Besa Museum in Tirana: Finalist for World Architecture Festival Award

The “Besa” Museum project in Tirana has been selected as a finalist for the prestigious “World Architecture Festival” award, positioning it alongside globally acclaimed architectural projects.

 This museum marks a significant milestone in Tirana’s urban development and architectural landscape. Designed by Switzerland-based Oppenheim Architecture, the “Besa” Museum will be housed in the historic Libohova House near Tirana’s Castle and Toptani family residences. This transformational project aims not only to showcase modern architectural dimensions but also to honor Albania’s connection to its cultural identity.

The museum’s inspiration stems from the Albanian tradition of “besa,” It represents a code of honor, and can mean to give an oath or make a promise. When someone is given your “besa” it means that he or she is under your protection.

The museum aims to highlight the nation’s commitment to sheltering Jews from Nazi persecution during World War II. Guided by the principles of besa, Albania emerged as the only European country to have more Jews after World War II than before it, a testament to its unwavering resolve in protecting every Jewish resident from Nazi forces.

The “Besa” Museum seeks to preserve and reinterpret a cultural monument, blending historical preservation with contemporary architectural expression. It aims not only to display cinematic images but also to serve as a hub for cultural dialogue and artistic exploration, inviting visitors to reflect on themes of tolerance, solidarity, and humanism. Discussions with the Israeli government are underway to integrate Hebrew culture and history into the museum’s narrative.

The “Besa” Museum is the second of its kind after Vlora, commemorating the efforts of Albanians in protecting Jews during the Holocaust. While Vlora highlights the survival stories of the Jewish community, Tirana’s vision is to integrate a historic house monument with modern architectural design, setting an ambitious precedent in cultural preservation and contemporary expression.