Tirana’s pyramid, originally built to glorify Albanian dictator Enver Hoxha, is undergoing a significant transformation into a technology hub for young people. In an effort to revitalize the monument and adapt it to the changing city, it has been transformed into an impressive white structure thanks to a collaboration between the Dutch architects of MVRDV and the Albanians of iRI. Starting next fall, the building will house cutting-edge courses in 3D modeling, programming, and digital design, providing Tirana’s teenagers with access to state-of-the-art materials and technology.
Originally conceived as a museum dedicated to Enver Hoxha after his death in 1985, the pyramid contains a large statue of the communist leader. However, the vision for the site has changed dramatically. Martin Mata, co-chair of the Albanian-American Development Foundation, notes that the pyramid is becoming an educational space for thousands of people rather than being dedicated to a single historical figure. Albania, like other Balkan countries, faces the challenge of a mass exodus of its citizens in search of economic opportunities due to low wages and high unemployment. Therefore, this transformation seeks to provide digital training opportunities for young Albanians and help stem this exodus.
The pyramid transformation project has required an investment of €15 million and is expected to welcome 4,000 young people per week. The initiative is part of a digital education program called Tumo, which has already been successfully implemented in cities such as Yerevan, Paris, Beirut, and Berlin. In addition to the courses, the building will have commercial spaces that will be rented out to companies in the technology sector, bars, and cafes. The revenue generated will be used to subsidize the courses and make them more accessible to Albanian families.
This transformation of Tirana’s pyramid not only seeks to provide educational and technological opportunities for young people but also to reflect Albania’s past and present. After the collapse of communism in 1991, the monument went through various stages, from NATO offices to abandonment. Now, its modern redesign and opening to the public represent a symbol of openness and progress for the country.