Discover the Wonders of Albania's UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Gjirokastër – The Stone City (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Nestled in the Drino Valley in southern Albania, Gjirokastër is a breathtaking city known for its unique Ottoman-style architecture. Dubbed the "City of Stone," Gjirokastër features houses with slate roofs, high stone walls, and wooden balconies, resembling small fortresses. The city has retained its authentic historical charm, making it one of the best-preserved examples of Ottoman-era towns in the Balkans.

Highlights:

Gjirokastër Fortress – The city’s crown jewel, this massive hilltop castle dates back to the 12th century and now houses a military museum, an abandoned prison, and the National Folk Festival stage. The castle offers panoramic views over the city and the Drino Valley.
Skenduli House – A well-preserved Ottoman-era mansion showcasing traditional Albanian home interiors, including wooden ceilings, handwoven rugs, and secret escape passages.
The Bazaar – A lively marketplace filled with handmade crafts, antiques, and traditional Albanian products like silver filigree jewelry, ceramics, and embroidered textiles.
Cold War Tunnel – A secret underground bunker built during Enver Hoxha’s communist regime, designed to protect government officials in case of attack.

Today, Gjirokastër is a hub for culture, history, and traditional Albanian music, particularly Iso-polyphony, an ancient form of folk singing recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Berat – The City of a Thousand Windows (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

One of Albania’s most visually stunning cities, Berat is a living museum of Byzantine, Ottoman, and medieval Albanian architecture. The city is known for its white-washed houses with large windows, stacked along the hillside, giving it the nickname “City of a Thousand Windows.”

Highlights:

Berat Castle (Kala) – One of the few inhabited castles in the world, with families still living within its walls. Inside, visitors can explore ancient churches, mosques, and cobbled streets that date back over 2,400 years.
Onufri National Museum – Located within the Church of the Dormition of St. Mary, this museum showcases vibrant 16th-century Orthodox frescoes and icons painted by Albania’s most renowned artist, Onufri.
Mangalem & Gorica Quarters – Two historic neighborhoods divided by the Osum River, each offering a blend of Ottoman and Byzantine influences. The Gorica Bridge, built in the 18th century, connects the two sides.
The Ethnographic Museum – Housed in an 18th-century Ottoman residence, this museum provides insight into the daily life, clothing, and traditions of Berat’s past inhabitants.

Berat is also surrounded by natural beauty, including the Osum Canyon, known for its dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and adventure sports like rafting.

Butrint – A Window into the Ancient World (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

One of Albania’s most significant archaeological sites, Butrint is an ancient city that dates back over 2,500 years. Situated near Ksamil, Butrint was once a thriving Greek colony, a Roman city, and later a Byzantine settlement. Today, the site is an open-air museum showcasing multiple civilizations that once ruled the region.

Highlights:

The Amphitheater – Built in the 3rd century BC, this well-preserved Greek-style theater could hold around 1,500 spectators. It was later repurposed by the Romans for gladiator battles.
The Baptistery – One of the largest early Christian baptisteries in the Mediterranean, known for its stunning mosaic floor with intricate geometric and animal motifs.
The Lion Gate – A defensive entrance built by the Byzantines, featuring a carved relief of a lion devouring a bull, symbolizing strength.
Venetian Tower – A medieval addition to Butrint, built during the Venetian occupation, offering stunning views of the lagoon and surrounding nature.

Set within the Butrint National Park, the ruins are surrounded by lush greenery, lakes, and wildlife, making it a paradise for both history lovers and nature enthusiasts.

Lake Ohrid – A Natural and Cultural Gem (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Shared between Albania and North Macedonia, Lake Ohrid is one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe, estimated to be more than 2 million years old. It is home to over 200 endemic species, making it a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Highlights on the Albanian side:

Pogradec – A charming town on the lake’s shore, known for its relaxed atmosphere, waterfront promenades, and fresh fish dishes, especially Koran fish (a rare trout species).
Lin Village & Basilica – A picturesque fishing village with ancient Byzantine mosaics dating back to the 5th century. The hilltop offers breathtaking views of Lake Ohrid.
Drilon National Park – A beautiful natural spring area with swans, ducks, and tranquil walking paths, once a retreat for communist dictator Enver Hoxha.

