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Butrint National Archaeological Park: A Journey Through Time

Explore ancient ruins and natural beauty at Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Albania with Greek, Roman, and Venetian history.

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Explore the ancient city of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage site in southern Albania, where Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian civilizations have left their mark. Wander through well-preserved ruins, discover hidden stories, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this unique archaeological park.

A brief summary to Butrint National Archaeological Park

  • Monday 9 am-5:30 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5:30 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5:30 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5:30 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5:30 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5:30 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat, especially during the summer months.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain.
  • Bring water and snacks, as refreshments may not always be available inside the park.
  • Purchase a guidebook or hire a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of the ruins.
  • Combine your visit to Butrint with a trip to nearby Ksamil, known for its beautiful beaches.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    From Saranda, take the bus towards Ksamil; this same bus continues to Butrint National Park. The bus departs approximately every 30 minutes from the main bus stop near Friendship Park. The journey takes around 30-45 minutes. The fare is approximately 200 LEK. Pay the conductor on board.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Saranda. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. A taxi from Saranda to Butrint typically costs between 4000-5000 LEK. The journey takes approximately 25 minutes.

  • Car

    From Ksamil, drive south along the main road. Butrint is approximately a 15-minute drive. There is a large car park near the entry gate. Parking fees may apply.

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Discover more about Butrint National Archaeological Park

Butrint National Archaeological Park, located in southern Albania, is a captivating UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a unique blend of history, archaeology, and natural beauty. This ancient city, once known as Buthrotum, boasts a rich history spanning several civilizations, including the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Venetians. According to legend, Butrint was founded by exiles fleeing the fall of Troy. Archaeological evidence suggests that the site was first settled in the 8th century BC by Greeks from the Epirus region. Over the centuries, Butrint grew into a thriving city, with an acropolis, temples, and a sanctuary dedicated to Asclepius, the Greek god of medicine. In 44 BC, the Romans took control of Butrint, transforming it into a colony and expanding the city with an aqueduct and reclaimed marshland. The city later became an important Christian center during the Byzantine Empire before falling under Frankish, Venetian, and Ottoman rule. Butrint was eventually abandoned, leaving behind a wealth of archaeological treasures. Today, visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins of Butrint, including a Roman theatre, a baptistery with stunning mosaic floors, a basilica, and a Venetian castle. The park also encompasses a diverse natural environment, with forests, wetlands, and a variety of flora and fauna. Butrint National Park is not just a collection of old stones; it's a place where the woods meet the wetland. The park is home to over 400 species of fauna, and the area has been protected as a National Park since 1992. Allow at least two hours to visit the main monuments, and more if you want to really enjoy the views and see the smaller sights such as Roman villas, ancient Greek gates and Venetian towers.

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