Ethnological Museum of Gjilan
Discover the rich tapestries, costumes, and crafts of the Gjilan region housed inside a stunning 19th-century Ottoman Saray.
Best Angle: The elaborate, carved wooden ceilings inside.
Atmosphere: Immersive, showcasing the intimate, daily life of past centuries.
Admission: May be free or a minimal fee (verify locally).
Best Time: Late afternoon, when the light highlights the interior wood carvings. The traditional Konak structure used by men is located nearby and may be included in the visit.
Locally Known As: Muzeu Etnologjik or Ish-Shkolla e Muzikës (Former Music School). The building itself is historically known as Saraji i Hysen Pashës.
Check local listings as staffing can affect public hours. It is located near the city center. The museum is housed in a protected 19th-century building, so full modern accessibility (elevators, ramps) may be limited, particularly to upper floors. Expect stairs and uneven surfaces.
Open Hours: Generally 10:00 - 18:00 (Mon-Sat);
Accessibility: The museum is housed in a protected 19th-century building, so full modern accessibility (elevators, ramps) may be limited, particularly to upper floors. Expect stairs and uneven surfaces.
Current Status: Open and actively promoting its collection since its 2021 inauguration.
Last update
Jan 11, 2026
The Story
The Ethnological Museum of Gjilan embodies the layered history of the region. Built in 1887, the Hysen Pasha Palace was originally a stately Ottoman residence. After World War II, the Yugoslav government confiscated the property, converting it into a school for over seven decades. In 2021, with support from the European Union’s IPA II cross-border cooperation program, the building was restored and inaugurated as an ethnological museum.
Inside, visitors encounter artefacts such as a 200-year-old wedding chest, traditional costumes, and tools of shoemakers and silversmiths.
These exhibits highlight the craftsmanship, domestic traditions, and social rituals of Gjilan’s past. The museum not only preserves objects but also revives the memory of a community shaped by Ottoman influence, local artisanship, and modern transformation. Today, it serves as a cultural anchor for Gjilan, connecting residents and tourists to the city’s heritage.
