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Albanopolis

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

ruins

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Albanopolis, located near the village of Zgërdhesh close to Krujë, is one of the most significant Illyrian settlements and is widely linked to the modern name of Albania. The city was first documented in the 2nd century AD by the geographer Ptolemy, who identified it as the capital of the Albanoi tribe. However, archaeological evidence shows that the site was established as early as the 7th century BC, reaching its zenith during the 3rd and 2nd centuries BC. The settlement covered approximately 10 hectares and was defended by massive cyclopean walls, sections of which remain visible on the hillside today. Excavations have uncovered not only fortifications but also residential remains, pottery workshops, and terraced structures, pointing to a highly developed urban society. Albanopolis served as a vital commercial link between the Illyrian hinterland and the Adriatic coast. The discovery of this site has been instrumental in understanding the ethnogenesis of the Albanian people and their connections to ancient Illyrian tribes.

Location: Albania
Top sights: Early Christian Church · Kraste-Verjon Protected Landscape · Zgërdhesh
Nearby: Shkret (4 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	2	3	7	11	15	20	24	24	18	13	8	3
Rain mm	93	83	77	69	64	45	29	27	74	95	109	109

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The ruins of Albanopolis are freely accessible and can be visited at any time. The remains of the Illyrian settlement are scattered across a hilly area.

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Typical hours

As it is an open archaeological site, there are no fixed opening hours. Visiting during daylight is recommended to safely explore the structures.

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Photography

Photography is allowed across the entire site without restrictions. The expansive landscape with ruins has good panoramic shots.

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Time needed

Allow about 45 minutes to an hour for a walk around the site. Those wanting to explore the surroundings should plan for two hours.

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Combine with

Combine your visit with nearby Kruja city and its medieval castle. The capital Tirana is also only about 20 kilometers away.

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Getting there

The ruins are about 2 kilometers northwest of the village of Zgërdhesh and accessible via an unpaved road. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended, especially in rainy weather.

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Insider tip

Bring a detailed map or GPS as the ruins are not signposted. Sturdy footwear is essential due to the uneven terrain.

Geography

Coordinates

41.47800, 19.78200

Facts

First mentioned in the 2nd century AD by the geographer Ptolemy.
The settlement was established as early as the 7th century BC.
The fortified urban area spanned approximately 10 hectares.
Massive walls dating to the 4th century BC protected the city.
It was the historical capital of the Illyrian tribe known as the Albanoi.
The ruins are located on a hill near the village of Zgërdhesh.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Krujë Castle3 km · NExplore →

Fushë-Krujë5 km · WExplore →

Skanderbeg Museum6 km · NWExplore →

Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza9 km · SWExplore →

Bovilla Lake10 km · EExplore →

Preza Castle11 km · SWExplore →

Kamëz11 km · SExplore →

Shtamë Pass National Park11 km · NEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Albanopolis (3)

Early Christian Church

Foundations of an early Christian church from the 5th, 6th century.

Kraste-Verjon Protected Landscape

Protected landscape with forests and hills near Tirana.

Zgërdhesh

Archaeological site in Albania, remains of an Illyrian settlement.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where is Albanopolis located?

The ancient site is located near the village of Zgërdhesh, close to Krujë in Central Albania.

Why is this place important?

It is believed to have been the capital of the Illyrian tribe of the Albani, from whom the country takes its name.

What can you see there today?

You can see remains of the massive cyclopean walls and foundations of buildings on a hill.

Is there an entry fee for the archaeological site?

Currently, access is mostly free as the site is not officially fenced or guarded.

How is the way up?

It is an easy hike uphill. Good footwear is recommended as the terrain is uneven.

Albanopolis: where is it located?

Albanopolis is located in Albania.

Albanopolis: what is there to see?

Highlights include Early Christian Church, Kraste-Verjon Protected Landscape, Zgërdhesh.

Albanopolis: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Albanopolis: why is it worth visiting?

Albanopolis, located near the village of Zgërdhesh close to Krujë, is one of the most significant Illyrian settlements and is widely linked to the modern name of Albania.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →

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