10 Things to Do in Shkodër National Museum (Muzeu Kombëtar i Shkodrës), Shkodër, Albania
Shkodër National Museum (Muzeu Kombëtar i Shkodrës) is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the history and culture of Albania. Located in the city of Shkodër, the museum houses a vast collection of artifacts from the country’s past, ranging from prehistoric times to the present day. Here are 10 things you should do when visiting the museum:
1. Tour the Permanent Collection – The museum’s permanent collection consists of more than 5,000 artifacts, including sculptures, coins, and jewelry from the Illyrian, Roman, and Ottoman periods. You can also find a variety of artifacts from the Renaissance period, including furniture, paintings, and musical instruments.
2. Explore the Prehistoric Exhibit – This exhibit showcases a range of artifacts from the Paleolithic, Neolithic, and Bronze Age. Highlights include stone tools, pottery, and jewelry from the era.
3. Check out the Medieval Exhibit – This exhibit features a wide range of artifacts from the Middle Ages, including weapons, armor, and coins. You can also find sculptures and paintings from this era.
4. Learn about the Albanian Revolution – The museum’s Albanian Revolution exhibit showcases a range of artifacts from the period, including guns, flags, and documents. It also features a number of photographs and videos from the time.
5. Visit the Ethnographic Exhibit – This exhibit showcases a range of artifacts from the 19th and 20th centuries, including furniture, clothing, and jewelry. You can also find a variety of artifacts from the Albanian diaspora.
6. View the Numismatic Collection – The museum’s numismatic collection consists of more than 1,000 coins from the Illyrian, Roman, Ottoman, and modern periods. You can also find a variety of medals and banknotes from these eras.
7. Explore the Photography Exhibit – This exhibit features a range of photographs from the 19th and 20th centuries, including images of Albanian landscapes, people, and traditional customs.
8. Visit the Library – The museum’s library houses a vast collection of books, manuscripts, and periodicals related to Albanian history and culture. You can also find a number of rare books from the Ottoman period.
9. Participate in a Workshop – The museum offers a variety of workshops, including classes on traditional Albanian crafts, such as woodcarving, pottery, and weaving.
10. Attend a Lecture or Concert – The museum hosts a variety of lectures and concerts throughout the year, featuring a range of topics related to Albanian history and culture.
Whether you’re looking to explore the history and culture of Albania or simply to take in the sights and sounds of Shkodër, a visit to Shkodër National Museum (Muzeu Kombëtar i Shkodrës) is sure to be a memorable experience. With its vast collection of artifacts and its many educational programs, the museum is a must-see for any traveler to the area.