The most beautiful cities in Albania
The most beautiful cities in Albania
From Shkodra to Saranda, passing through Durazzo and Tirana. Albanian cities that you must visit if you plan a trip to Albania
Tirana
It is the capital of Albania in 1920. Founded in 1614 by Sulejman Bargjini. It is believed that the name Tirana derives from the word “Theranda”, mentioned in ancient Greek and Latin writings, which the locals called “Te Ranat”.
Today Tirana is not only the most populated city in Albania, but also the largest political and economic center in the country. Mount Dajti is close to the city, while the large national park with an artificial lake is located in the southern part of the capital.
Vlora
It is a coastal city. It is one of the main ports of the country, but it also has a great historical importance, since in 1912 the assembly that declared Albania an independent state met here.
In fact, the first government led by Ismail Qemali was formed in Vlora and, precisely for this reason, it was the first capital of Albania. In the upper city you can visit Kuzum Baba, a holy place from where you can enjoy the view of the sea and the whole city.
Beratit
It is known as the city of overlapping windows. Designated by UNESCO as a world heritage site, it is located on the slope of Mount Tomorri where the city’s castle stands. Inside the castle is the Onufri museum, where the works of great Albanian painters are exhibited.
Duration
It is the second largest city and the main port of Albania. The city was colonized by the Corinthians in 627 BC: it was called Epidamnus which later became Durrakium.
The largest artifact is the approximately 15,000-seat amphitheater, built in the second century AD. Between the first and third centuries, Durazzo was a very important trading port on the Via Egnatia, thanks to its position between Rome and Byzantium.
After a series of earthquakes, the ancient part of Durrës was flooded and destroyed. Today, the city is known above all for its sandy beaches.
Itches
It is a medieval city near Tirana. The name Kruje is closely related to the name of the national hero Giorgio Castriota Scanderbeg, who fought against the Turks for 25 years.
Near the city is the castle, inside which is the Skanderbeg museum.
Korča
It is the largest city in the southeastern region of Albania. It became an important trade and craft center during the seventeenth century.
You can visit the medieval art museum, which represents the spiritual culture of Albanians. There is also the museum of education, where the first school was opened