House of Leaves
Tiranë
The House of Leaves, known locally as Shtëpia me Gjethe, is a museum in Tirana, Albania, dedicated to commemorating the innocent victims who were spied on, arrested, prosecuted, sentenced, and executed during the communist regime. Housed in a two-story building dating back to 1931, it originally served as Albania's first private obstetric clinic. During the German occupation in World War II, it was used by the Gestapo. After the war, it became the headquarters for the secret surveillance operations of the Sigurimi, the communist state security service, until the regime's fall in 1991. The museum opened on May 23, 2017, and features 31 rooms that preserve and expose the harsh realities of political repression under communism. Its name derives from the ivy (leaves) that covers the facade of the building, symbolizing secrecy and the hidden nature of the surveillance activities. The museum also hosts educational programs and commemorative events that engage visitors with the history and human stories of that era, fostering remembrance and reflection.
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Astuce: The best time to visit the House of Leaves is during weekdays to avoid crowds and fully absorb the exhibits. Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially for group visits or educational programs. The museum offers educational activities and talks with former political prisoners, providing deeper insight into Albania's communist past. Visitors should allocate sufficient time to explore the 31 rooms and participate in interactive exhibits. Discounts may be available for students and groups. Check the official website for current opening hours and special events.
Faits intéressants
- •The museum is located in a building once used by the Gestapo during World War II.
- •It contains 31 rooms dedicated to exposing the surveillance and repression of the communist regime.
- •The name 'House of Leaves' comes from the ivy that covers the building's facade, symbolizing secrecy.
- •It won the European Museum of the Year Award in 2020 from the Council of Europe.
- •The museum hosts educational programs involving former political prisoners sharing their experiences.
Histoire
The building housing the House of Leaves was constructed in 1931 and initially functioned as Albania's first private obstetric clinic.
During World War II, the Gestapo used the premises under German occupation.
After the war, the building was repurposed as the headquarters for the Sigurimi's secret surveillance operations throughout the communist era until 1991.
Following the fall of communism, the site was transformed into a museum, opening officially on May 23, 2017, to honor victims of political repression and educate the public about Albania's totalitarian past.
In 2020, it was awarded the European Museum of the Year by the Council of Europe, recognizing its cultural and historical significance.
Guide du lieu
The Surveillance Rooms20th century
These rooms showcase the equipment and methods used by the Sigurimi to monitor and control the population, featuring original devices and documents.
The Interrogation Chambers20th century
Spaces where political prisoners were held and interrogated, preserved to convey the harsh realities of repression.
The Memorial Hall2017
A dedicated space honoring the victims who suffered under the communist regime, with personal stories and photographs.
Educational Program RoomsContemporary
Areas where visitors participate in talks and workshops, often including testimonies from former political prisoners.
Contact
Téléphone: 04 222 2612