After visiting some of the other museums in Albania, such as the eye-catching National Historical Museum near the Skanderbeg square, and the Bank of Albania Museum, I wanted to visit this Natural Science Museum. (Muzeu i Shkencave të Natyrës) Most people I’ve talked to hadn’t heard of it, or weren’t familiar, so I wanted to see what it was all about and report back.
I’d recommend budgeting about 30-60 minutes to explore and learn more about the ecosystem and biodiversity of Albania, especially if you plan to travel to Northern or Southern Albania.
Getting There
On a sunny afternoon, I embarked on a journey to the Museum of Natural Sciences in the east. I opted for the Green Line bus, which conveniently dropped me off within walking distance of the museum. The 15-30 minute walk was well worth it, as I was eager to explore this lesser-known gem. (It is a bit farther away from the center of Tirana and Blloku area than other museums.)
Finding the entrance was a bit of a challenge, and I ended up walking around the block, then in the wrong direction, trying to see the entrance. Look for this gate and sign, and you’ll be able to enter there. I’ve pinpointed the location of the Museum entrance on Google Maps here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/1PZ1s5hbkTVVHnTx9
There’s also a guard box with a security guard sitting beside this gate, so if you’re having trouble with the door, they may be able to help.
After entering the gate, you’ll be in the parking lot and see the museum entrance. The door is between the benches on the right side. After entered, you can find an employee to purchase a ticket.
Choosing the Right Time to Visit
I strategically planned my visit for a Monday morning, anticipating it would be the least busy day. My assumption proved correct, as I found the museum to be pleasantly quiet. (There were 2 other guests when I was there.) I arrived around 10 or 11 a.m., allowing myself ample time to absorb the atmosphere and take in the exhibits at my own pace.
Initial Impressions
Upon entering the museum, I was greeted by a friendly security guard and an employee who sold me a ticket for 50 Albanian lek. Please note that it appears they only accept cash, so be prepared accordingly. The ticket price was a steal, considering the wealth of information and exhibits on display. (50 Lek, about 50 cents.)
The Museum’s Aesthetic
The Museum of Natural Sciences exudes an old-world charm, with many of its exhibits dating back to an earlier era. Everything was meticulously preserved, showcasing the dedication of the museum’s staff. The two-floor layout was a pleasant surprise, with a diverse range of exhibits that left me fascinated. From plenty of fish, to birds, it highlighted the diversity of Albania’s Ecosystem.
I’ve translated the sign above:
| First Floor | Second Floor |
| Room 1 Sponges (Porifera) Cnidarians (Cnidaria) Whales Dolphins Seals Eagles | Room 1 Insects (Insecta) Arthropods (Arthropoda) |
| Room 2 Land Birds (Aves) Mammals (Mammalia) | Room 2 Fish Mollusks (Mollusca) Echinoderms (Echinodermata) Reptiles (Reptilia) Amphibians (Amphibia) Sea Turtles |
| Room 3 Water Birds (Aves) Pelicans |
The Whale Skeleton: A Showstopper
One of the most striking features of the museum is the large whale skeleton that greets visitors upon entry. This impressive display is surrounded by other exhibits, setting the tone for an engaging and educational experience. I was delighted to find that the museum had taken the initiative to provide English translations for many of the exhibits, making it easier for international visitors like myself to navigate.
Exploring the Exhibits
I spent around half an hour exploring the museum, capturing memories of the bird section, a sea turtle, and various other exhibits that highlighted the biodiversity of Albania. The exhibits covered a range of topics, from the ocean to caves, and from North Albania to Durres. Although the museum is not massive, they were able to arrange a wide variety of species and ecosystems on display. I spent a lot of time on Google and chatting with AI to learn more about each exhibit.
Tips for Visitors
A few things to keep in mind when planning your visit:
- Budget around an hour to explore the museum, as it is relatively small.
- Be prepared to use the Translate app on your phone to decipher some Albanian text
- Take advantage of the English translations provided for some exhibits.
Conclusion
The Museum of Natural Sciences in Tirana is a hidden gem that is definitely worth a visit. With its rich exhibits, affordable ticket price, and convenient location, it’s an ideal addition to any Tirana itinerary. So, take a stroll down the Green Line, and discover the natural wonders of Albania for yourself.
