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Butrint Amphitheatre

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The ancient theater of Butrint is one of the most impeccably preserved monuments within the Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site in southern Albania. Originally constructed in the 3rd century BC in Hellenistic style at the foot of the acropolis, it was significantly remodeled and expanded during the Roman Imperial period in the 2nd century AD. The theater accommodated approximately 2,500 spectators and served as the focal point for the city's religious and cultural activities. Notably, the stone blocks of the stage are inscribed with numerous Greek texts documenting the manumission of slaves, providing invaluable historical insights into ancient social life. Due to its proximity to the Vivari Channel, the orchestra section is frequently partially submerged in water, lending the site a mystical and evocative atmosphere. The synthesis of Greek architectural foundations, Roman enhancements, and the surrounding lush Mediterranean flora makes this theater a quintessential example of classical antiquity in the region.

Location: Albania
Top sights: Columns · Roman Bath-House · Venetian Triangular Castle
Nearby: Agios Stefanos (7 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	11	11	13	16	19	24	26	27	24	20	16	13
Rain mm	125	110	96	55	42	27	16	25	81	115	151	155

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The Butrint Amphitheatre is part of the Butrint National Park and can only be visited with an entrance ticket. The ruin is outdoors and easily walkable.

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Typical hours

The national park is typically open daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, closing earlier in winter months. It is advisable to check current hours before your visit.

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Photography

Photography is allowed throughout the park and especially in the amphitheatre. The acoustics and the view of the stage offer unique photo opportunities.

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Time needed

Allow at least 2 to 3 hours for the entire Butrint National Park to see all the ruins. For the amphitheatre alone, about 30 minutes is enough.

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Combine with

Combine your visit with a boat trip on the Vivari Channel or a visit to the Venetian Triangular Castle opposite. The beaches of Ksamil are also just a short drive away.

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Getting there

Butrint is located about 18 kilometers south of Saranda and is accessible by car or bus. Follow the signs from the main road; there is a large parking lot at the entrance.

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Insider tip

Visit the park early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds. Bring comfortable shoes, water, and a hat, as the site is extensive and sunny.

Geography

Coordinates

39.74340, 20.01950

Facts

The seating area consists of 23 rows of stone benches.
Inscriptions found here document the liberation of over 400 individuals.
The Roman stage house originally featured elaborate niches for imperial statues.
Large-scale excavations of the theater were led by Luigi Maria Ugolini in 1928.
The site is part of a sanctuary complex dedicated to Asclepius, the god of medicine.
Modern drainage challenges are managed to protect the ancient stonework.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Venetian Triangular Castle<1 km · WExplore →

Butrint Wetland2 km · SWExplore →

Xarrë3 km · SExplore →

Ksamil3 km · NWExplore →

Agios Stefanos7 km · NWExplore →

Manastir7 km · NExplore →

Kalami7 km · WExplore →

Agnitsini8 km · WExplore →

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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Overnight stops

Vehicle

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

Sights in the town Butrint Amphitheatre (10)

Columns

Ancient column remains in Butrint, part of the archaeological site.

Roman Bath-House

Roman bathhouse in Butrint, remains of ancient baths.

Venetian Triangular Castle 🏰 castle

Venetian fortress in Butrint, triangular layout.

🌐 butrint.org

Prytaneion

Ancient town hall in Butrint, seat of city administration.

Archaeological Museum of Butrint 🏛 museum

Museum in Butrint with finds from the ancient city.

🌐 butrint.org

Buthrotum

Ancient city in Albania, major archaeological site.

Venetian Acropolis Castle🏰 castle

Reconstructed Venetian castle on the acropolis of Butrint.

Medieval city wall

Medieval city wall in Butrint, ruin.

Stadttor

Ancient city gate in Butrint, ruin.

Venetian Tower

Venetian tower in Butrint, ruin.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where is the amphitheater located?

Within the Butrint National Park in southern Albania.

How old is the theater?

It dates originally from the 3rd century BC.

How many spectators did it hold?

It held about 1,500 to 2,500 spectators.

Is it a UNESCO World Heritage site?

Yes, Butrint is one of the most significant UNESCO sites in the country.

What should you bring for the visit?

Insect repellent, as the area is marshy.

Butrint Amphitheatre: where is it located?

Butrint Amphitheatre is located in Albania.

Butrint Amphitheatre: what is there to see?

Highlights include Columns, Roman Bath-House, Venetian Triangular Castle.

Butrint Amphitheatre: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.

Butrint Amphitheatre: why is it worth visiting?

The ancient theater of Butrint is one of the most impeccably preserved monuments within the Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site in southern Albania.

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