Albania’s National Museum “Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg” marks 44 years since its inauguration today.

The museum stands inside the historic Castle of Krujë, once the centre of the medieval Albanian state. The castle also witnessed three successive defeats of Ottoman armies in the 15th century.

Architects designed the museum as a memorial, bringing together architecture, history and medieval art. Historian Kristo Frashëri led the team that developed its historical content, while painter Bashkim Ahmeti headed the artistic team.

The museum houses original artefacts, historical documents, bibliographic works and authentic reproductions. Together, they trace Albania’s history from the 15th century onwards.

Its exhibition includes several pavilions dedicated to antiquity, the early Middle Ages, Albanian principalities, Ottoman occupation and resistance. Other sections explore medieval castles, Skanderbeg’s chancellery, the library, the Hall of Princes and the museum’s artistic heritage.

Visitors can follow the history of Albania’s medieval principalities through ceramic, bronze, iron and copper objects. The collection also features original icons, period swords and a bell dating back to 1462.

The museum’s curved wall frescoes draw inspiration from Byzantine art. They depict key moments in Skanderbeg’s history, from his return to Krujë to the unification of Albanian principalities.

The museum also offers guided tours in Albanian and English. These help visitors explore Skanderbeg’s legacy and learn more about the national hero whose life and achievements have inspired historians, writers and artists around the world.

To mark the anniversary, the “Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg” Historical Museum has shared a historical chronicle recalling its inauguration.