Clock Tower of Tirana
Tiranë
The Clock Tower of Tirana, located adjacent to the Et'hem Bey Mosque in the heart of Tirana, Albania, is a significant cultural monument dating back to the early 19th century. Constructed between 1822 and 1830 under the patronage of Haxhi Et’hem Bey and his father Molla Bey, the tower reflects Ottoman architectural influences with a Rococo decorative style. The tower originally featured a clock mechanism maintained by the renowned Tufina family, who were expert horologists. Over the years, it has undergone several renovations, notably in 1928 when a new German clock mechanism was installed after the original was looted during World War I. Despite sustaining damage during World War II, the tower was restored and resumed operation in 1946, later receiving an electric mechanism from China in 1974. Standing approximately 32.5 to 35 meters tall with 90 spiral stairs inside, the tower was once the tallest building in Tirana until 1970. Its architecture includes finely cut stone walls, a square base, and a dome reminiscent of the San Marco style. The tower holds inscriptions in Ottoman Turkish and Italian, revealing its historical ties and craftsmanship. Today, it remains a symbol of Tirana, open to tourists since 1996, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the city's resilient past.
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Tip: Visitors should consider exploring the Clock Tower during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons to avoid queues. Discounts may be available for students and seniors. Climbing the 90 spiral stairs provides rewarding views of Tirana's city center. The tower is accessible during daylight hours, and guided tours can enrich the experience with historical insights.
Interesting facts
- •The clock tower was once the tallest building in Tirana until 1970.
- •The original clock mechanism was looted by Austrian forces during World War I.
- •The bell of the tower was cast in Trieste in 1838 and is decorated with intricate floral motifs.
- •German forces damaged the tower and its bell during their retreat in World War II.
- •The tower features inscriptions in both Ottoman Turkish and Italian, reflecting its multicultural history.
History
The Clock Tower of Tirana was built in the 19th century between 1822 and 1830 by Haxhi Et’hem Bey, alongside the nearby Et'hem Bey Mosque.
It originally housed a clock mechanism maintained by the Tufina family until 1973.
The tower underwent significant renovations in 1928, including the installation of a new German clock after the original was looted in World War I.
It sustained damage during World War II but was repaired and resumed operation in 1946.
In 1974, an electric clock mechanism from China was installed.
The tower was comprehensively restored in 2010, preserving its historical inscriptions and architectural features.
Place Guide
Ground Floor and Base1822-1830
The tower stands on a 1-meter-high plinth with a square base measuring approximately 4.27 x 4.28 meters, built from stones sourced from the nearby hills of Priskë. This sturdy foundation supports the entire structure and marks the transition from the base to the main tower.
Spiral Staircase1822-1830
Inside the tower, a spiral staircase with 90 steps leads visitors to the top, offering a unique architectural feature and an engaging climb that culminates in panoramic views of Tirana.
Clock MechanismVarious (1822-1974)
Originally maintained by the Tufina family, the clock mechanism has been replaced multiple times, including a German mechanism installed in 1928 and an electric mechanism from China in 1974. The mechanism powers the tower's clock and a network of street clocks in Tirana.
Bell and Dome1838
The bell, cast in 1838 at the Accerboni brothers' foundry in Trieste, is decorated with floral motifs but is currently cracked and damaged from World War II. The dome atop the tower gives it a San Marco architectural style, adding to its distinctive silhouette.
Contact
Phone: 04 580 0419
