Et’hem Bey Mosque, Tirana

Mosque in Tirana

Ethem Bey Mosque And Clock Tower Tiana Front
CC-BY-SA-2.0 / Predrag Bubalo

Standing gracefully on the edge of Skanderbeg Square, the Et'hem Bey Mosque is one of the most cherished landmarks in Tirana and a serene reminder of Albania's Ottoman past. Built in the late 18th century, it survived the turbulent atheist campaigns of the 1960s that saw many religious sites destroyed across the country. Closed during communist rule, it reopened in 1991 to thousands of worshippers in a moving ceremony that marked the return of faith and freedom in Albania. Small yet elegant, this mosque remains one of the top attractions in Tirana for its beauty and resilience.

Visiting the Et'hem Bey Mosque offers a tranquil escape from the bustle of Skanderbeg Square. With its delicate frescoes and intimate design, it's a great place to visit on a walking tour of Tirana. The tall clock tower rising behind it adds to the charm, offering sweeping views of the city and square below—a reminder of how faith and daily life have coexisted here for centuries.

History and Significance of the Et’hem Bey Mosque

Construction of the Et'hem Bey Mosque began in 1794 under Mulla Bey and was completed in 1821 by his son, Haxhi Et'hem Bey, one of Tirana's most influential figures. It quickly became the spiritual and cultural heart of the growing city. During the communist era, Albania's regime declared the country officially atheist in 1967, closing down churches, mosques, and monasteries nationwide. The Et'hem Bey Mosque, however, was spared demolition—perhaps due to its artistic and historic value.

When the mosque reopened on January 18, 1991, without state permission, thousands of people gathered to pray, marking a turning point in Albania’s modern history. That moment is still remembered as a peaceful act of defiance against decades of suppression and a symbol of the country’s return to religious tolerance.

Things to See and Do in the Et’hem Bey Mosque

The mosque’s architecture is a masterpiece of Ottoman design. Its portico, adorned with intricate frescoes, stands out for its vibrant depictions of trees, waterfalls, bridges, and floral motifs—rare themes in Islamic art, which traditionally avoids representations of nature and landscapes. Inside, the beautifully painted dome glows with geometric and floral patterns that reflect a harmony of color and light.

Visitors are asked to remove their shoes before entering, a gesture that allows time to appreciate the calm and detail of the interior. Behind the mosque, the Clock Tower of Tirana offers an additional attraction. Dating to 1822, it was once the tallest building in the city and still provides stunning views across Skanderbeg Square for those who climb its narrow steps. Together, the mosque and clock tower form one of the most photogenic and historically rich corners of Tirana.

How to Get There

The Et'hem Bey Mosque is located directly on Skanderbeg Square in central Tirana, easily accessible on foot from nearby hotels and major attractions. Public buses and taxis stop frequently around the square, and parking is available along the adjacent streets for those arriving by car. If you are looking to rent a car in Albania I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Travelers coming from Tirana International Airport can reach the city center in about 25 minutes by taxi or airport shuttle. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Tirana on Booking.com.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Et’hem Bey Mosque

  • Best time to visit the Et’hem Bey Mosque: Early morning or late afternoon for quiet reflection and soft light.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Free, though donations are appreciated.
  • Opening hours: Typically open from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., except during prayer times.
  • Official website: Listed under Tirana’s tourism portal.
  • How long to spend: Around 20–30 minutes.
  • Accessibility: The mosque has a few steps but is generally accessible.
  • Facilities: Limited—restrooms available nearby on Skanderbeg Square.
  • Photography tip: Capture the mosque's exterior in the golden light of late afternoon, with the clock tower rising behind it.
  • Guided tours: Available as part of city or heritage walking tours.
  • Nearby food options: Several cafés and restaurants around Skanderbeg Square and Bulevardi Dëshmorët e Kombit.

Is the Et’hem Bey Mosque Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. The Et'hem Bey Mosque is one of the must-see places in Tirana for its beauty, symbolism, and history. It represents not only the city's Ottoman heritage but also the resilience of Albanian faith and culture through years of adversity. Even for non-religious visitors, its art and architecture make it an unforgettable part of any visit to the capital.

FAQs for Visiting the Et’hem Bey Mosque

Do visitors need to cover their heads?
Women are encouraged to wear a headscarf, and modest dress is appreciated for all visitors.

Can non-Muslims enter the mosque?
Yes, respectful visitors of all faiths are welcome outside of prayer times.

Is photography allowed inside?
Yes, but discreet and respectful photography is advised.

Can you climb the Clock Tower nearby?
Yes, it’s open to visitors for a small fee and offers panoramic views.

When was the mosque reopened to the public?
In January 1991, in a historic act of peaceful protest.

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The Et’hem Bey Mosque appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Tirana!

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Visiting Et’hem Bey Mosque

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