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Private Walking Tour Visit to Durrës

5.0

10 Ratings

Durrës

Discover Durrës through an immersive walking tour, blending history, architecture, and culture. Engage in insightful discussions and explore the city's rich heritage.

Duration: 4 hours

Cancellation: 1 day learn more

Highlights

Durres Castle - Through old maps, photographs, and locations, You will get to know the urban neighborhood as a result of various cultures, nations, and religions. You will discover the 2nd-century amphitheater, Byzantine, Norman, Venetian, and Ottoman fortifications, as well as the urban planning and architecture of the industrial city era. Furthermore, We will explore the contemporary urban transition of today.
Venetian Tower - During our tour, we will delve into the history of the construction of the Venetian Tower in Durrës, its building techniques, and its resemblance to other towers along the Adriatic Sea and beyond. We will also explore its historical significance during the Ottoman rule, up to its demilitarization during the early stages of World War II. We’ll discuss its utilization throughout the communist regime and up to the last 30 years. Additionally, visitors will be introduced to the recent renovation works financed by the European Commission, transforming this Tower into a multimedia center projecting the city’s history. Please note, to access the projection and the elevated balcony, visitors must pay an additional fee, not included in this tour, but entrance to view the interior is included.
Kisha E Apostull Pavlit Dhe Shen Astit - The Church of Saint Paul and Saint Astius, nestled amidst the bustling streets of Durres, exudes a quiet reverence. Visitors will become acquainted with the history of the two saints in the city of Durres, as well as with the hidden traces of the former Church of Saint Spiridon, demolished during the communist regime.
Medieval Bath - The Ottoman Hamam, built in the 17th century, is believed to have been either privately owned or part of government-owned buildings along the seaside promenade. It may have been associated with the White Mosque, located 5 meters west of the Hamam, where today’s Bulevardi Epidamn stands. Visitors, through the building’s traces, will discern remnants of the old road to the Durres Castle. Additionally, they will learn about the steam and heating techniques utilized in this structure.
Bulevardi Epidamn - Along Bulevardi Epidamn, we’ll stroll for 10 minutes, discussing the history and architecture that guided the construction investments of the early residential buildings along this road segment, planned in the first Urban regulatory Plan of 1928. Together, we’ll pause at 2 or 3 local spots for refreshments—a coffee, water, burek, ice cream, or orange juice.
Aleksandër Moisiu Museum - At this point, visitors will familiarize themselves with both traditional Albanian architecture and that of Durres. This house once served as the consulate of England in Durres, the capital after national independence. Today, it awaits the necessary investments after the earthquake damages of 2019, which damaged the Byzantine tower adjacent to the house. This residence carries the history of one of Durres’s most distinguished international theater artists, Aleksander Moisiu.
Fatih Mosque - Fatih Mosque is one of the three oldest mosques in the Republic of Albania. Built in 1501, it stands at the base of the Byzantine wall between two outer towers, shielding its minaret from seaside views and potential sea attacks. Its construction followed the same building materials as the Byzantine walls, utilizing supportive sections of the wall to open up the broad ground floor base of the structure.
Durres Amphitheatre - Together, we will get by the Amphitheater of Durrës, where we’ll delve into its fascinating history. Exploring the coexistence of this urban structure with the city above it. We’ll learn about its excavation in 1966 by the archaeologist Vangjel Toci and the intriguing secrets it revealed. Lastly, we’ll discover the Government Project aimed at restoring the entire Amphitheater, preserving and highlighting its rich historical layers.
Kisha e Shën Luçisë - Tucked away amidst the winding streets of Durres, the Church of Saint Lucy exudes an aura of timeless grace. In this church, visitors will delve into the history of its construction and encounter key figures in the city’s governance, reflecting on their spiritual significance. They’ll observe the present condition juxtaposed with the past, notably during the communist era when all religious activities were legally banned.
Town Square - Sheshi Liria - Plac - Freedom Square, one of the city’s earliest squares, was originally designed as a floral garden in the 1928 First Urban Regulatory Plan. It hosts the Municipality and the Grand Mosque. Visitors will delve into its development history from the Ottoman era to pre-World War II and present times. Through this narrative, they’ll grasp the broad urban morphology of the city, which subsequently extended into the various directions of the once-called Varosh neighborhoods.
Bashkia Durrës (Durrës City Hall) - Durres City Hall, build in 1931, embodies the Italian aesthetic preferences of its time. Notably, its large central balcony, originally used for public speeches in the square, stands out. Following the 1926 earthquake’s destruction of the clock tower, a new public clock was installed atop the new City Hall building. Today, this structure serves as the hub for essential activities of local governance, reflecting its historical significance and enduring importance in the city’s administrative landscape.
Xhamia E Madhe E Durresit - Build through investments by local merchants during Italy’s pre-World War II economic dominance, in 1939, its closure and alteration under the communist regime, and subsequent restoration post-1990s, have upheld its spiritual significance for residents - as sign of resitentance and integration in Islam. Frequented extensively, it stands as a symbol of resilience, reflecting Durres’s enduring cultural fabric amidst shifting socio-political tides.
“Aleksandër Moisiu” Theatre - The Palace of Culture in Durres marks the starting point of the Downtown thematic tour, named after the esteemed native artist, Aleksander Moisiu. Erected in 1960, it stands as the Republic of Albania’s inaugural structure of its kind. Here, we’ll delve into the distinct characteristics of Albanian architecture from the 1960s, discerning its influence not only within the city but also across Albania’s landscape.
Rotonda, Forumi Bizantin - Discovered by archaeologist Vangjel Toci, the Byzantine forum stands as a priceless gem among Durres’s archaeological discoveries. This urban relic serves as a vital link, enabling us to trace and interpret the city’s developmental transition from Late Antiquity to the Middle Ages. Visitors to this site will gain insight into these urban treasures and explore the artifacts showcased within this open forum, offering a glimpse into the vibrant life of the Byzantine period.
MuZEH Lab - Nestled in the heart of the historic Varosh neighborhood lies one of the city’s restored historical houses, transformed into a museum and cultural hub by private initiative, known as MuZEH Lab. Here, visitors will engage with the organizer behind these endeavors, delving into the diverse array of activities hosted within this space. Together, we’ll explore the rich tapestry of events and initiatives that animate MuZEH Lab, fostering cultural exchange and community engagement in Durres.
Akullore Bllaca - Together, we’ll stroll along Durres’s second commercial boulevard, Dyrrah Boulevard, pausing to discuss the area’s architecture, spanning from the 1928 Urban Regulatory Plan to the present day. We’ll also visit one of the city’s most traditional and historic establishments, Bllaca ice cream, in operation since the late 1920s. Here, we’ll delve into the rich history of confectionery production, including sweets, ice creams, and cakes, tracing its evolution through the communist era to the present day.
Burgu i Vjetër - The historic Durres prison, possibly predating the Ottoman Empire, was a pivotal military stronghold. Our journey will unveil its role in the WWII, highlighting Albanian resistance to Nazi-fascist forces. Moreover, we’ll confront its grim legacy of torture inflicted during the communist era. Through this exploration, we’ll unravel Durres’s intricate past, its dual identity as both a symbol of oppression and a testament to the indomitable spirit of its inhabitants in the face of adversity.
Martyrs Museum And War Relics Hall - The Museum of Martyrs, designed by architect Kristo Sotiri in the early 1950s, commemorates sacrifice. We’ll delve into Sotiri’s portfolio and impact, exploring his artistic legacy. Inspired by the museum’s mosaic, visitors will immerse in the era’s socialist realism trend. This journey offers a glimpse into Sotiri’s artistic vision and the socio-political milieu shaping Albania’s architectural landscape of the time.
Posta Albanian Courier Durrës - The Durres post office, reflecting the architectural style of the Communist era, stands proudly along one of the city’s widest and most prominent streets. During our tour, we’ll examine this building’s design and its strategic location adjacent to an underground archaeological complex. This hidden site serves as a testament to the magnificence of ancient Dyrrahur. Together, we’ll uncover the historical significance of these landmarks, shedding light on Durres’s past and its enduring role as a hub of culture and commerce.
Tregu Agro-Ushqimor Durrës - Durrës’s Agro-Food market serves as a vital hub for residents and visitors alike. If you seek both economical and high-quality food options, along with insights into Albanian culinary traditions and cooking recipes, this tour stop is perfect for you. It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich culinary heritage of Albania while discovering the best food finds to enjoy at home or on the go.
Stacioni i Trenit Durrës - Our tour culminates at the train station square, unveiling intercity transport options and the Train Station’s architectural legacy from the communist era. We’ll discuss its pivotal role and function, tracing its roots to the inauguration of the railway line in 1917. Join us to uncover the rich history and evolution of this landmark, shaping the city’s mobility landscape over the years.

