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Butrint: A Journey Through Time

Discover Butrint National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with ancient ruins, diverse ecosystems, and a rich history spanning millennia.

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Explore the ancient city of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Albania, with ruins dating back to the 7th century BC. Wander through well-preserved Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian structures nestled in a stunning natural landscape of forests, lakes, and wetlands.

A brief summary to Butrint National Archaeological Park

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and the midday heat.
  • Bring enough cash in Lek or Euros, as card payments may not be accepted everywhere.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain.
  • Bring water, especially during the summer months.
  • Pick up a free brochure at the entrance for a map and information about the ruins.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Saranda, take the bus towards Butrint. The bus departs from the Saranda ferry terminal or near Friendship Park. The journey takes approximately 30-45 minutes. A ticket costs around 200 Lek. The bus also stops in Ksamil, where the fare to Butrint is approximately 100 Lek.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available from Saranda and Ksamil. A taxi from Ksamil to Butrint costs approximately 1000-1500 Lek. A taxi from Saranda to Butrint costs 4000-5000 Lek. Agree on the price before starting the journey.

  • Walking

    It is possible to walk to Butrint from Ksamil, which takes around an hour. Follow the main road south from Ksamil.

  • Car

    Drive south from Ksamil on the main road. There is a large car park near the entry gate. Parking is free. Note that the parking lot can get full during peak season.

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Discover more about Butrint National Archaeological Park

Butrint National Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1992, is a captivating blend of history and nature located in southern Albania. This 'open-air museum' showcases ruins from various civilizations, including Illyrian, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian, spanning over 2,500 years. According to legend, Butrint was founded by exiles fleeing the fall of Troy. The city thrived due to its strategic location between the lake and the sea. The earliest settlement dates back to 50,000 BC, but it wasn't until the 8th century BC that Greeks from the Epirus region transformed Butrint into a fortified town. In 44 BC, the Romans took over, expanding the city and constructing an aqueduct across the Vivari Canal. Over the centuries, Butrint became a Christian center within the Byzantine Empire and later fell under Frankish, Venetian, and Ottoman control before its eventual abandonment. Key highlights include the well-preserved ancient theatre dating back to the 3rd century BC, the Sanctuary of Asclepius, the Baptistery with its mosaic floor, and the Venetian Castle housing a museum. The park also encompasses a diverse natural environment, with forests, wetlands, and over 1,200 animal species. Visitors can explore the ruins, enjoy scenic views, and immerse themselves in the rich history and ecological significance of this unique site. Allow at least two hours to explore the main monuments, and longer if you wish to explore the smaller sights. The park is open from 8 am to dusk, and the museum in the Acropolis is open from 9 am to 4 pm.

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