Marubi National Museum of Photography

Table of Contents

Introduction

In the picturesque city of Shkodër, located in northern Albania, the Marubi National Museum of Photography offers a captivating window into the country’s cultural and historical landscape. This museum is not only a tribute to the art of photography, but also a chronicle of Albanian life as seen through the lenses of some of the country’s most iconic photographers. For visitors eager to immerse themselves in Albania’s past through powerful imagery, the Marubi Museum provides an enriching and unforgettable experience.

About the Museum

The Marubi National Museum of Photography was established to preserve and showcase the extensive photographic legacy of the Marubi dynasty, which began with Italian photographer Pietro Marubi in the mid-19th century. After fleeing political persecution in Italy, Pietro settled in Shkodër and opened the first photography studio in Albania in 1856. He went on to train a generation of local photographers, including his apprentice and successor, Mikel Kodheli, who later adopted the Marubi surname. The tradition was then passed down to Mikel’s son, Gegë Marubi, who studied photography in France and modernized the family’s techniques and style.

Today, the museum houses an extraordinary archive of more than 500,000 photographs, spanning from the 1850s to the early 2000s. These images document Albania’s social, cultural, and political transformations over a period of 150 years. Visitors can explore rotating exhibitions drawn from the collection, featuring portraits, landscapes, and historic events that reflect the everyday life and evolution of Albanian society. The museum also includes interactive installations and contemporary exhibitions that celebrate both the heritage and the future of Albanian photography.

Interesting Facts

The museum’s collection includes over 500,000 photographs, making it one of the richest photographic archives in Southeast Europe.
The earliest images date back to the 1850s and offer a rare visual history of the Balkans during the Ottoman period.
The museum is housed in a beautifully restored building in the heart of Shkodër, offering a modern exhibition space that honors traditional architecture.
The Marubi dynasty of photographers documented key moments in Albanian history, including the country’s independence, wars, and everyday life.
In addition to historical photographs, the museum features work by contemporary Albanian and international artists, fostering a dialogue between past and present.

Photo Gallery

Physical Location

Contact Details

Phone: +355 68 907 1797

Website: marubi.gov.al/

Facebook: facebook.com/marubimuseum

Conclusion

The Marubi National Museum of Photography is more than just a collection of images—it is a visual narrative of a nation’s journey through time. For visitors to Shkodër, a tour of this museum offers a meaningful and inspiring experience that connects them with the heart of Albania’s cultural identity. Through the lens of the Marubi family and their successors, guests can witness the resilience, beauty, and transformation of a people and place. Whether you are a photography enthusiast, a history lover, or simply a curious traveler, the Marubi Museum is a must-visit destination that promises to leave a lasting impression.