Durrës Amphitheatre, Mysia Travel Guide

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Explore the ancient Roman Amphitheatre of Durrës, the largest in the Balkans, and discover its hidden chapel and rich history.

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Durrës Amphitheatre

The Durrës Amphitheatre, located in the heart of Durrës, Albania, is the largest Roman amphitheater in the Balkans, dating back to the 2nd century AD. Built during the reign of Emperor Trajan, it once hosted gladiatorial combats and public spectacles for up to 20,000 spectators. Rediscovered in the 1960s after centuries of being buried, it stands as a testament to the region's rich Roman history.

A brief summary to Durrës Amphitheatre

8C6W+V2M, Rruga Kalase, Durrës, AL
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Monday 9 am-4 pm
Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
Thursday 9 am-4 pm
Friday 9 am-7 pm
Saturday 9 am-4 pm
Sunday 9 am-2 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Durrës Amphitheatre.

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and have the best light for photos.
Wear sturdy shoes, as some areas are uneven and slippery, especially near the underground tunnels and mosaics.
Combine your visit with nearby attractions such as the Durrës Archaeological Museum, Venetian Tower, and Byzantine Forum.

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Explore Durrës Amphitheatre on the Map

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Getting There

Walking

The Durrës Amphitheatre is centrally located, a short walk from the main square and the Durrës promenade. From the city center, walk north on Rruga Anastas Durrsaku. The amphitheater will be visible on your left, surrounded by modern buildings.
Public Transport

If arriving by bus from Tirana, the Durrës Bus Station is approximately a 15-20 minute walk to the amphitheater. Exit the station and walk towards the city center, following signs to the amphitheater or using a map. A local taxi from the bus station to the amphitheater will cost approximately 300-500 Lek. Bus fare from Tirana is around 150-200 Lek. Public transportation in Durrës includes buses and furgons (minibuses). Bus fare is approximately 40 lek per ride.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Durrës. A short taxi ride from most points in the city center to the Durrës Amphitheatre should cost between 500-800 Lek. Ensure the meter is running or negotiate the fare before starting your journey.

Discover more about Durrës Amphitheatre

The Durrës Amphitheatre is a remarkable historical landmark in the center of Durrës, Albania. Constructed in the early 2nd century AD during the rule of Emperor Trajan, this grand structure is the largest Roman amphitheater in the Balkan Peninsula. It could accommodate between 15,000 and 20,000 spectators, who gathered to witness gladiatorial contests, wild animal fights, and other public events.The amphitheater's architecture showcases the engineering skills of the Romans, featuring underground tunnels, vaulted seating, and a complex drainage system. In the 4th century AD, after gladiator fights were banned, a Byzantine chapel adorned with mosaics was added, reflecting the shift towards Christianity. These mosaics are still visible today. Over time, the amphitheater was abandoned, buried under layers of earth, and forgotten.The amphitheater's rediscovery occurred in 1966 during construction work. Excavations revealed about one-third of the site, with the remainder still buried under modern housing. Restoration efforts began in 2004 by the University of Parma. Today, the Durrës Amphitheatre is a popular tourist attraction and is on the tentative list of Albanian UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Visitors can explore the arena, wander through the tunnels, and admire the mosaics, gaining insight into the ancient Roman world and the cultural heritage of Durrës.