Cold War City Tour

Total Duration

• 3 Hours

Full description

Experience the captivating Cold War City tour, an immersive journey through the history and impact of a tumultuous period that shaped people’s lives. This tour is available year-round, providing an opportunity to explore the lasting effects of the Cold War.

The tour commences at the Cold War Tunnel, an intriguing structure that played a crucial role during the regime. Constructed in the 1970s, the tunnel was designed to serve as a shelter for communist leaders, safeguarding them in the event of an external attack. With its strategic location adjacent to the “Party Committee” building, which currently serves as the Municipality of Gjirokastra, the purpose of the tunnel becomes apparent.

Stretching over 1.5 km, the tunnel encompasses 50 rooms that were intended as living quarters and offices for the leaders. Inside, they coordinated military actions while benefiting from essential amenities such as a water tank, ventilation system, and electricity supply. Throughout the tour, you will uncover previously undisclosed stories, facts, and events that were intentionally kept hidden by the regime.

The next stop on the tour is the castle prison, commonly referred to as the “Prison of the 7 windows,” which operated until 1968. This prison witnessed the imprisonment of numerous intellectuals from Gjirokastra and beyond, subjected to harsh conditions in cold rooms. Many prisoners met tragic fates, either executed or disappeared without a trace. The prison stands as a chilling testament to the terror inflicted by the regime, its visual facade hiding the dark truths within.

Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, you will delve into the stories of those who endured their sentences within the prison’s walls. The tour provides insights not only into the experiences of the prisoners but also the narratives of regime supporters and those who served under the dictatorship.

Continuing the journey, the tour arrives at Enver Hoxha’s house, situated in the Palorto neighborhood. This house, which has been burned down and subsequently rebuilt five times larger, reflects the enigmatic and absurd nature of its former inhabitant. Today serving as the “Ethnographic Museum” of the city, the house offers an exploration of Enver Hoxha’s childhood and his subsequent role in leading Albania through a dark 50-year period of dictatorship.

Discover the cruelty, punishments, and vengeance inflicted upon adversaries during Hoxha’s regime, even extending to childhood friends. Gain an understanding of the hardships faced by those who believed in him, as well as the infidelities he perpetrated. The visit to Enver Hoxha’s house unveils a tumultuous history that sheds light on the complex dynamics of that era.

Concluding the tour, you will traverse the historic area of Gjirokastra, taking in the sights and sounds before reconvening in the meeting room for a relaxing coffee, providing an opportunity to reflect on the journey and share experiences.

Limitations

• To book this tour in Greek and French please let us know, one day in advance
• Minimum 1 Participant
• Maximum 10 Participants

Itinerary

• Starting Times 09:00 & 15:00
• Ending Time 12:00 & 18:00
• Tour language : English, Italian Greek, Spanish, French and Albanian

Meeting point

Cancellation Policy - Flexible

• Whenever you cancel 4 days or earlier than the confirmed activity starting date, your fee will be refunded for the entire activity charge.
• In case of cancellation within 48 and 96 hours before the scheduled activity starting date, you'll get 50% reimbursed.
• Those who cancel 48 hours or beyond are considered last-minute cancellations. There will be no refunds