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City Wall of Durrës: Echoes of Ancient Illyria

Explore Durrës's ancient City Wall: a journey through centuries of history and stunning Adriatic views.

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The City Wall of Durrës, dating back to the 5th century AD, stands as a testament to the city's strategic importance throughout history. Built by the Byzantines, with later reinforcements by the Venetians and Ottomans, the well-preserved segments offer a glimpse into Durrës's rich past as one of the Adriatic's most fortified cities.

A brief summary to City Wall of Durrës

  • Muri Kalase, Rruga Kalase, Durrës, AL

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the walk along the walls may involve uneven terrain.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Durrës Archaeological Museum for a more comprehensive historical context.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Durrës Amphitheatre, head east on Rruga Aleksander Goga towards the coast. Continue straight until you reach the waterfront promenade, then turn left. Walk along the promenade; the City Wall of Durrës will be on your right, past the main square.

  • Public Transport

    From Durrës Bus Station, take a local bus to the city center ('Qender'). Get off at the main square, from where the City Wall of Durrës is a short walk away. A bus ride within Durrës typically costs around 30-40 ALL.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Durrës. A short taxi ride from the Durrës city center to the City Wall will cost approximately 1000-1250 ALL. Taxi fares generally start at 250 ALL, with an additional 200 ALL per kilometer.

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Discover more about City Wall of Durrës

The City Wall of Durrës is an unmissable landmark for history enthusiasts visiting Albania's coastal city. Constructed initially in the 5th century AD by Byzantine Emperor Anastasius I, who hailed from Durrës, the wall served as a crucial defense against invasions, fortifying the city as a strategic point on the Adriatic. Over the centuries, the wall has seen numerous conflicts, earthquakes, and rulers, each leaving their mark on its structure. The Venetians, who seized Durrës in 1392, further enhanced the fortifications with guard towers. During Ottoman rule, the walls were reinforced again. Today, visitors can explore significant portions of the wall, which once stretched over 1.5 kilometers. The medieval walls stand approximately 4.6 meters (15 feet) high, with preserved entrances to some of the fortification towers. Walking along the wall offers panoramic views of Durrës, blending the ancient with the modern. The wall's strategic location provides stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and the bustling city below. While exploring the City Wall, take the opportunity to visit nearby attractions such as the Venetian Tower and the Durrës Amphitheatre, which is the largest Roman amphitheater in the Balkans. The Durrës Archaeological Museum is also close by, offering a deeper understanding of the region's history with its collection of Greek and Roman artifacts.

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