Tirana

Tirana is the capital and largest city of Albania, serving as the country’s political, economic and cultural center. It is located in central-western Albania, on the Tirana Plain.

Founded as a small Ottoman-era town, Tirana became the capital in 1920 and experienced rapid urban growth in the 20th century. Under the communist regime, the city underwent significant construction and modernization, a legacy visible in its wide boulevards and monumental architecture. After the 1990s, Tirana expanded further with new residential and commercial districts, public spaces and private investment.

As the administrative seat, Tirana hosts government ministries, the parliament, the president’s office and numerous international organizations. The city is a major service hub with finance, education, media and retail sectors contributing to the local economy. It is also home to several universities, including the University of Tirana and the Polytechnic University of Tirana.

Key landmarks include Skanderbeg Square, the Et’hem Bey Mosque, the Clock Tower and the National History Museum. The Pyramid of Tirana, once a museum and exhibition center, is a notable example of late-communist architecture and has undergone adaptive reuse. The Blloku district is known for its cafes and cultural venues. The city also serves as a gateway to nearby mountains such as Dajti.

Public transport currently relies on buses and taxis, with ongoing efforts to expand urban mobility. Tirana International Mother Teresa Airport serves international and domestic flights, located near Rinas about 20 kilometers northwest of the city center. The climate is temperate Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.