VOICED : Albanians turn spotlight on sites of dark communist past

The video explores the history of Spatch Prison, a former labor camp in Albania, and the harsh conditions faced by political prisoners under the communist regime. It highlights the story of Samir Maliku, who was imprisoned for alleged espionage, and his efforts to turn Spatch into a museum. The video also discusses the House of Leaves, a museum dedicated to Albania's surveillance history, and the unrepentant views of a former spy chief. As Albania's attitudes shift, these museums aim to illuminate the country's past and its painful memories.

What was the primary function of Spatch prison during Albania's communist regime?

• A military training camp

• A labor camp for political prisoners

• A school for young communists

• A hospital for the regime's officials

How were the prisoners accommodated in Spatch prison?

• In three-level bunk beds with straw mattresses

• In spacious individual cells

• In large dormitories with comfortable beds

• In tents outside the prison

What led to Samir Malikus's imprisonment?

• He was accused of being an English agent and inventing a device to receive foreign TV

• He was a member of an opposition political party

• He attempted to escape the country

• He was caught stealing from the government

What is the House of Leaves known for?

• Being the residence of a former Albanian president

• Being a famous Albanian restaurant

• Serving as the nerve center of surveillance operations

• Hosting international peace talks

What is the attitude of the former spy chief towards his past actions?

• He claims to have been forced into his role

• He denies any involvement in surveillance

• He believes his actions were justified and constitutional

• He regrets his actions and seeks forgiveness