ALBANIA
Country Overview:
"Tirana may not be a top 10 travel destination, but it's a vibrant and intriguing European capital with a unique character."
I had a wonderful time in Tirana. It's a funky little city with colorful buildings, striking murals, and a palpable desire to progress while grappling with its complex history. While traditional Albanian cuisine might be a bit elusive, the abundance of gyros and sweets kept me satisfied. The prevalence of Italian speakers and bilingual menus was a pleasant surprise, reflecting Albania's cultural connections. While I might not rush back to Tirana, I'm genuinely glad I experienced its charm. Celebrating my 31st birthday here made it an unforgettable trip.
History Museum
The National Museum of History was opened in 1981 (and feels like it was) and is 27,000 square meters in size.
Above the entrance of the museum is a large mural mosaic titled The Albanians that depicts purported ancient to modern figures from Albania's history. The museum includes the following pavilions: the Pavilion of Antiquity, Middle Ages, Renaissance, Independence, Iconography, National Liberation Antifascist War, Communist Terror, and Mother Teresa.