Title

Author(s)

Franc Shllaku

Affiliation

Catholic University “Our Lady of Good Counsel”, Tirana

DOI

https://doi.org/10.65686/XPCR4717

Keywords

Mausoleum, Symbolism, Transformation

PP

872-879

How to Cite

Shllaku, Franc. “The Pyramid of Tirana From the “Mausoleum” of the Albanian Communist Dictator to a Cultural Hub.” In Proceedings of the International Conference on Adaptive Reuse. Volume 1, edited by Andrea Crudeli, Francesca Molle, and Emanuele Carrai, 872–879. Firenze: STH Press, 2026.

Abstract

This research aims to highlight the transformation of one of Albania’s most iconic buildings: the Pyramid of Tirana. Its name, form, and symbolism take us back to 1988, the year of its construction. Although the main purpose is to study architecture independently of its political history, the latter is essential to understanding the building’s evolution. From 1945 to 1990, Albania was under a dictatorial regime that significantly shaped its history and architecture. After the dictator’s death in 1985, four architects were commissioned to design a monumental structure symbolizing his eternity. The resulting “mausoleum” was intended to make a strong statement both visually and within the city’s urban fabric. The concept incorporated symbolic elements: the pyramid shape referencing resurrection in Ancient Egypt, converging lines evoking sun rays through clouds, and an eagle-shaped plan representing Albania’s national emblem. Following the regime’s fall in 1991, the building lost its original function and underwent several uses before falling into decay. In the early 2000s discussions about its future emerged, dividing public opinion between those favouring demolition, seeing it solely as a symbol of dictatorship, and those advocating for its preservation and adaptive reuse. Ultimately preserved, the Pyramid’s redevelopment was led by Dutch firm MVRDV, transforming the former mausoleum into an inclusive cultural centre. The original concrete structure, echoing its communist past, was retained and complemented by new coloured volumes hosting educational spaces, cafés, and exhibition areas. Accessible ramps were added, allowing people to walk on the roof and experience the building as an urban meeting point. Opened in 2023, the project successfully converted a controversial monument into a dynamic place for youth and the wider community. This paper analyses the design strategies for adaptive reuse, the social impact of the transformation, its contribution to sustainable urban development, and integration within Tirana’s contemporary context.

Edited by
Andrea Crudeli
Francesca Molle
Emanuele Carrai

Publisher
STH Press, Firenze

ISBN Paperback – 9791281661141
ISBN Ebook – 9791281661158
DOI – https://doi.org/10.65686/SISY7263

Year
2026

Proceedings of
International Conference on Adaptive Reuse
hosted by The University of Pisa, Italy
15-19 September 2025, at the Gispoteca di Arte Antica dell’Università di Pisa.