The Pyramid of Tirana is an iconic monument of the Albanian capital that stands as a reminder to Communism’s near-crushing power. The enormous building, which has been largely disliked for its monstrously unattractive architecture, has nevertheless become one of Tirana’s most important symbols in terms of its historical, cultural and political representation.
Originally constructed in 1988 by the architects Pranvera Hoxha (the daughter of Enver Hoxha), Klement Kolaneci, Pirro Vaso and Vladimir Bregu, the Pyramid was intended to serve as a Mausoleum and Museum for the leader of Albania’s Communist regime. However, with the fall of the regime after 1992, the Pyramid underwent several changes in purpose. It served as a conference hall, a humanitarian centre during NATO headquarters in Kosovo around 1999 and Top Chanel’s headquarters later on.
By today however, it stands primarily neglected – covered in graffiti and surrounded by homeless encampments – having been left to crumble year after year since its completion more than three decades ago. In this sense Ala Yanni portrays it as ‘a relic from another era’. Nevertheless, despite various attempts from the government to do away with it entirely so as to make way for newer constructions, local people have challenged such demolishment votes underlined by their wish to preserve their heritage.
In recognition of this sentiment and desire for preservation however, there have been plans put forth aiming to revitalize and transform the pyramid into a multi-functional centre dedicated to technology, culture and art. This project is being currently carried out by MVRDV architects who seek to turn the dilapidated structure into something new without all together losing sight of its symbolic value within Tirana’s cityscape.
