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Venetian Tower of Durrës

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Venetian Tower of Durrës is a prominent part of the ancient city walls and one of the best-preserved medieval structures in this historic port city. Built in the 15th century by the Venetians atop the foundations of an earlier Byzantine fortification, the tower was designed to protect the strategic harbor from Ottoman incursions. It is characterized by its circular shape and massive walls, which were once equipped with heavy cannons to ensure the defense of the Adriatic coastline. Throughout history, the tower has served various roles, from a strategic observation post to a prison during the Ottoman period. Today, the tower is a popular destination for tourists and often hosts exhibitions or cultural events that highlight the maritime heritage of Durrës. From the platform at the top of the tower, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of the modern port and the surrounding coastline. As a symbol of the city's complex history, the structure has been carefully restored and integrated into the contemporary urban landscape.

Location: Albania
Top sights: Roman Amphitheatre of Durrës · Stadtmauer · View of the amphitheater
Nearby: Rinia (9 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	19	23	26	26	23	19	15	11
Rain mm	118	106	97	77	66	47	27	28	88	110	138	136

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The Venetian Tower in Durrës is a free-standing structure, viewable from the outside at any time. The interior is not normally open to the public as it is not a museum.

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Typical hours

The exterior of the tower is visible around the clock as it stands on a public road. To view it in peace, choose early morning or evening when traffic is lighter.

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Photography

The tower can be photographed from the outside anytime without restrictions. For a good shot, position yourself on the opposite side of the street to capture the whole tower.

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Time needed

A short stop to view and photograph the tower takes 5-10 minutes. Those wishing to appreciate its history and integration into the Byzantine walls may linger a bit longer.

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Combine with

The tower is near Durrës port and the Byzantine forum, both within walking distance. The Durrës Archaeological Museum and the Venetian fortress are also worthwhile destinations.

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Getting there

The tower stands on the coastal road 'Rruga Taulantia' in Durrës, easily reached by car or bus. Parking is available at the nearby promenade but often scarce.

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Insider tip

Combine the visit with a stroll along the coastal promenade that passes directly by the tower. Early morning has beautiful light and a quieter promenade.

Geography

Coordinates

41.31170, 19.44440

Facts

The tower was built in the 15th century during the Venetian rule.
It stands on the foundations of a 6th-century Byzantine wall.
The structure has a circular floor plan with a diameter of 9 meters.
The massive walls reach a thickness of up to 3.7 meters.
During the Ottoman period, the tower was temporarily used as a prison.
The current restoration has turned the tower into a center for digital exhibitions.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Amphitheatre of Durrës<1 km · NEExplore →

Durrës2 km · NEExplore →

Arapaj4 km · EExplore →

Rinia9 km · NExplore →

Katund i Ri10 km · NEExplore →

Shijak11 km · EExplore →

Sukth11 km · NEExplore →

Qerret13 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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Overnight stops

Vehicle

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

Sights in the town Venetian Tower 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💶

Stadtmauer

Remains of the ancient city wall of Durrës.

View of the amphitheater

Viewpoint overlooking the Roman amphitheatre of Durrës.

Alte Stadtmauer

Older section of the city fortifications of Durrës.

Turm der historischen Stadtmauer

Preserved tower of the historic city wall of Durrës.

Shtepia e Aleksander Moisiut🏛 museum

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

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.

Durrës Castle🏰 castle

Castle in Durrës, a cultural heritage monument of Albania, with Byzantine and Venetian walls.

Ancient Columns

Ancient column remains in Durrës, evidence of the Roman past.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where is the Venetian Tower located?

At the port of Durrës, as part of the old city walls.

What is in the tower today?

It is often used as a bar or restaurant.

What period is the tower from?

It was built in the 15th century on Byzantine ruins.

Can you go onto the terrace?

Yes, there is a good view of the sea from the top.

Is access paid?

Access to the bar/restaurant is free; consumption is expected.

Venetian Tower of Durrës: where is it located?

Venetian Tower of Durrës is located in Albania.

Venetian Tower of Durrës: what is there to see?

Highlights include Roman Amphitheatre of Durrës, Stadtmauer, View of the amphitheater.

Venetian Tower of Durrës: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.

Venetian Tower of Durrës: why is it worth visiting?

The Venetian Tower of Durrës is a prominent part of the ancient city walls and one of the best-preserved medieval structures in this historic port city.

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