Durrës Great Mosque

Mosque in Durrës

Mosque In Durres
CC BY-SA 4.0 / GentiBehramaj

At the heart of Iliria Square, the Great Mosque of Durrës — also known as the New Mosque — rises as both a place of worship and a symbol of Albania's resilience. Commissioned by King Zog I in 1931, it was originally built on the site of an older Ottoman mosque, combining modern design with traditional Islamic architecture. When first completed, it was the largest mosque in Albania, marking a new era of national confidence during the country's short-lived monarchy.

For travelers, the mosque is one of the top sights in Durrës, offering insight not just into religious life, but also the city's political and cultural transformations over the past century. Its central location makes it a great place to visit on a walking tour of Durrës, where the spiritual and civic heart of the city come together in one impressive square.

History and Significance of Great Mosque (New Mosque)

The Great Mosque was built in 1931 under the direction of King Zog I, replacing an earlier Ottoman mosque that had long served the Muslim community of Durrës. Reflecting a blend of Albanian national architecture and Islamic tradition, it quickly became one of the city's defining landmarks. When it opened, it was not only the largest mosque in Albania but also a symbol of modernization and progress during Zog's reign.

However, the mosque’s history mirrors Albania’s turbulent 20th century. In 1967, under Enver Hoxha’s communist regime, the building was closed, its minaret torn down, and its religious function abolished as part of the country’s campaign against religion. For decades, it was repurposed for secular activities, even serving as a base for youth organizations. After the fall of communism, the mosque was reopened in 1993, marking a powerful moment of restoration and renewal for the city’s Muslim community. Today, the Great Mosque stands as a testament to faith’s endurance through political and cultural upheaval.

Things to See and Do in Great Mosque (New Mosque)

Visitors to the Great Mosque can appreciate both its historical legacy and its central role in modern Durrës life. The mosque dominates Iliria Square, its clean lines and white walls standing in contrast to the bustling streets and surrounding cafés. Though its interior is modest compared to grand Ottoman examples elsewhere in the Balkans, it offers a serene space for reflection and prayer. Non-Muslim visitors are welcome to admire the mosque's architecture from outside, particularly its graceful dome and reconstructed minaret.

Nearby, the square itself is one of the city's most vibrant public spaces, filled with shops, restaurants, and people meeting at all hours of the day. The mosque's location near major landmarks — including the Venetian Tower and Durrës Castle — makes it easy to include as part of a cultural stroll through the city. For photographers, the building's symmetry and position against the open square make it one of the best places to visit in Durrës for capturing urban life and spiritual heritage in one frame.

How to Get There

The Great Mosque is centrally located in Iliria Square, easily reachable on foot from most parts of the city center. Durrës' main bus stops and taxi ranks are nearby, making it accessible from the port or beachfront. Travelers coming from Tirana can take a bus or taxi to Durrës, a journey of around 35–45 minutes.

Parking is available in several nearby streets and small car parks close to the square, though spaces can be limited during peak hours. 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. Its central position makes it ideal to visit alongside other attractions in Durrës’ historic core.

Practical Tips on Visiting Great Mosque (New Mosque)

  • Best time to visit Great Mosque: Early morning or late afternoon for quieter moments and better light.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Free; donations welcome.
  • Opening hours: Generally open daily, except during prayer times when access is restricted to worshippers.
  • Official website: None; details available through Durrës Municipality.
  • How long to spend: 15–30 minutes.
  • Accessibility: Steps at the entrance; limited wheelchair access.
  • Facilities: None inside; cafés and public amenities nearby.
  • Photography tip: Capture the mosque from across Iliria Square for the best full-view shot.
  • Guided tours: Sometimes included in local walking tours of central Durrës.
  • Nearby food options: Plenty of cafés and restaurants in Iliria Square and along nearby boulevards.

Is Great Mosque (New Mosque) Worth Visiting?

Yes. The Great Mosque is not just a place of worship but a key symbol of Durrës’ identity — blending modern history, royal ambition, and spiritual resilience. Even if you only view it from the outside, its story adds depth to any exploration of the city. For those interested in Albania’s cultural diversity and historical transitions, it’s one of the most meaningful stops you can make.

FAQs for Visiting Great Mosque (New Mosque)

When was the Great Mosque built?
It was commissioned by King Zog I in 1931 and completed shortly after.

Why is it called the New Mosque?
Because it replaced an earlier Ottoman mosque that once stood on the same site.

Was the mosque destroyed during communism?
Yes, it was demolished in 1967 and later rebuilt and reopened in 1993.

Can non-Muslims visit the mosque?
Visitors are welcome to view it from outside and may enter respectfully outside of prayer times.

Where is the mosque located?
In Iliria Square, the main square in central Durrës.

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The Durrës Great Mosque appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Durrës!

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Visiting Durrës Great Mosque

Address: Rruga Aleksander Goga Durrës Albania
Durrës: 1 km

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