Hundertwasser’s work (which I’ve seen in a public toilet in New Zealand of all places!) Tirana is changing though and changing fast. Lots of construction going on of modern, high-rise apartments and office spaces.

Albania is a secular country and the two largest religions are Islam and Christianity. During a walking tour the guide told us that despite its turbulent history, Albania has never gone to war over religion and prides itself on welcoming everyone to the country. It’s hard to believe they have only been a democracy since 1992. I visited Bunk’art 2 which is a museum in a nuclear bunker telling the history of the political police during communist times. It’s documented and presented very well and is definitely worth a visit to learn more of this period in this country’s history.

So, for a dose of sunshine, plenty of food choices inspired by the Mediterranean, a warm welcome in a country kind on the purse strings, consider visiting Albania (before it becomes over-developed.)