Ismail Kadare's house

★★★★★ 4.4/5 (4,269 reviews) Very Good

About This Museum

Tucked away on a steep cobblestone lane in old Gjirokastër, this isn't just another Ottoman-era house; it's the very place where one of Albania's literary giants first saw the world. You can almost feel the stories simmering within its stone walls, waiting to be told. Stepping inside is like walking into the setting of one of his novels, a tangible connection to the imagination that would later captivate readers globally. It’s a quiet, unassuming spot that holds an immense presence.

Collection Highlights

The rooms are arranged much as they would have been, with simple period furniture and personal family photographs that make the history feel immediate. For any fan of his work, the most powerful exhibit is simply standing in the rooms where Kadare spent his childhood, surrounded by the same views of the Gjirokastër fortress that would deeply influence his writing.

Visitor Information

It's a small house, so you won't need more than half an hour, but it's a profound few minutes for anyone interested in literature and history. Just look for the traditional stone facade on Fato Berberi street—it’s easy to miss, so keep your eyes peeled.

Architecture & Building

A classic example of Gjirokastër's distinctive Ottoman architecture, built from local stone with a steeply pitched slate roof and characteristic wooden details.

Contact & Location

Address: Rruga Fato Berberi, Gjirokastër, Bashkia Gjirokastër, Qarku i Gjirokastrës, 6001, Shqipëria

Phone: +355 69 698 7970

Website: Visit Website