Known as the Centre for Openness and Dialogue, COD is a new initiative in Albanian cultural life. It transmits a very important message, especially for a post-communist country, which amounts to having more transparency and collaboration between the government and the citizens. What’s amazing in this spot is that I can enjoy being in the most important governmental building of the country, the Prime Ministry, which a few years before was not just simply closed to the public, it was surrounded by a high and unwelcoming wall.

I find my way around COD in two ways: either using its vast collection of books & articles in the library or by being part of their cultural events that include expositions, discussions with artists or debates with domestic and foreign politicians. Thus, COD has a yearly calendar of events that is accessible on their official website. The library is completely open to the public and since few people are aware of the existence of this amazing place in the heart of Tirana, it also happens to be a beautiful quiet spot to read and work. I loved curling up with a good book and occasionally watching Tirana’s main boulevard through the window. There is also the possibility to watch films and projections in their “digital hall”, a functional exchange space.

With a large collection of books, also in foreign languages, and its irresistible appeal, I can imagine COD being high on the list of visitors!