Lake Ohrid is a destination where visitors can immerse themselves in nature, history, and local traditions.

Vjosa River – Europe’s Last Wild River (Tentative UNESCO Site – Natural Heritage)

Flowing for 270 kilometers from Greece through Albania to the Adriatic Sea, the Vjosa River is Europe’s last major free-flowing river, untouched by dams or industrial development. In 2023, it was officially declared Europe’s first Wild River National Park, protecting its rare aquatic species, unspoiled landscapes, and vibrant ecosystems.

Why Visit Vjosa?

Rafting Adventures – The Vjosa offers thrilling white-water rafting experiences, especially near Këlcyrë Canyon.
Wildlife Spotting – The river supports rare fish species, migratory birds, and unique riverine ecosystems.
Eco-Tourism & Hiking – Explore the lush valleys, remote villages, and pristine landscapes along the river.

The Vjosa River National Park is a haven for outdoor lovers, conservationists, and adventure seekers.

Rozafa Castle – The Legendary Fortress of Shkodër

Overlooking Lake Shkodër, the Buna and Drin Rivers, Rozafa Castle is one of Albania’s most legendary fortresses. According to folklore, a young woman named Rozafa was buried alive in the castle walls to ensure its strength—her milk still flowing from the walls, symbolizing sacrifice.

What to See?

Medieval Walls & Towers – Walk through ancient fortifications offering panoramic views of Shkodër.
Rozafa Museum – Learn about the history of the castle and the region.
Scenic Sunsets – The castle provides one of the best sunset spots in Albania.

Shkodër itself is a vibrant cultural city, home to the Marubi National Photography Museum and Lake Shkodër, where visitors can go kayaking or birdwatching.

Apollonia – The Lost City of Illyria (Tentative UNESCO Site – Cultural Heritage)

Located in central Albania, Apollonia was one of the most important Greek colonies in Illyria, founded in the 6th century BC. It flourished during Roman times, becoming a major trade, cultural, and educational center. Even the famous Roman emperor Augustus studied here.

Highlights:

The Grand Amphitheater – Built in the 3rd century BC, this structure once held thousands of spectators for performances and public events.
The Bouleuterion – An ancient council house where Apollonia’s leaders met to discuss governance.
The Monument of Agonothetes – A grand colonnaded structure from the Roman period, once used for public gatherings.
Byzantine Monastery of St. Mary – A well-preserved Orthodox monastery that now houses a small but rich archaeological museum.

Surrounded by rolling hills and olive groves, Apollonia offers a peaceful retreat for history lovers and travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Durrës Amphitheater – The Largest in the Balkans (Tentative UNESCO Site – Cultural Heritage)

Durrës, Albania’s main port city, is home to the largest Roman amphitheater in the Balkans, built in the 2nd century AD during Emperor Trajan’s reign. The amphitheater could accommodate 20,000 spectators, hosting gladiator battles, theatrical performances, and public gatherings.

Highlights:

The Amphitheater’s Underground Passages – Explore the subterranean network where gladiators and wild animals once waited before battle.
The Chapel with Mosaics – Inside the amphitheater, a 5th-century Byzantine chapel contains stunning early Christian mosaics, including depictions of saints.
The Durrës Archaeological Museum – A short walk away, this museum showcases ancient Greek and Roman artifacts, including statues, jewelry, and pottery.

Today, visitors can walk through the ruins, imagining the grandeur of ancient Durrës, once called “The Adriatic’s Tavern” for its bustling maritime trade.

The Llogara Pass & Ceraunian Mountains – Albania’s Riviera Jewel (Tentative UNESCO Site – Natural Heritage)

Rising over 1,000 meters above sea level, the Llogara Pass is one of Albania’s most scenic mountain roads, offering breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea and Albanian Riviera. This region is part of the Ceraunian Mountains, a potential UNESCO Biosphere Reserve due to its diverse flora, rare wildlife, and unspoiled landscapes.

