The Clock Tower of Tirana began to be built by Haxhi Et’hem Bey in 1822 and ended with the contribution of wealthy families of Tirana. Initially, the height of the tower was 30 m and the clock consisted of a winding mechanism and a brass bell, the number of whose strikes indicated the time because there was no field and hand. Its assembly was done by the Tufina family, mentioned in connection with the watches. At certain heights, it was equipped with small turrets for ventilation, lighting and protection. In 1928, the Tower changed its shape and got the look it has today. It was raised 5 meters more, reaching 35 m, a balcony was made, 4 clock faces with hands were mounted and a Venetian-type roof was installed. In the framework of the modernization of Tirana, the Albanian state bought a time clock in Germany. Since the tower has accompanied the development of the city, this was also reflected in its appearance, where the first half is of the Ottoman style, the entire part carved with stones, while the balcony above is of the Western style. In the 1930s, the Tower was illuminated for the first time at night. During World War II, it was damaged, but was repaired in July 1946. Until 1970, it was the tallest building in the capital. The lower part, built with thick stone walls, had wooden stairs to climb to the upper rooms. During the restoration interventions, the wooden stairs were replaced with metal stairs. The Clock Tower is a symbol of the emblem of the Municipality of Tirana and together with the Et’hem Beu Mosque forms a unique architectural ensemble.
Address: Street 28 Nentori, Tirane
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