Marubi National Museum of Photography | Shkoder

The Marubi National Museum of Photography (Muzeu Kombëtar i Fotografisë Marubi) is a cultural gem located in Shkodër, Albania. It is the country's first photography museum and one of its most significant cultural institutions, showcasing a rich history of photography through the lens of the Marubi dynasty and other notable Albanian photographers.

Historical Background

The Marubi Legacy

• The museum is named after Pietro Marubi, an Italian photographer who moved to Shkodër in the mid-19th century and is considered the founder of professional photography in Albania.
• In 1856, Pietro established the first photography studio in Albania, the Marubi Studio (Dritëshkronja), pioneering photography as an art form in the region.
• After Pietro’s death, the studio was inherited and expanded by his apprentice Kel Kodheli (later Kel Marubi) and subsequent generations of the Marubi family.

The Marubi Archive

• The museum's collection is built around the Marubi Photographic Archive, which consists of over 500,000 glass plate negatives spanning from the mid-19th to the mid-20th century.
• The archive captures Albania’s transformation over a century, documenting historical events, cultural traditions, and everyday life.

Establishment of the Museum

• Officially opened in 2016, the museum was created to preserve and exhibit the Marubi archive and other historical photographic works, elevating the art of photography in Albania.

The Collection

Pioneering Photography

• Early works by Pietro Marubi include portraits, landscapes, and scenes of everyday life, showcasing the artistry and technical skill of 19th-century photography.

Historical Documentation

• The Marubi collection provides a visual chronicle of Albania’s history, including:
  • Ottoman-era Shkodër and the transition to modern Albania.
  • Key events such as the Albanian independence movement (early 20th century).
  • Political and social changes under the Communist regime.

Cultural Portraits

• The archive is renowned for its portraits of Albanians in traditional costumes, offering insight into regional and ethnic diversity.

Kel and Gegë Marubi’s Contributions

• Kel Marubi introduced advanced photographic techniques, while Gegë Marubi (Kel’s nephew) modernized the studio in the 20th century, capturing urbanization and societal shifts.

Exhibition Spaces

Permanent Collection

• Displays a curated selection of glass plate negatives, vintage cameras, and other photographic tools used by the Marubi dynasty.
• Features iconic portraits, landscapes, and ethnographic studies.

Temporary Exhibitions

• The museum hosts rotating exhibitions showcasing works by other Albanian and international photographers, as well as thematic collections from the archive.

Multimedia and Interactive Displays

• Includes digital projections and touchscreens that allow visitors to explore the archive in detail, providing a modern and engaging experience.

Architectural Design

• The museum is housed in a beautifully restored building in Shkodër's city center, blending traditional and modern architectural elements.
• The interior design emphasizes minimalism, allowing the photographs and artifacts to take center stage.

Educational and Cultural Role

Workshops and Lectures

• The museum organizes photography workshops, lectures, and seminars to promote artistic and technical skills in photography.

Research and Preservation

• It plays a crucial role in preserving Albania’s photographic heritage and is a resource for researchers and historians.

Outreach Programs

• Collaborates with international institutions to promote cultural exchange and elevate the global appreciation of Albania’s photographic history.

Visiting the Museum

Location

• The museum is located in the heart of Shkodër, making it easily accessible for tourists exploring the city.

Hours and Admission

• Open year-round, with extended hours during peak tourist seasons. Tickets are affordable, and discounts are often available for students and seniors.

Guided Tours

• Visitors can opt for guided tours to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the Marubi archive.

Nearby Attractions

• Combine your visit with other Shkodër landmarks, such as Rozafa Castle, Lake Shkodër, and the Lead Mosque.

Why Visit the Marubi Museum?

The Marubi National Museum of Photography offers a unique window into Albania’s cultural and historical evolution. It’s not just a museum but a treasure trove of stories told through the lens of one of the Balkans’ most influential photographic legacies. For art enthusiasts, historians, and casual travelers alike, it’s an inspiring destination that highlights the power of photography to document and shape a nation's identity.