What's Included

Printed Historical Maps

Additional Information

Anyone who chooses to explore and visit the city of Durrës with me will be immersed in a narrative intertwined with academic, historical, and social knowledge of the city.

This means that together, we will engage in structured discussions about the city’s construction, drawing from insights in urban planning and architecture. You will receive an important list of international bibliographic resources to deepen your research.

We will uncover the city’s historical and political transitions that have significantly shaped its landscape. Through these narratives, you will develop the knowledge and empathy needed to comprehend the social and cultural dynamics of Durrës’ inhabitants.

Together, we will explore a range of city-related information that will familiarize you with its layout and its significance as your birthplace – collaboratively crafting, for you, a new sense of hometown

Location

Venetian Tower of Durrës

You can reach the Venetian Tower of Durrës by walking, biking, taxi, (with free public parking available). I will be situated within the western wing of the Venetian Tower, adjacent to the Monument a Martyr, renowned as the figure with the open hand. URBAN DISCOVERIES city tours sign

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings

5.0

(10 Ratings)

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1 star

Maia

Jul 7, 2024

Knowledgeable and passionate. - Artan knows his history and Durres inside out. He cares passionately about his country and shares personal stories and views that give you a real sense for the place. With older teens in tow, it’s fair to say, he faced the challenge of keeping them engaged, which he rose to. If you’re looking for a quite a serious, considered tour from a subject matter expert, Artan is your man.