Marubi National Museum of Photography

Stepping into the Marubi Museum in Shkodër is like unlocking a visual time capsule. Housed in a beautifully restored building designed by Kolë Idromeno—an Albanian artist, architect, and former student of the studio’s founder—it’s more than just a museum: it’s a bridge between eras, capturing over 150 years of Albanian life.

From a Studio to a National Treasure
In 1856, Italian artist Pietro Marubbi (later “Marubi”) settled in Shkodër and opened the first photography studio in the region. Three generations of photographers—Pietro, his student Kel, and Kel’s son Gegë—built an archive of over 500,000 negatives, documenting daily life, folklore, historical events, and even medical conditions.

By the 1970s, the private archive became state-owned. In 2016, that legacy found a renewed and modern home in the Marubi National Museum of Photography.

A Conversation Between Past and Present
Entering the museum, you’ll encounter “functional boxes”—sculptural display units that serve as exhibition spaces—set within the historic walls, preserving the original structure while introducing a contemporary museum experience.

These cleverly designed installations echo camera apertures and guide visitors through immersive themes—like the original studio, the darkroom, and the photo archive—creating a unique and multisensory journey.

Capturing Albania Through Time
The museum’s collection spans from the mid-19th century to the late 20th century—featuring everything from the earliest known Albanian photograph (circa 1858) to scenes of national independence, rural traditions, and everyday life in the Ottoman Empire. You’ll also see portraits of key figures, folk rituals, and even Albania’s first nude photography.

More Than Pictures
Marubi is culturally alive. Beyond its permanent collection, the museum hosts temporary exhibitions, workshops, educational programs, and talks—inviting locals and visitors alike to reflect, learn, and engage.

Plan Your Visit

• Location: Rruga Kolë Idromeno 32, in the heart of Shkodër.
• Hours: Typically open Tuesday to Sunday, from around 09:00 to 17:00 (some sources recommend checking ahead for Sunday’s hours).
• Admission: Modest entry fee of about 500 Lek.
• Why go: Whether you’re into art, history, photography, or simply curious—this museum offers a meaningful glimpse into Albania’s soul through the power of image.

Why It Resonates
Marubi isn’t just a repository—it’s a living memory. It shows how the ordinary becomes extraordinary when preserved with passion. From the lens of Marubi family photographers, everyday moments become narratives of identity, memory, and culture.