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Amphitheatre of Durrës

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Amphitheatre of Durrës (Albania)

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The Amphitheatre of Durrës is the largest of its kind in the Balkan Peninsula and one of the most significant ancient monuments in Albania. Built in the 2nd century AD during the reign of Roman Emperor Trajan, it had a seating capacity of approximately 15,000 to 20,000 spectators who gathered to watch gladiatorial contests and wild animal hunts. The structure remained hidden for centuries until its accidental rediscovery in 1966 during excavation work in a private garden. A unique feature of the amphitheatre is the 6th-century Christian chapel built within its galleries, which is decorated with rare and well-preserved wall mosaics. These mosaics depict Christian saints and motifs, providing evidence of the early spread of Christianity in the region. Since parts of the amphitheatre were built over by later structures, about two-thirds of the original layout is currently excavated and open to visitors. The monument is on the UNESCO World Heritage tentative list and stands as a fascinating testament to Roman engineering on the Adriatic coast.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C101012151923262623191511
Rain mm11810697776647272888110138136

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Amphitheatre of Durrës is open to visitors and can be visited for a small entrance fee. The ruins are partially covered and protected.
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Typical hours
The amphitheatre is typically open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours in summer. It is advisable to check current times on-site.
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Photography
Photography is allowed inside the amphitheatre, but without flash to protect the structures. The underground passages offer unique photo opportunities.
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Time needed
Allow about 30 to 45 minutes for a walk through the amphitheatre. Those wanting to see the surrounding exhibitions should plan for one hour.
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Combine with
Combine your visit with the Archaeological Museum of Durrës, just a few minutes' walk away. The Byzantine city walls are also worth a stroll.
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Getting there
The amphitheatre is located in central Durrës, a few minutes' walk from the port. It is easily reachable by bus or taxi, parking in the area is limited.
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Insider tip
Visit the amphitheatre early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Wear comfortable shoes as the old stone floors can be uneven.

Geography

Coordinates
41.31220, 19.44520

Facts

  • Built in the 2nd century AD under the reign of Emperor Trajan.
  • It accommodated up to 20,000 spectators for gladiatorial games.
  • The accidental rediscovery of the site occurred as recently as 1966.
  • In the 6th century, a Christian chapel was built into the structure.
  • The wall mosaics depict various figures, including Saint Stephen.
  • The structure has an elliptical shape with a diameter of 132 meters.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Great Mosque of DurrësGreat Mosque of Durrës<1 km · NExplore →
DurrësDurrës2 km · NEExplore →
ArapajArapaj3 km · SEExplore →
RiniaRinia9 km · NExplore →
Katund i RiKatund i Ri10 km · NEExplore →
ShijakShijak11 km · EExplore →
SukthSukth11 km · NEExplore →
GolemGolem13 km · SEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

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

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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Amphitheatre of Durrës (10)

Roman Amphitheatre of Durrës

Roman amphitheatre in Durrës, Albania, from the 2nd century AD, with seating rows and corridors.

🕒 Tu-Sa 09:00-16:00; Su 09:00-14:00💶

View of the amphitheater

Viewpoint overlooking the Roman amphitheatre of Durrës.

Alte Stadtmauer

Older section of the city fortifications of Durrës.

Stadtmauer

Remains of the ancient city wall of Durrës.

Xhamia e Madhe e Durrësit

Great Mosque in Durrës, a historic site from the 16th century.

Ancient Well

Ancient well in Durrës, dating from antiquity.

Turm der historischen Stadtmauer

Preserved tower of the historic city wall of Durrës.

Wall of turk period 1502

Wall from the Ottoman period, built in 1502, in Durrës.

Catholic Church of Saint Lucia

Catholic church in Durrës, Albania, dedicated to Saint Lucy.

Shtepia e Aleksander Moisiut🏛 museum

Birthplace of actor Aleksandër Moisiu in Durrës, now a museum.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

When was the amphitheater built?
It was built in the 2nd century AD during Emperor Trajan's reign.
What was the spectator capacity?
It could hold approximately 15,000 to 20,000 spectators.
Is there a chapel inside?
Yes, a 6th-century Byzantine chapel with mosaics is located inside.
Where is it located in Durrës?
In the city center, about 10 minutes walk from the port.
What are the opening hours?
Usually open daily from 09:00 to 19:00 during summer.
Amphitheatre of Durrës: where is it located?
Amphitheatre of Durrës is located in Albania.
Amphitheatre of Durrës: what is there to see?
Highlights include Roman Amphitheatre of Durrës, View of the amphitheater, Alte Stadtmauer.
Amphitheatre of Durrës: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.
Amphitheatre of Durrës: why is it worth visiting?
The Amphitheatre of Durrës is the largest of its kind in the Balkan Peninsula and one of the most significant ancient monuments in Albania.
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