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Lin: Europe's Oldest Lakeside Settlement

Explore Lin, Albania: Uncover Europe's oldest settlement on the shores of the breathtaking Lake Ohrid. A journey through time and natural beauty.

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Discover Lin, a charming Albanian village on Lake Ohrid, home to the oldest known prehistoric settlement in Europe, dating back 8,500 years. Explore ancient ruins, Byzantine mosaics, and enjoy the stunning natural beauty of this hidden gem.

A brief summary to The oldest settlement in Europe

  • 3J8V+45P, Lin, Pogradec, AL

Local tips

  • Take a boat trip on Lake Ohrid for stunning views of the village and surrounding mountains.
  • Visit the ruins of the early Christian Byzantine church and admire the ancient mosaics.
  • Enjoy fresh fish from the lake at one of the local waterfront restaurants.
  • Combine your visit to Lin with a trip to nearby Pogradec or cross the border to explore Ohrid in North Macedonia.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Lin is located off the main highway between Korca and Elbasan/Tirana. From Tirana, follow state highway 3 via Elbasan (approximately 2 hours travel time). Once you reach the turnoff for Lin, it's a short drive to the village. Parking is available in the village. Be aware that the streets in the village are narrow.

  • Public Transport

    Buses connecting Korca and Elbasan/Tirana can drop you off at the turnoff for Lin. From there, it is approximately a 1.5-kilometer walk into the town. Bus travel from Tirana to Pogradec is approximately 2 hours and 28 minutes. Tickets cost around 4€. From Pogradec, you can take a local bus or taxi to Lin. A taxi from Pogradec to Lin will cost approximately 1500-2000 Lek.

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Discover more about The oldest settlement in Europe

Lin, a small village in Albania on the shores of Lake Ohrid, holds a remarkable secret beneath its serene surface: it's the site of Europe's oldest known lake dwelling settlement. Archaeological discoveries reveal that this area has been inhabited since at least 6000 BC, with recent findings pushing the date back to 8500 years ago. This makes Lin a pivotal location for understanding the development of early European civilizations and agriculture. Nestled on a peninsula jutting into Lake Ohrid, Lin offers visitors a unique blend of history and natural beauty. The village itself exudes old-world charm, with traditional Albanian hospitality and stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Above the village, on the hilltop, lie the remains of an early Christian Byzantine church, dating back to the 6th century, featuring foundation walls and intricate mosaics. These mosaics are a testament to the area's rich cultural heritage and are a must-see for history enthusiasts. Lake Ohrid, one of Europe's oldest and deepest lakes, adds to Lin's allure. Its crystal-clear waters are home to over 200 endemic species, making it a unique aquatic ecosystem of worldwide importance. The lake is shared between Albania and North Macedonia, with Lin offering a tranquil base for exploring both sides of this stunning natural wonder. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or simply relaxing by the lake, Lin provides an unforgettable Albanian experience.

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