The ‘Saraje’ Project
The Islamic Art Museum (I-AM) in the heart of Tirana, Albania at the historic Saraje Building, will safeguard, study, and celebrate Islamic material and intellectual heritage in Albania and the wider Mediterranean world—linking past craftsmanship with contemporary creativity and public learning.
On 17 September 2025, at the International Workshop organized by the Konak Institute, the Prime Minister of Albania, Mr. Edi Rama publicly announced that Sarajet will serve as the site of the future Museum of Islamic Art and announced the Government’s cooperation with the Konak Institute in its establishment. The event gathered a distinguished audience, including the Minister of Culture, Mr. Blendi Gonxhe, members of the Albanian Parliament, representatives of the Municipality of Tirana, diplomats, and senior figures from Albania’s cultural institutions.
The Rotterdam – based architect, Jesús Hernández, presented the museum’s preliminary vision: a sensitive restoration of the historic Saraje Building, complemented by a purpose-built adjacent structure to house archives, conference facilities, and galleries for rotating exhibitions. The ensemble is conceived as an open, accessible campus that meets contemporary standards of conservation, education, and public engagement.
Architectural Vision
Dr. Besnik Sinani, President of the Konak Institute, outlined the project’s trajectory and its intellectual and civic vision. Imam Saimir Ismaili, curator responsible for the collection and preservation program, spoke about his personal motivation and the urgency of protecting Albania’s Islamic heritage. Keynote speakers Princess Vittoria Alliata di Villafranca and Dr. Pietrangelo Buttafuoco, Director of the Venice Biennale, reflected on how Islamic art has been situated within European and Mediterranean cultural milieux—as a shared sacred language that has shaped the region. The workshop brought together local and international artists, historians, and curators, including Dr. Bilal Badat, Dr. Doan Dani, Prof. Ardian Isufi, and Prof. Edison Ceraj.
Voices from the Workshop
What Comes Next?
The project is envisioned for completion within five years, progressing through heritage restoration, construction of the new wing, collection care, and the development of research, education, and public programs.
