Ponder Albania’s Dark Past at Piramida

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Tirana, you’ve got to check out Piramida. This incredibly culturally important building was constructed in 1987 in honor of dictator Enver Hoxha. Although he died some years earlier, his family wanted to commemorate his memory with a major landmark.

After the fall of communism, the family lost control of the building and it was abandoned. Since 1991, discussions have been going on about what to do with it. Some people want it completely torn down, while others want it restored to become an important monument or fun place to hang out. Until a decision can be made, Piramida remains a hauntingly brutal reminder of a time gone by. Although you can’t go inside the building, you can see it from the outside. The smashed windows and graffiti tell a story of an angry community that’s taking back power.