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Durrës City Walls: Echoes of Ancient Illyria

Explore Durrës City Walls: A journey through time, showcasing ancient fortifications and offering breathtaking Adriatic Sea views.

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The Durrës City Walls, a historical fortification dating back to the 5th century AD, stands as a testament to the city's strategic importance throughout history. Built by the Byzantines, these walls have been reinforced by various empires, offering visitors a glimpse into Durrës's rich past and stunning views of the Adriatic coast.

A brief summary to Durres City Walls

  • 8C6W+5CQ, Durrës, AL

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler weather.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning views and historical details.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the walk along the walls may be uneven in some areas.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Archaeological Museum for a deeper understanding of Durrës's history.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are starting from Durrës Amphitheater, walk east on Rruga Aleksander Goga toward the coast. Continue straight until you reach the waterfront promenade, then turn left. Walk along the coast; after about 800 meters, you'll see the Durrës City Walls on your right, just past the main square. The entrance is easily accessible from the promenade.

  • Public Transport

    From Durrës Bus Station, take a local bus to the city center ('Qender'). The ride takes 10-15 minutes. Get off at the main square and walk to the Durrës City Walls, a short distance away. The bus fare is approximately 40 ALL.

  • Taxi

    From the Durrës city center, a taxi ride to the Durrës City Walls is a short trip. Taxis in Durrës have a starting fee of 250 ALL, with an additional 200 ALL per kilometer. A short ride should cost around 1000-1250 ALL.

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Discover more about Durres City Walls

The ancient Durrës City Walls, also known as Durrës Castle, whisper tales of civilizations that have shaped Albania's oldest city. Originally constructed in the late 5th century AD by Byzantine Emperor Anastasius I, who hailed from Durrës, the walls were erected to protect the city from invaders, recognizing its crucial position on the Adriatic. These fortifications transformed Durrës into one of the most fortified cities along the Adriatic coast. Over the centuries, the walls underwent numerous repairs and reinforcements, reflecting the city's turbulent history. The Venetians, who seized Durrës in 1392, further fortified the castle with guard towers. During Ottoman rule, the walls were again strengthened. Today, the medieval walls stand approximately 15 feet (4.6 meters) high, with preserved entrances to some of the fortification towers, representing about one-third of their original length. Walking along the City Walls provides not only a journey through time but also panoramic views of Durrës and the Adriatic Sea. The blend of architectural styles reflects the influences of the various civilizations that have inhabited the region. Nearby, visitors can explore the Durrës Archaeological Museum, which houses artifacts that further illuminate the city's past. Quaint cafes and shops in the surrounding area offer a chance to relax and soak in the atmosphere of this historic city.

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