Culture & history Tours Landmarks & monuments Guided tours Sightseeing

Walk through the abandoned prison cells and forced labor mines. Hear powerful stories of political prisoners who defied oppression. Reflect on the resilience of the human spirit of Mirdita mountains.

Highlights

• Explore the eerie ruins of a former labor camp for political prisoners
• Visit the nearby mines where prisoners were subjected to forced labor
• Experience the struggles of political prisoners during the communist regime

Description

Take a captivating day trip from Tirana to Spaç Prison, a chilling relic of Albania’s communist past. Once a notorious labor camp for political prisoners, Spaç stands as a haunting reminder of the repression and resilience that defined an era. On this guided tour, you will explore the ruins of the prison, learn about the daily struggles of those who lived there, and gain deep insight into Albania’s journey to freedom. Prison Introduction: Upon arrival, we will introduce you to the history of Spaç Prison, built in 1968 as a forced labor camp for political prisoners under Enver Hoxha's regime. Exploring the Ruins: Walking through the eerie, decaying prison cells where prisoners endured overcrowding, lack of sanitation, and brutal conditions. Learn about the prisoners who dared to resist, creating hidden messages or works of art as acts of defiance. The Forced Labor Mines: Explore the nearby mining sites where prisoners were forced to extract copper and pyrite under grueling conditions. Your guide will explain the hardships endured by those who worked in these mines—many of them political dissidents, intellectuals, and ordinary citizens. Interrogation and Torture: Visiting areas where prisoners were interrogated and tortured, with an emphasis on the psychological and physical toll of the regime’s efforts to break their spirits. This tour offers more than just a visit to a historical site. It’s an opportunity to connect with Albania’s past in a meaningful way, providing insight into the lives of those who suffered under a totalitarian regime. At Spaç, you’ll not only learn about political repression but also about the strength of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable hardship. By participating, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Albania’s communist legacy, and how its struggles continue to shape the country’s present. This is a rare opportunity to witness history firsthand, in one of Albania’s most significant and haunting locations

Includes

A guided tour highlighting the significance of this former communist-era political prison of Spac. Transportation to and from the site Admission to Spaç Prison Admission to Kisha e Shëlbuemit Admission to interactive exhibition The Present Past Access to all open areas and exhibitions

Important Information

• Wear comfortable walking shoes Bring water and snacks Be prepared for an emotional experience Respect the site's historical significance

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund