- Address: Rruga Kala, Krujë, Albania
- Phone: +355 511 24485
- Website: muzeumetkruje.gov.al
- E-mail: muzeu.gjkskenderbeu@yahoo.com
- Opening hours: May-September from 9.00 to 18.00, Monday - closed
- Ticket price: 200 Albanian lek
One of the most visited places in Albania is the Skanderbeg Museum, which was named after the national hero of the country, George Kastrioti (Skanderbeg).
History of the museum
The Skanderbeg Museum is located in the city of Kruja inside a restored fortress, which served as a fortification at the time of the Ottoman Empire. Kruya itself is considered a city of military glory. In the XV century Albania was subjected to frequent raids by soldiers of the Ottoman Empire. Then it was Prince George Castriotti who raised the insurrection against the invaders and, thanks to this fortress, was able to resist the three sieges of the Turkish army. He hoisted a red flag on the fortress, on which was depicted a black two-headed eagle. It is this banner, which embodies the struggle of the Albanians for freedom, subsequently became the national flag of Albania .
The idea of building the Skanderbeg museum belongs to Professor Alex Bud. The decision to build was made in September 1976, and the project was worked by two Albanian architects - Pranvera Hoxha and Pirro Vaso. The first steps in the construction of the Skanderbeg museum were made in 1978, and on November 1, 1982, its grand opening took place.
Features of the museum
The fortress, which currently houses the Skanderbeg Museum, rises on rocks at an altitude of about 600 meters above sea level. From here you can enjoy stunning views of Kru. The four-story building of the museum is built of white stone and externally stylized as a fortress. The tour of the museum begins with the history of peoples who have long lived in Albania. Gradually, the guide switches to Skanderbeg's personality and his exploits. All exhibits are exhibited in chronological order, which allows to demonstrate the life path of this brave warrior.
The interior space of the Skanderbeg museum is kept in the spirit of the Middle Ages. Here you can find the following exhibits:
- mythical shields;
- flags and military standards;
- armor;
- ancient artifacts.
The most valuable exhibits of the Skanderbeg museum are on display in oak racks. Particular attention deserves a copy of the famous helmet, which crowns the goat's head. The original of the helmet, once owned by Prince Scanderbeg, is exhibited at the Museum of Art History in Vienna. The tour of the Skanderbeg museum is intended for those who want to get acquainted with the military past of Albania and imbued with its national idea.
How to get there?
The Skanderbeg Museum is located in the heart of Albania - in the city of Kruja. You can get to Krui by the motorway Shkoder through the city of Fusha- Kruja. Just keep in mind that there is always an active traffic on this track, so there are often traffic jams in which you can stand up to 40 minutes. The road to the city winds serpentine. You can get to the Skanderbeg Museum by two walking trails, along which there are trading tents.
| | |
| | |
