Tirana, the Republic of Albania's largest city, is blessed with a mild Mediterranean climate, a plethora of beautiful churches and lush parks. Founded in 1614, some striking Mussolini-era architecture dots the city center. Walk between sights such as Skanderbeg Square's 1789 Et'hem Bey Mosque, the 1830 Sahat-Kulla (Clock Tower) and the Puppet Theater, once home to King Zog's puppet parliament. Visit the Peace Bell, built with old cartridge shells, a reminder of Tirana's stormy past.