The Odeon of Bektashi Tirana
Religious particularities
One of the things that we are most proud of in Albania is without a doubt our religious tolerance. Since we have been through a rough communist period, where any form of religious practice was literally banned (by the Constitution!), we have learned to appreciate the freedom of religion more than anyone else. In this regard, what is very interesting to see in Tirana is definitely the Odeon of the Muslim Bektashi community. I have to specify that this is the world centre of all of Bektashism, since they were banned from Turkey more than 100 years ago and found refuge in our beautiful mountains.
In their premises I could enjoy the marvellous rose gardens which are breathtaking during spring, the tall and quiet Odeon, which is supposed to be a sort of mosque, although without a minaret, and the museum of Bektashism, which explains all the story of the sect, their predecessors and the Albanian leaders and which sums up nicely and clearly the mind-blowing story of how Tirana ended up being their world centre.
Bektashism is a very quiet and peaceful Muslim division and I could really feel this in the air. Their premises are the best place to relax, breathe some fresh air and learn something new.
Find your way with 165 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Tirana
Lift Steak & Rooftop Bar
Terrazza Aperol vibes
"Lift Steak & Rooftop Bar" is one of the newest steakhouse and rooftop bars in Tirana! Kind of reminds me of Terraza Aperol in Milano...
By
Adela
Hoxhallari
Piramida
My favourite meeting point
"Piramida" is the ultimate meeting place in the center of Tirana and one of the best spots to chill with a beer. It means different things for everyone...
By
Matilda
Karçanaj
Rubi Cakes & Specialty Coffee
A true hidden gem
The cakes, cheesecakes, and cupcakes are all made with hand-picked ingredients from all over the world, and have some interesting flavor combinations.
By
Ingrid
Xhaja
Mullixhiu
The new Albanian cuisine
Mullixhiu is one of the first restaurants that started the farm-to-table movement in Tirana, and it offers a tasting menu with a traditional touch.
By
Ingrid
Xhaja
Gelato la Nocciola
Italian Ice Cream Parlour
"Gelato la Nocciola" is an ice cream shop I really like in Tirana. They use the typical Italian methods to create their flavors. It's really worth it!
By
Ingrid
Xhaja
Votra
A place where moments become memories
The interior exudes a rustic charm, with rich wooden accents and a spectrum of colors, creating an atmosphere that is both lively and comforting.
By
Gentiana
Gjyshka
Kartodrom
A dose of adrenaline
Do you like go-karts? In "Kartodrom" in Tirana you can race against your friends or strangers at one of the best-known fun activities among locals!
By
Adela
Hoxhallari
Latitude
A place to embrace your inner child
“Latitude” is the first and the biggest indoor park for children and grown-ups - not only in Tirana but also in the Balkan area...
By
Adela
Hoxhallari
Le Chateau
A French chateau in Tirana
"Le Chateau" in Tirana is a recently opened coffee shop near Kavaja street - come here to experience Parisian vibes and try some classic board games!
By
Adela
Hoxhallari
Kapelet
1500 hats above your head
"Kapelet" is a new restaurant in Tirana with 1500 hats in the ceiling! It has an amazing view over the whole city, and the food is well cooked...
By
Adela
Hoxhallari
D'Angelo Chocolate & Coffee
A dose of sweetness
"D'Angelo Chocolate & Coffee" in Tirana offers without a doubt the city's finest. I love the pistachio waffle stick, and the seats are very comfortable!
By
Adela
Hoxhallari
Milky
The anti-diet club
"Milky" in Tirana is hands-down my favorite creperie in the city. Are you up for the #milkychallenge? It's harder than it looks!
By
Adela
Hoxhallari
Heading to Tirana?
165 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
Heading to Tirana?
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 165 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
Our team loves Tirana
Get to know our other Spotters from Tirana
As featured on:
