Often referred to as one of the 'ugliest buildings' in the world, the National Library of Kosovo was designed by Croatian architect Andrija Mutnjaković, with construction completed in 1982. It stands as a great example of Brutalist architecture that combines design elements from the region’s religious architecture, featuring both cubic and domed structures reminiscent of Byzantine and Ottoman traditions.
One of the building's most striking features is its hexagonal outer structure. This external latticework is visually distinctive, inspired by the region's well-known honey. The other notable element, the white domes, are inspired by Turkish hammams. These allow natural light to filter into the library, creating a well-lit, yet diffused, daytime reading environment.
The National Library of Kosovo is open to visitors; you should be able to just walk right in. When in the area, other notable buildings worth visiting include the half-built Christ the Saviour Orthodox Cathedral (below) and the Palace of Youth and Sports.
