Tirana's Urban Transformation: Italian Architects Shape Albania's Capital

Tirana is undergoing a major urban transformation driven by Italian architects and international firms. Three master plans have been designed by Italians: Armando Brasini (1935), Gherardo Bosio (post-WWII), and Stefano Boeri (Tirana 2030). Boeri's plan focuses on eco-sustainability and aesthetics, already visible in the Riverside district. Dutch firm MVRDV renovated the Pyramid of Hoxha, while Danish firms BIG and 3XN have projects in the center and peripheries. Italian firms Archea and Mario Cucinella Architects have built skyscrapers. The city preserves its past, including fascist-era buildings and bunkers, rather than demolishing them. Prime Minister Edi Rama blocked the demolition of the National Theatre after protests. The university district Qyteti Studenti hosts many foreign private universities, and Italian entrepreneurs have opened restaurants. Cultural districts like Kino Studio District feature traditional wool workshops and converted garages for concerts. The Parku i Madh park hosts Open Air Tirana film screenings and concerts, including Sou Fujimoto's 'The Cloud' installation. Pazari i Ri bazaar retains Ottoman atmosphere. The city lacks a metro and railway, with only a symbolic locomotive remaining. The Mozaiku i Tiranes, a 3rd-century Roman mosaic, is preserved. Albania's EU accession prospects remain uncertain.