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Durres City Walls: Echoes of Ancient Illyria

Explore Durrës City Walls: A journey through time, showcasing centuries of history and stunning Adriatic views.

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The Durres City Walls, a historical landmark in Durrës, Albania, stand as testaments to the city's rich past. Built initially by the Byzantines between the 3rd and 5th centuries AD to protect from invaders, these walls have been modified and reinforced through the centuries by the Venetians and Ottomans, and offer visitors a glimpse into the ancient world.

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.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the walk along the walls may be uneven in some areas.
  • Bring a camera to capture the panoramic views of the city and the Adriatic Sea.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are starting from the Durres Amphitheater, head east on Rruga Aleksander Goga towards the coast. Continue straight until you reach the waterfront promenade. Turn left onto the promenade and walk along the coast. After about 800 meters, you will see the Durres City Walls on your right, just past the main square. The entrance is easily accessible from the promenade.

  • Public Transport

    You can take a local bus from the Durres Bus Station to the city center. Board a bus that says 'Qender' (Center). The ride will take approximately 10-15 minutes. Get off at the main square of Durres, from where you can easily walk to the Durres City Walls, which are located just a short distance away. The bus fare is typically around 1 EUR.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Durres. A short taxi ride from the Durres Bus Terminal to the City Walls will cost approximately 500-700 ALL. You can also use the VrapOn Taxi App to book a taxi.

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Discover more about Durres City Walls

The ancient Durres City Walls narrate a compelling story of resilience and strategic importance. Constructed between the 3rd and 5th centuries AD by the Byzantine Empire, the walls served as a crucial defense for Durrës, one of the most fortified cities on the Adriatic coast. The city, known as Epidamnos by the Greeks and Dyrrhachium by the Romans, has been a significant port and trading center for millennia. Over the centuries, the walls have witnessed numerous sieges and rulers, each leaving their mark. In 1273, an earthquake devastated the structure, necessitating extensive repairs. The Venetians, who seized Durrës in 1392, further enhanced the fortifications with guard towers. During Ottoman rule, the walls received additional reinforcement. Today, the medieval walls stand approximately 4.6 meters (15 feet) high, with preserved entrances to the fortification towers visible along about one-third of their original length. A walk along the Durres City Walls offers a unique perspective on the city. Visitors can see remnants of towers and gateways while enjoying panoramic views of Durrës and the Adriatic Sea. The walls are conveniently located near other attractions, including the Durres Amphitheater and the Archaeological Museum.

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