Zekate house & outdoor cozy bar — Attraction in Bashkia Gjirokastër

Zekate House is the most preserved and beautiful example of ottoman twin tower house. It belonged to a wealthy at the time Zakate family which today continues to own, operate and manage the museum. A family member warmly welcomes tourists to the house. It has been beautifully preserved and barely renovated so most of it is still original and provides good visibility to the lifestyle at the time. The house is located on the high ground with magnificent views of the city and the castle. The top floor has the principal room which is the grandest of these dwellings with frescoed walls, a carved ceiling and an ornate fireplace. The entry is 250 Leke or 2 Euro per person. Off season it is almost a private visit. The house has a plaque in the front with some background and in the house but otherwise limited information is available about the house so it is recommended finding it online or coming prepared. It requires some walking uphill to reach the house so good shoes are a plus....

What a fabulous house to visit when in Gjirokastër. The owner is such a lovely man who made us feel very welcome. A really interesting house to visit with splendid views too. Gorgeous rooms. The cafe/coffee area outside is lovely and relaxing again with lovely views. It wss probably the best coffee we had had in Albania! It was an added bonus that fabulous blues music was being discreet music was playing which added to the ambiance. Definitely worth making the effort...

It was my second time visiting the house, and I had the same sensation as back in 2022. From the rooftop where you have the master's chair, the view of the village is exceptional. The old stony roofing seems to narrate a story. It carries a lot of history and how different the rich and the poor (slaves) were. It is in perfect shape, and you have clear explanations in English. The bar is a must stop by after visiting the house. It has a great view of the...