Villa of Albania’s former communist dictator transformed into cultural space and artist residency

The former residence of Albania’s communist-era dictator Enver Hoxha has been transformed into an open cultural space and artist residency. From now on, the villa, named Vila 31 Art Explora, will host Albanian and international artists for cultural events and artistic collaboration. The project is managed by the French foundation Art Explora, which has secured a 10-year lease to use the property.

Why is this important: After the fall of communism in 1991, the villa was used as a government facility for hosting state delegations but was left to deteriorate over the years. The transformation offers a unique opportunity for the public to access and explore the historic building while enjoying contemporary art. It also marks an important step in repurposing a site associated with Albania’s dictatorial past into a symbol of creativity and modern culture.

Context: Prime Minister Edi Rama and Minister of Economy, Culture, and Innovation Blendi Gonxhja attended the opening ceremony. Rama praised the transformation as a significant cultural milestone, noting that the villa’s historic elements and décor have been preserved while creating a dynamic space for artistic inspiration. He called the space a “home of modernist decadence,” symbolizing freedom and creativity that counters the repression of the past.

The residency provides artists with individual workspaces and shared areas for collaboration. Rama also highlighted other cultural projects in the pipeline, including a writer’s house in Gjirokastër, as part of Albania’s broader efforts to honor its history while building a future rooted in art and culture.

The agreement with Art Explora was formalized in 2023 during French President Emmanuel Macron’s first official visit to Albania. The transformation of Vila 31 into a center for contemporary art and cultural dialogue reflects Albania’s growing commitment to fostering international partnerships and investing in its cultural landscape.

Historic background: Enver Hoxha ruled Albania as a communist dictator from 1944 to 1985, creating one of the most oppressive regimes in Europe. His rule stifled free thought, banned religion, and isolated the country from the world. Art and culture were strictly controlled, serving only as propaganda tools for the regime. Any creative expression that deviated from state approved models and themes was harshly punished, leaving little room for individuality or innovation. It is this dark history and the contrast it provides with the model being applied today that makes the Art Explora experiment so special.