Skenduli House

A visit to Skenduli House is a must if you wish to learn about the greatest model of local architecture from the nineteenth century. Everything is completely unique, making this the most genuine building in Gjirokastër. This is the best preserved home in Gjirokastër's ancient city, dating back more than 300 years (built in 1823).

Nasip Skenduli, the house's owner and a descendent of the family that built it, is a fantastic storyteller. He will spend years explaining everything about the house and the preservation procedure. During the Soviet era, it was the original Ethnographic Museum. However, now that the mansion has been returned to its original owner, it is available to the public.

What makes Skenduli House so unique? Its structure indicates that this was one of the wealthiest residences in Gjirokastër, since it contained 9 fireplaces (the more fireplaces, the wealthier the family); 6 baths, 12 rooms, 44 doors, 64 windows, and 4 hammams (Turkish bath). The authorities have not yet repaired this house, according to the owner. Because many of the artifacts are genuine, this home is the most authentic and unique in Gjirokastra. It is near to the Ethnographic Museum and the old residence of Albanian dictator Enver Hoxha.

Location: Gjirokastër, Albania