Walking tour of Durres with Roman Amphitheater

Durres, located by the sea and surrounded by the sunny Ishmi hills’ vineyards, has a rich history of wine production dating back to the Greek era. Known as Epidamnos in the 7th century BC by Greek colonies from Corinth and Corfu, the city later gained importance during the Roman era, becoming a key battleground in the civil war between Caesar and Pompey. Following the Byzantine period, Durres faced invasions by Bulgarians and Ottomans. Today, its port stands as one of the largest tourist and commercial ports on the Adriatic Sea, reflecting its long-standing strategic and economic significance.

The tour begins with a visit to the Venetian Tower, a fortified military structure built between the 1400s and 1500s to protect the port, located near the ancient walls of Durres castle that once surrounded the city center. Next, you’ll explore the Roman Amphitheater, constructed by Emperor Trajan in the early 2nd century AD. With a capacity of 20,000, it is the largest amphitheater in the Balkan region. The visit concludes with a leisurely walk along the city’s main boulevard, ending at Municipality Square, where you can admire the main mosque of Durres, built in 1931.