“Aleksandër Moisiu” Cultural Center in Durrës undergoes major renovation

The “Aleksandër Moisiu” Cultural Center in Durrës is currently undergoing a full renovation, with funding provided by the Albanian government and the Ministry of Economy, Culture, and Innovation.

Why is this important: This comprehensive overhaul will improve both the physical and architectural aspects of the building, creating better working conditions for theater staff, employees, and artists who rely on the space for their activities.

Context: Durrës Mayor, Emiriana Sako, visited the site today to monitor the progress of the renovation, which is designed to transform the center into a state-of-the-art facility. “This renovation will create modern spaces for cultural and artistic activities in Durrës, while also providing high-quality services to both residents and art lovers,” she stated.

The renovation, which is expected to take two years to complete, is being carried out in phases to ensure that the ongoing operations of the theater and cultural center are not disrupted. The work is planned to be done in areas that do not interfere with the center’s activities or access for artists.

One of the highlights of the renovation is the installation of a unique facade, which has never before been used in Durrës. Though it is uncertain whether similar facades have been employed in other cities like Tirana, the new design aims to give the building a distinctive appearance while minimizing disruption to its cultural functions.

Project managers shared additional details about the ongoing work. “The area dedicated to the actors has been fully completed, including sublayers, layers, and the suspended ceiling. All underground infrastructure, including electrical and hydraulic systems, has been installed. We’ve also integrated an aspiration system into the ceiling that runs along the entire perimeter of the building,” they explained.

Particular attention is being given to the theater’s acoustics, which are considered among the best in Albania. The renovation includes advanced heating and cooling systems, as well as specialized acoustic elements to enhance the sound quality and overall functionality of the venue. “The goal is to ensure that this investment lasts for decades, as it is the first of its kind,” said Sako.