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Et'hem Bey Mosque
Tirana and surrounding
Architecture,  Temples, Churches
Architecture, 
Temples, Churches

The locals have different names for the Et’hem Bey, so do thousands of tourists who come to the small country of Albania every year to see and understand the rich history and culture of the friendly people. But according to the rules of the Albanian language, the only correct pronunciation of this elegant religious building is Et’hem Bey.

The mosque is located in the historical center of the Albanian capital, Tirana, on the main city square named after Skanderberg. Despite its modest size, it is considered to be a symbol of religious freedom in Albania and one of the country's most important mosques. Construction of the religious building began in 1789 at the expense of an influential citizen Mullah Bey. This charitable gesture is evidenced by a memorial plaque located right outside the first door of the mosque. Unfortunately, the generous gentleman died in 1807 without ever seeing its beauty and grandeur. He only made the foundation of the building. The construction of the walls, dome, and minaret was continued by his son – Nakhchi Et’hem Bey. The mosque was named after him. The main construction was completed in 1823, but interior work continued until 1831. This Muslim gem of Albanian architecture is famous for its interior decoration.

The ceiling of the mosque is made in the form of a portico, and its walls are painted with landscapes. Images of houses and bridges, rivers and waterfalls, as well as trees are rare in Islamic culture. You can hardly find them in religious buildings. The dome of the mosque is decorated with surahs from the Quran written in a spiral and 99 names of Allah written on its very top.

Today the mosque is functioning and open to all people regardless of their nationality and faith. Mind that you will have to follow the traditions inside the building. For example, everyone has to take off the shoes at the entrance, and women must be wearing clothes and cover their heads. However, all these religious conventions are undoubtedly worth obeying for the sake of the great pleasure that every visitor will experience.

Address: AL, Sheshi Skënderbej

Published by

Oksana Shmakova

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