Monuments & Cultural Sites – Tirana has many monuments and cultural sites scattered around the city to the surprise of first-time visitors. Communist-era objects contrast against modern glass-façade buildings with trendy bars and chic shops. Ottoman, Italian, Islamic, Stalinist and capitalist influences are all thrown together in no particular order, making their exploration great fun. Tirana received a facelift when old grey apartment blocks were painted in bright colours. The colourful façades have become a pleasant attraction in the city. Other cultural monuments include places of worship, the mosques and churches, each of which has a unique story behind it, waiting for you to discover.