Dollma Teqe

Mosque in Kruja

Dolma Tekke Kruja
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Martin Furtschegger

Dollma Teqe is a small yet spiritually significant Bektashi temple nestled within the southern edge of Kruja Castle’s complex in Albania. Originally built in 1789, it stands alongside the remains of the old citadel hamam, or Turkish bath, which has since been converted into a church. This juxtaposition of sacred spaces—Islamic, Christian, and Sufi—reflects the layered religious history of Kruja and the region’s enduring spirit of coexistence. The teqe itself is a cherished sanctuary of the Bektashi Order, a Sufi sect known for its mystical and inclusive approach to Islam.

The teqe has been lovingly maintained by the Dollma family since its founding, preserving its role as a spiritual and cultural landmark. Its interior is beautifully adorned with traditional decorations, including frescoes and calligraphy that evoke the contemplative atmosphere of Sufi worship. The site also contains the tombs of revered figures from the Dollma lineage, further anchoring its importance as a place of pilgrimage and remembrance. The enduring stewardship of the Dollma family has ensured that the teqe remains not only intact but vibrant with meaning and tradition.

One of the most captivating aspects of Dollma Teqe is the legend surrounding the knotted olive tree at its entrance. It is said that Albania’s national hero, Skanderbeg, personally planted this tree, imbuing the site with a symbolic connection to the country’s resistance and resilience. Whether myth or memory, the olive tree stands as a living monument to Kruja’s storied past, linking the spiritual legacy of the Bektashi with the patriotic fervor of Albania’s fight for independence. Visitors often pause beneath its branches, reflecting on the centuries of history that have unfolded in its shade.

Today, Dollma Teqe continues to serve as a beacon of spiritual devotion and cultural heritage. Despite periods of religious suppression, particularly during Albania’s communist era, the teqe has survived and been restored, most recently following the 2019 earthquakes. It remains open to pilgrims and tourists alike, offering a serene glimpse into the mystical traditions of the Bektashi faith and the enduring legacy of the Dollma family. As part of the broader historical landscape of Kruja Castle, Dollma Teqe enriches the narrative of Albania’s diverse and resilient identity.

The Dollma Teqe appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Kruja!

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