Royal Tombs of Selca: Illyrian Legacy

Discover ancient Illyrian royalty at the Royal Tombs of Selca, a stunning archaeological site near Pogradec with breathtaking views.

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Royal Tombs of Selca

Explore the Royal Tombs of Selca, an ancient necropolis near Pogradec, Albania, dating back to the Illyrian kingdom. Carved into the rocks, these tombs offer a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the region, with stunning views of the Shkumbin Valley.

A brief summary to Royal Tombs of Selca

XGRC+57C Municipality of Pogradec, Mokër, Pogradec, 7301, AL
+355692287271

Local tips

Visit during sunrise or sunset for stunning photographic opportunities.
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the uneven terrain.
Consider joining a guided tour for in-depth historical insights.
Pack water and snacks, as amenities are limited nearby.

Getting There

Public Transport

From the main bus station in Pogradec, take a minibus heading towards Mokër. The ride should take about 15-20 minutes. Ask the driver to drop you off at the closest stop to Mokër village. From Mokër, follow the local signs to the Royal Tombs, approximately 1.5 kilometers away. Expect to pay around 100-200 Lek for the minibus.
Walking

From the center of Pogradec, head northeast on Rruga Shën Mëri towards Rruga e Dajlani. Continue on Rruga e Dajlani until you reach the intersection with Rruga e Dajlani and turn left. After walking about 500 meters, you will see signs for Mokër. Follow the road as it curves and ascends into the hills. Once you reach the village of Mokër, look for local signs directing you to the Royal Tombs, which are located approximately 1.5 kilometers from the center of Mokër. The path to the tombs may be slightly steep.

Discover more about Royal Tombs of Selca

The Royal Tombs of Selca, also known as the Illyrian Tombs of Selca e Poshtme, are located near Pogradec, Albania, and the village of Selcë e Poshtme. Situated on the right bank of the Shkumbin River, at an elevation of 1040m, they mark the remains of the ancient city of Pelion and its necropolis. This site was once the royal residence of King Klit, an ancient Illyrian ruler. The Roman Via Egnatia once passed near here on its way to Thessaloniki. Traces of human activity date back to Neolithic times, but the settlement's main period stretches from the Iron Age to the Illyrian urban period (5th to 2nd centuries BC). It reached its peak under the Illyrian tribe of Enchele during the Iron Age and was later occupied in the Roman period. From the 4th to 1st centuries BC, the city served as the royal residence of Illyrian kings, becoming an important political and economic hub. Albania proposed the Royal Tombs of Selca e Poshtme for UNESCO World Heritage status in 1996. Archaeological excavations from 1969 to 1972, led by Albanian archaeologist Neritan Ceka, revealed five phases of occupation. The tombs, dating back to the 4th and 3rd centuries BC, are carved into the rock around the acropolis, some adorned with Ionic columns. Discoveries within the tombs include weapons, bronze vessels, ceramics, and gold jewelry, many of which are now displayed at the National Historical Museum in Tirana. The tombs are the most iconic architectural features of the Illyrian city of Lower Selca. Selca was once a key political and economic center, serving as the administrative region for the Illyrian tribe of Dassaretae. Today, visitors can explore the five monumental tombs and enjoy panoramic views of the Shkumbin Valley.

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Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Royal Tombs of Selca: Illyrian Legacy

A brief summary to Royal Tombs of Selca

Local tips

Getting There

Public Transport

Walking

Unlock the Best of Royal Tombs of Selca

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Royal Tombs of Selca

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Royal Tombs of Selca

The oldest settlement in Europe

Ura e Bushtricës

Parc national Llogara

Kisha Fjetja e Shen Marise

Oborri Familjar

SEVEN

Lasgush Poradeci Monument

Hotel Hymeti's Palace

Bashkia Pogradec

Hotel Enkelana

Berberi Guest House

Rusi Grill

Fish Taverna Ladi

Visit Pogradec

Unmissable attractions to see

Lin

Lin Pogradec

Guri i Kuq

Lin Camping

Lin Ancient Mosaics

Lin highest checkpoint,magical view!!

Pogradec Panoramic View Point

Liqenet e Lukovës

Port of Pogradec

Beach

Shtëpia e Miqve

Sheshi Odeoni

Discover Pogradec

Kantieri

Bridge Pogradec

Essential places to dine

Restaurant Rrapi, Bërzeshtë

Taverna Mimi

Bar Restorante “Te Bakja”

Purple Sky Beach Bar

ZOICA.. Bar restorant

Te Minarollët

Dy Vëllezërit

Pizza Restorant Artist

Den

Fole Resto Lounge Bar & Rooms

Restorant Poradeci

Fast Food Special

Restorant Tradita

Abi Pizza Hallall

Kendi Veres

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Market Toçka

Woodcarving

FUSTANE ME QERA DARSDRESS

The Butcher's Shop

Garden Villa

The Fragrance Shop IN ACCESSORIZE

New Look

Te Asllani fishop

Butik Erajla Pogradec 2

Market

Peshk

TrendZ

Linja 500 lek pogradec

Byrek

London Shop Pogradec

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Bar Osmrija

Aroma Bar Cafe

Bar Klabjo

Butterfly Lounge Beach Bar