Overview:

Skanderbeg Square is the main square of Tirana, Albania. Named after the Albanian national hero George Kastrioti Skanderbeg (1405–1468), it is a popular gathering place in the center of Tirana. The square lies at the northern end of the city's thoroughfare, the Boulevard that was constructed by Italian Fascists. It houses several important government buildings, such as the Historic Museum and the Prime Minister's Office, and it is the center of Tirana's cultural and nightlife. The monument sculpture at the center of the square consists of eight statues of riders, representing the eight areas of Albania, circling the figure of Skanderbeg on his horse. It was constructed in 1968 on the occasion of 500 years since Skanderbeg's death. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Albania
Prominent Features:

1. Et’hem Bey Mosque: An 18th century Ottoman mosque, located in the center of the square and the oldest building in Tirana. 2. National Historic Museum: Built in 1981, the museum is an important destination displaying hints of Tirana’s past. 3. Skanderbeg Statue: Located in the middle of the square, the imposing bronze statue of Skanderbeg on horseback is a popular attraction. 4. National Theater: This stunning 20′s era building has played a big role in the cultural and political development of Tirana. 5. The Albanian Flag: This 4.8m flagpole with the national flag of Albania is a symbol of pride for the inhabitants of Tirana. 6. Fountain of Wealth: Another eye-catching monument found in the square, it honors Tirana’s prosperity. 7. King Zog’s Palace: Built in 1931, this building is a reminder of Tirana’s darkest years during communism, when it was renamed the People’s Cultural Palace. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Albania.

History:

Skanderbeg Square is the central public square of Tirana, Albania. It is named after Albanian national hero Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg. The square has a total area of nearly 30,000 square meters and it has a rectangular shape. It is situated in the heart of Tirana, surrounded by buildings from the late 1960s. In October 1914, the Austro-Hungarian troops took control of Tirana and were the first to refer to the city centre as ‘Skanderbeg Square’. During the early part of World War I, an equestrian statue of Skanderbeg was inaugurated in the centre of the square. This was a gift from the Austro-Hungarian Emperor Franz Joseph I to King Ferdinand of Romania. The statue remained there until the 1920s when it was replaced by a new concrete sculpture created by Niko Bakali. In the 1930s, during the rule of King Zog, Skanderbeg Square underwent major redevelopment. The square was expanded and new buildings were added to its environs. The western part of the square became known as King Zog’s Square, while the eastern part was renamed after Skanderbeg. In the late 1940s, the Communist bloc led by Enver Hoxha took control of Albania. They changed the name of the square from Skanderbeg Square to Enver Hoxha Square and the statue of Skanderbeg was removed and replaced with a statue of Enver Hoxha. In 1992, following the fall of Communism, the square was given back its original name of Skanderbeg Square. The statue of Enver Hoxha was taken down and replaced with a bronze sculpture of Skanderbeg. The statue was a gift from the Albanian people to the city of Tirana. Today, Skanderbeg Square is a vibrant public area with numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops. It also serves as the site for various cultural events and is the centre of Tirana’s nightlife. Visit one of the famous monuments of Albania with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. Skanderbeg Square is the largest city square in Tirana, Albania. 2. The square was named in honor of Albania’s national hero, Gjergj Kastrioti, whose nickname was Skanderbeg. 3. It was designed in the communist era and is mainly composed of wide boulevards, elegant buildings, and a large open area. 4. The main attraction in Skanderbeg Square is the huge equestrian statue of Skanderbeg and the Et'hem Bey Mosque, located at the entrance. 5. The square is a popular gathering place in the city and is often used to celebrate holidays and other special occasions. 6. A number of monuments and statues adorn the square, including a bronze statue of Mother Teresa and a monument of the Unknown Soldier. 7. Skanderbeg Square is also surrounded by several important buildings, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the National Bank, the Presidency building, and the Palace of Congresses. 8. The square also features a large open-air amphitheater, which can accommodate up to 1,500 people. One of the historical monuments of Albania, it tells the story of a bygone era