"Marubi" National Museum of Photography.
About This Museum
The 'Marubi' National Museum of Photography isn't just a gallery; it's the visual biography of a nation, holding one of the Balkans' most significant photographic collections. Stepping inside feels like opening a long-lost family album, if your family's story spanned over a century of Albanian history. The heart of the museum is, of course, the three generations of the Marubi dynasty, whose work meticulously documents everything from 19th-century aristocratic portraits to the raw, everyday life of a country in flux. It’s an intimate and powerful experience that connects you directly to the faces and places that shaped this corner of the world.
Collection Highlights
You'll find Pietro Marubi's hauntingly beautiful 19th-century portrait of Rrok Kodheli, often considered Albania's first-ever photograph. Then there are Gegë Marubi's stunningly crisp glass plate negatives capturing scenes from the court of King Zog. Beyond the famous names, entire walls are dedicated to anonymous subjects—farmers, soldiers, families—whose direct gazes across time are utterly captivating.
Visitor Information
It's compact enough to absorb in a couple of hours without feeling rushed, but give yourself time to really look into the eyes of the people in these images. The lighting is thoughtfully done to minimize glare on the glass, making it easy to get lost in the details.
Architecture & Building
Housed in a beautifully restored two-story building with a distinct Ottoman-era influence, its pale stone facade and traditional architectural lines provide a surprisingly perfect, almost home-like setting for such a personal collection.
Contact & Location
Address: Rruga Kolë Idromeno, Vasil Shanto, Lagjja 3, Shkodër, Bashkia Shkodër, Qarku i Shkodrës, Shqipëria Veriore, 4001, Shqipëria
Phone: +355 68 907 1797
Website: Visit Website
