Albania, now a trendy tourist destination, is a country steeped in history and unique local traditions and customs that has remained a relatively unknown gem to the outside world for decades. Since the fall of communism, more and more foreigners have been flocking to this tiny country along the Mediterranean for its glistening beaches, alpine mountain passes, delicious cuisine and warm hospitality.
But did you know Albania is home to ancient craftsmanship techniques passed down from generation to generation? Handmade textiles, silver filigree jewelry, intricate woodcarvings and stunning ceramics are just a few examples of the artistry preserved throughout the centuries. These crafts are not just decorative; they tell the story of Albania’s past, reflecting the skills and artistic expression of the country’s diverse regions.
However, the rise of globalization and mass production threatens the survival of these unique traditions. Many artisans struggle to compete with cheaply made, imported products that flood the markets, making it harder for them to sustain their businesses. That’s why at Albanian Night, we are dedicated to preserving authentic craftsmanship and the country’s intangible cultural heritage.
Our Artisanal Hall, the largest souvenir shop in the Balkans, is home to over 10,000 products created by more than 600 local and diaspora Albanian artisans dedicated to promulgating time-honed traditions and craftsmanship.
The Artisanal Hall showcases high-quality, locally made souvenirs. Whether you want to take home a traditional Kruja qilim (rug), carefully-crafted silver filigree jewelry from Shkodër or local deserts like gliko from Përmet, the Artisanal Hall has them all.
Buying your souvenir at the Artisanal Hall in Tirana helps support traditional craftsmanship and local artists. While there are a few other notable bazaars and markets in Albania that are certainly worth a visit – such as the one in Kruja – many other locations in Albania that hawk souvenirs are actually selling items mass-produced in Turkey or China, completely severing the potential economic benefits of tourism from locals.
At Albanian Night’s Artisanal Hall, every single item is 100% locally made. We carefully curate our selection to ensure that we offer only authentic, handcrafted souvenirs that truly represent Albania’s artistic and cultural heritage. By purchasing handmade products that are created by local artisans, you help support the local artisanal economy and take home an authentic part of our heritage and culture.
Conveniently located in the heart of Tirana, just a few steps away from Skanderbeg Square, Albanian Night’s Artisanal Hall is the best place to purchase purchases on your next trip to Albania. Our knowledgeable staff are on hand to explain the significance of different motifs and products. We even have local artisans showcase how they create their products on different days!
All the items on display at the Artisanal Hall are exclusively made for Albanian Night; you won’t find cheap, mass-produced items here! Shopping at Albanian Night is a pleasant and memorable experience that you won’t want to forget any time soon.
Should you have any questions about the Artisanal Hall and where to buy souvenirs in Albania, don’t hesitate to reach out to us on WhatsApp. Happy shopping!
