Tirana Mosaic

Overview

The Tirana Mosaic (Mozaiku i Tiranës) is a 3rd-century Roman floor mosaic discovered in 1972 during the construction of a government building. Depicting geometric and floral patterns typical of late antiquity, it is now preserved and displayed beneath a glass floor in a modern building.

Highlights

• Roman Antiquity: One of the few visible Roman-era remains in Tirana, dating to the 3rd century AD.
• In-Situ Preservation: The mosaic is displayed exactly where it was found, beneath protective glass.
• Geometric Patterns: Intricate polychrome patterns of interlocking circles and vegetal motifs.

History

The mosaic was part of a Roman villa or public building in what was then the Illyrian-Roman settlement of Tirona. Discovered during construction in 1972, it was preserved during the communist era and later made accessible to the public.

Visitor Tips

• Quick stop — viewable in a few minutes.
• Combine with nearby Skanderbeg Square sights.
• Duration: 10–15 minutes.