The house is built with a fortified 'tower' style, designed to provide both protection and a display of wealth.
The grand reception room features a monumental fireplace and intricate stained-glass windows.
The architecture is characterized by its asymmetry, which was a common feature of high-status Gjirokastër residences.
The house retains its original stone roof slabs, characteristic of the local Gjirokastër architecture.
The family history is deeply intertwined with the administration of the Ottoman Empire in the region.
Zekate House is the most prominent and best-preserved example of an Ottoman-era kule (tower house) in Gjirokastër, constructed between 1811 and 1812. The structure reflects the social status of the Zeko family, featuring a twin-tower design connected by a central arch and balcony. It serves as a fortified residential complex, showcasing the evolution of fortified dwellings in the Balkans. The interior preserves original frescoes, carved woodwork, and traditional Ottoman hearths. Visitors can explore the women's quarters, the grand reception room on the third floor, and the cellar used for food storage. The property remains privately managed by descendants of the original owners. An outdoor bar area is integrated into the site, offering views over the historic center of Gjirokastër. It is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site property.
The third-floor balcony looking out over the city rooftops and the Gjirokastër Fortress.
Wear comfortable, flat-soled shoes as the stone floors and staircases can be uneven.
Ask the owners for insights into the architectural restoration process.
Visit the third-floor reception room to see the best examples of internal wood carvings.
Do not attempt to enter private rooms that are cordoned off or marked as restricted.
Operating season is typically spring through autumn; may close during extreme winter weather.
Remove shoes when entering areas with traditional rugs; behave respectfully as it remains a family property.