Highlights:

Llogara National Park – A haven for hikers, with centuries-old pine forests, mountain trails, and stunning viewpoints.
Cesar’s Pass – Legend has it that Julius Caesar crossed this pass during his civil war against Pompey in 48 BC.
Wildlife Watching – Home to golden eagles, wild boars, and even endangered Balkan lynx.

Descending from Llogara leads to the stunning Albanian Riviera, featuring crystal-clear beaches, hidden bays, and charming coastal villages like Dhërmi, Himarë, and Borsh.

The Ancient City of Byllis – Albania’s Forgotten Acropolis (Tentative UNESCO Site – Cultural Heritage)

Perched on a hill overlooking the Vjosa River Valley, Byllis was once the most powerful city of the Illyrian Bylliones tribe. Founded in the 4th century BC, it later became a Roman settlement with impressive temples, theaters, and city walls.

Highlights:

Byllis Theater – A well-preserved amphitheater that could accommodate 7,500 spectators, offering stunning views of the valley.
The Basilica of Byllis – Featuring beautiful mosaic floors, this early Christian church dates back to the 6th century AD.
Ancient City Walls – Stretching over 2 kilometers, these massive stone walls were once a powerful defense system.

Unlike more popular ruins, Byllis remains relatively undiscovered, making it an ideal spot for travelers who love history, tranquility, and breathtaking scenery.

Shala River & Komani Lake – The Albanian Alps’ Hidden Paradise (Tentative UNESCO Site – Natural Heritage)

Often compared to the Norwegian fjords, Komani Lake and the Shala River form one of Albania’s most stunning natural landscapes. The lake, created by a hydroelectric dam, snakes through towering limestone cliffs, creating a fairy-tale setting.

Highlights:

Boat Tour through Komani Lake – A spectacular ferry ride through dramatic mountain scenery, connecting the remote regions of northern Albania.
Shala River – Often called “Albania’s Thailand” for its turquoise waters, perfect for swimming, kayaking, and relaxation.
Valbona Valley National Park – A hiking paradise, offering trails through Albania’s rugged Alps, picturesque villages, and glacial valleys.

For those seeking off-the-grid adventures, the Komani-Shala-Valbona route is an unmissable journey into Albania’s wild heart.

The Voskopoja Monasteries – The Forgotten Byzantine Legacy (Tentative UNESCO Site – Cultural Heritage)

Once a thriving cultural and religious center, Voskopoja (or Moscopole) was a prominent 18th-century town, home to one of the first printing presses in the Balkans. Today, it is known for its stunning Byzantine monasteries and frescoes.

Highlights:

St. Nicholas Monastery – Features some of the best-preserved frescoes in Albania, painted by the famous Zografi brothers.
St. Mary Church – A masterpiece of post-Byzantine architecture, with intricate gold-leaf iconostasis and religious murals.
The Ruins of the Old Town – Once a prosperous merchant hub, Voskopoja was devastated by Ottoman invasions and wars, leaving behind intriguing ruins.

Tucked away in the mountains, Voskopoja offers a mix of history, nature, and authentic Albanian culture, making it a perfect cultural retreat.

Tomorr Mountain National Park – The Sacred Albanian Olympus (Tentative UNESCO Site – Natural Heritage)

Mount Tomorr is one of Albania’s most mystical and sacred peaks, often called the "Albanian Olympus." It is deeply connected to Bektashi Sufism, a unique branch of Islam, and is home to the annual pilgrimage to Abaz Ali’s tomb.

Highlights:

Summit Hike to Mali i Tomorrit (2,416m) – A challenging yet rewarding climb offering panoramic views of Albania’s landscapes.
Bektashi Shrine of Abaz Ali – A holy site where thousands of pilgrims gather each August.
Wildlife & Nature – Home to Balkan lynx, bears, and golden eagles, with vast forests of oak and pine.

Tomorr Mountain is a sacred destination for both nature lovers and spiritual travelers, offering adventure, history, and tranquility.

Albania’s rich cultural and natural heritage continues to surprise and captivate travelers. From ancient cities and monasteries to stunning landscapes and legendary mountains, there is always something new to discover.

🌍 Which UNESCO site in Albania are you most excited to visit? 🚀