Science Museum

Opened in 1949, the Science Museum (Albanian: Museu i Shkencave Të Natyrës) is the only institution of its kind in the country. Unlike science museums elsewhere, the experience here is less than rewarding. No addition or restoration projects have been conducted in the museum for more than 60 years, and the building is now threatened by decay.

The museum features valuable Albanian flora and fauna exhibits under the authority of the University of Natural Sciences; a section dedicated to minerals under the authority of the Polytechnic University of Tirana; and a herbarium.

There are about 3000 exhibits on display, both local and foreign, including corals, different kids of fish, snakes and other reptiles; birds; a large variety of mammals; plants; and more. Despite its current condition, the museum is still a local favorite, and an important complex for a variety of scientific, academic, educational, and cultural projects. Schools and academics are referring to this institution for research, while tourists have the opportunity to learn more about Albania’s flora and fauna.

Feature image courtesy Wikipedia.