Tirana Mayor Defends National Theatre Demolition
Tirana's mayor Erion Veliaj defended the demolition of the National Theatre of Albania, arguing the building was not a proper theatre and had structural issues. The demolition, which began in May 2020, sparked protests and international criticism. Veliaj stated the new theatre will be built by Dutch firm Mecanoo and will include a larger auditorium and better facilities. The old theatre, built in 1939, was deemed unsafe and inadequate for modern performances. The mayor also discussed other urban development projects in Tirana, including the New Bazaar and the Skanderbeg Square renovation.
Key facts
- The National Theatre of Albania in Tirana was demolished in May 2020.
- Mayor Erion Veliaj defended the demolition, claiming the building was not a real theatre.
- The new theatre will be designed by Dutch architecture firm Mecanoo.
- The old theatre was built in 1939 and had structural issues.
- Protests occurred against the demolition.
- International criticism was directed at the demolition.
- Veliaj mentioned other urban projects like the New Bazaar and Skanderbeg Square.
- The new theatre will have a larger auditorium.
Entities
Institutions
- National Theatre of Albania
- Mecanoo
- Artribune
Locations
- Tirana
- Albania