Muzeu i Maskave Veneciane
About This Museum
Tucked away on a quiet street in Shkodër, this little museum is a true hidden gem for anyone fascinated by the romance and ritual of Venetian masquerade. I was completely transported the moment I stepped inside, surrounded by a stunning array of handcrafted masks that seem to whisper stories of 17th-century carnivals. The sheer artistry on display is breathtaking, from delicate porcelain faces to more elaborate, gilded creations adorned with feathers and crystals. It feels less like a formal exhibit and more like a personal collection you've been invited to explore.
Collection Highlights
You can't miss the stunning 'Moretta' mask, an oval of black velvet that was once held in place by a button gripped between the wearer's teeth, silencing them. Another standout is the menacing 'Medico della Peste' (Plague Doctor) with its long, beaked nose, which feels especially poignant given its historical context.
Visitor Information
It's cozy and intimate, so you don't need more than an hour, but every minute is a delight. The staff are wonderfully passionate and often share fascinating tidbits about the mask-making process.
Architecture & Building
Housed in a charming, traditional Albanian building with stone accents and rustic wooden doors that perfectly complement the historic treasures within.
Contact & Location
Address: Muzeu i Maskave Veneciane, Rruga Ing. Gjovalin Gjadri, Skënderbeg, Lagjja 2, Shkodër, Bashkia Shkodër, Qarku i Shkodrës, 4000, Shqipëria
Phone: +355 68 406 7481
