A Day Trip to Durres and Kruje: Uncovering the Rich History of Albania

As an avid traveler, I have always been fascinated by the history and culture of different countries. Albania, located in the Balkans, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. My recent day trip to Durres and Kruje, two of Albania’s most historic cities, was nothing short of magical. In this article, I will take you through my journey of uncovering the rich history of Albania.

Introduction to Durres and Kruje

Durres and Kruje are two of Albania’s most historic cities, both located within an hour’s drive from the capital city, Tirana. Durres is the second-largest city in Albania and has a rich history dating back to the 7th century BC. Kruje, on the other hand, is a small mountain town that was once the stronghold of Skanderbeg, Albania’s national hero.

Durres: The Old City by the Sea

Durres is a beautiful city located on the Adriatic Sea, known for its stunning beaches and rich history. As soon as I arrived in Durres, I was struck by the beauty of the city’s old town. The narrow streets lined with colorful buildings and the sound of the sea in the background made for a perfect setting.

Exploring the Archeological Museum in Durres

Durres is home to one of Albania’s most important museums, the Archeological Museum. The museum is located in the heart of the city and houses a vast collection of artifacts dating back to the Illyrian and Roman periods. I was amazed by the collection of ancient pottery, jewelry, and sculptures on display at the museum.

Enjoying the Best Fish in Albania

Albania is known for its delicious seafood, and Durres is the perfect place to sample some of the best fish in the country. I visited a local restaurant in the old town and tried their specialty, grilled sea bream. The fish was cooked to perfection, and the flavors were incredible.

Sunsets in Durres: A Magical Experience

One of the highlights of my trip to Durres was watching the sunset over the Adriatic Sea. The sky turned into shades of orange and pink, and the sound of the waves crashing against the shore made for a magical experience. I sat on the beach and watched as the sun slowly disappeared behind the horizon.

Kruje: The City of Skanderbeg

Kruje is a small mountain town located about 20 miles north of Durres. The town is known for its historic castle and museum, which is dedicated to Skanderbeg, Albania’s national hero. Skanderbeg was a 15th-century nobleman who fought against the Ottoman Empire and is considered a symbol of Albanian resistance.

Discovering the Past and Present of Kruje

Kruje has a rich history that dates back to the Illyrian period. The town has been inhabited for over 2,500 years and has played an important role in Albania’s history. I spent the morning exploring the town’s narrow streets, admiring the traditional houses and local shops.

Visiting the Kruje Castle and Museum

The Kruje Castle is one of the most important landmarks in Albania and is located on a hill overlooking the town. The castle was built in the 5th century and played an important role in defending the town against invaders. The Skanderbeg Museum, located inside the castle, is dedicated to Albania’s national hero and houses a collection of artifacts and weapons from the 15th century.

Souvenir Shopping in Kruje’s Old Bazaar

Kruje’s Old Bazaar is a traditional market that has been in operation for over 500 years. The market is located in the heart of the old town and is known for its handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional Albanian clothing. I spent some time wandering through the market, admiring the colorful stalls and picking up some souvenirs to take back home.

Conclusion: An Unforgettable Day Trip to Durres and Kruje

My day trip to Durres and Kruje was an unforgettable experience that allowed me to uncover the rich history and culture of Albania. From exploring the Archeological Museum in Durres to watching the sunset over the Adriatic Sea, and visiting the Kruje Castle and Museum, there was never a dull moment. I highly recommend a visit to these historic cities to anyone who wants to experience the beauty of Albania.

CTA: Plan your own day trip to Durres and Kruje and experience the rich history and culture of Albania for yourself!