Unveiling the Secrets of Albania's Secret Police During the Cold War

In a quiet corner of the bustling streets of Tirana, the capital of Albania, lies an unassuming yet story-filled building—the House of Leaves Museum. Once the headquarters of the secret police and previously a maternity hospital, this building was originally constructed in the 1930s as a gynecological clinic. Though it appears to be an ordinary residence, it served for decades as a site where countless individuals were surveilled and interrogated. The name "House of Leaves" symbolizes the building's exterior, which is covered in vines and leaves, concealing the dark and secretive activities within.

The museum's exhibitions are divided into several thematic sections:
1. Surveillance and Monitoring Technology: This section showcases various old eavesdropping devices, hidden microphones, and recording equipment. Some of these devices were cleverly disguised as everyday items, such as shoes, radios, or telephones.
2. Interrogation and Document Archives: A reconstruction of original torture rooms, personal files, and records of many victims' stories are revealed for the first time. Handwritten reports, surveillance logs, and interrogation documents are also on display.
3. Interrogation Rooms and Cells: Part of the museum has been transformed into simulated cells, allowing visitors to experience the oppressive sense of isolation.
4. Political Propaganda and Cultural Censorship: This section features political posters, textbooks, and official media content from the communist regime.

The House of Leaves is not merely a place to exhibit historical artifacts; it serves as a living warning. The museum's design is both meticulous and somber, devoid of ornate decorations. Instead, it uses straightforward displays and a wealth of authentic materials to provoke deep reflection on the distortion of humanity.

Post by 祥.要去旅行 | Oct 8, 2025