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Oricum

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

ruins

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Oricum was an ancient port city on the Bay of Vlora, founded according to ancient sources by Euboeans in the 8th or 7th century BC. Due to its sheltered location, Oricum served as a strategically important naval base and trading hub between the Adriatic and Ionian Seas. The city gained fame through its mention in Julius Caesar's accounts of the civil war against Pompey in 48 BC, when Caesar landed here to begin his Balkan campaigns. The archaeological site is characterized by a monument carved into the rock, which was long interpreted as a theater but is now considered a monumental water basin or nymphaeum. Near the ancient ruins lies the medieval Marmiroi Church, a significant example of 12th-century Byzantine architecture. Oricum remained inhabited until the Ottoman period and continues to be a key location for understanding maritime history and military strategies in antiquity.

Location: Albania
Top sights: Gate of Caesar · Theatre · Stairways
Nearby: Karaburun-Sazan (17 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	10	10	12	15	18	23	26	26	22	19	15	11
Rain mm	103	90	82	61	57	36	22	26	80	98	123	128

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The ruins of Oricum are an open-air site, visitable anytime. You can explore the small theater and remnants of the harbor facilities.

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Typical hours

As an archaeological site without enclosed areas, there are no opening hours. Daytime visits are recommended.

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Photography

Photography is allowed everywhere on the site without restrictions. The best shots are at the small theater overlooking the sea.

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Time needed

A visit to the ruins takes about 30-45 minutes. Those appreciating historical significance may stay longer.

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Combine with

Combine Oricum with nearby Apollonia and the city of Vlorë. Both are a short drive away.

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Getting there

The ruins lie on the Adriatic coast near the town of Orikum. They are reachable by car from Vlorë.

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Insider tip

Wear sturdy footwear as the terrain is uneven. A guidebook about the Roman civil wars enriches the visit.

Geography

Coordinates

40.31970, 19.42940

Facts

Founded in the 8th/7th century BC by Greek colonists.
A key site in the civil war between Caesar and Pompey in 48 BC.
Features a unique nymphaeum (water basin) carved into the bedrock.
The nearby Marmiroi Church dates back to the 12th century.
Served as a major naval base during World War II.
Currently located within the Pashaliman Albanian military base.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Marmiroi Church1 km · SExplore →

Orikum Lagoon4 km · EExplore →

Gjon Boçari Castle8 km · EExplore →

Karaburun Peninsula9 km · NWExplore →

Grama Bay12 km · SExplore →

Vjosa River12 km · NEExplore →

Battle of Vlora Site14 km · NEExplore →

Port of Vlorë15 km · NExplore →

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 Oricum (9)

Gate of Caesar

City gate in Oricum, mentioned by Caesar in his writings, from Roman times.

Theatre

Small ancient theatre in Oricum, carved into the rock, with seating.

Stairways

Rock-cut stairways of the ancient city Oricum, leading to harbor and town.

National Archaeological Park of Oricum

Archaeological park, ancient city and excavation site on the Albanian coast.

Military Control (no entry)

Military controlled area, no entry for visitors.

🌐 akt.gov.al💶

National Archeological Park of Orikum🏛 museum

Museum in the Oricum archaeological park, displaying ancient artifacts.

Church of Marmiroi

13th-century Byzantine church, cultural monument in Albania.

Rrënoja

Ruins area with wall fragments and building foundations in Oricum.

"Karaburun" Managed Nature Reserve

Nature reserve on the Karaburun peninsula, with maquis and rocky cliffs.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

When is the Oricum Archaeological Park open?

The park is open daily from 09:00 to 17:00. As it is located within a naval base, a valid ID is required for entry.

How much is the entrance fee for Oricum?

The entrance fee is approximately 200 to 300 ALL (about 2-3 Euros) per person.

Is photography allowed at the Oricum site?

Photography of the ruins is permitted, but taking photos of the military installations on the base is strictly forbidden.

What are the main sights in Oricum?

Highlights include the ancient theater, Roman steps, and the nearby 13th-century Marmiroi Church.

How much time should I plan for a visit?

A tour of the excavations typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours.

Oricum: where is it located?

Oricum is located in Albania.

Oricum: what is there to see?

Highlights include Gate of Caesar, Theatre, Stairways.

Oricum: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.

Oricum: why is it worth visiting?

Oricum was an ancient port city on the Bay of Vlora, founded according to ancient sources by Euboeans in the 8th or 7th century BC.

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