Durrës, home to the biggest seaport in the country, is located 34 km away from Tirana. It is the most ancient city in Albania, with almost 3,000 years of history. Its foundation dates back to 627 B.C. when the Corinthians and settlers from Corcyra invaded the Illyrian territory of the Taulants. The city is home to many ancient archaeological sites and finds. The most notable tourist attraction in Durrës is the amphitheater of the Roman Emperor Hadrian with 15,000 seats, the second biggest amphitheater in the Balkans .
During the 9th century, a small church with mosaic-covered walls was built nearby. You can also see the bathhouses of the 2nd century A.D. and the nearby Byzantine forum of the 5th-6th century with marble columns. One-third of the original wall of the city castle is still standing, and you can even walk along the same road that Caesar himself once strolled. The Archeological Museum is located in a new building on Taulantia road , one of the most important of its kind and of great interest to visitors. The most renowned archaeological structure found in Durrës is “Bukuroshja e Durrësit,” a mosaic from the 4th century B.C. Today, it is exhibited in the National Historic Museum in Tirana.
The Ethnographic Museum is the house of the historic famous actor Alexander Moissi born near Durres .
The Art Gallery of the city is placed at the main square Iliria.
In addition to its historical value, Durrës is also a beautiful place to take a break, due to its sandy beaches, hotels and urban feel. You will find excellent restaurants and accommodations all along the sea’s edge.