Hello from Durrës, Albania!
Albania has truly been a delightful surprise! My flight here was easy, starting in Manchester and making my way to Vienna, Austria, before finally reaching the beautiful country of Albania. After a relaxing night in Tirana, the capital city, I hopped on a quick thirty-minute Uber ride to Durrës.
I'm now staying in an Airbnb on the 11th floor of a high-rise, and the view is spectacular! I can gaze out at the Town Square and even catch a glimpse of the beautiful Adriatic Sea. It's a refreshing change from Airbnb stays in the UK. Durrës is a fairly small coastal beach town that's perfect for strolling around. There's so much to explore and enjoy here. The local restaurants are abundant and ready to be explored. As for historical sites and attractions, here are a couple I've had the pleasure of checking out:
Sphinx of Durrës
The Sphinx of Durrës, also known as Cape Square, is undeniably one of the most enchanting spots in Durrës for catching a breathtaking sunset. This modern architectural marvel was completed in 2015 and beautifully emulates the iconic sphinx in Egypt.
Remarkably, this inviting public space came to life in just a few short months, thanks to the incredible craftsmanship that went into its construction. It's not just a static structure – it's a place where you can sit back, climb around, or enjoy some playful moments. It's also a popular backdrop for music videos and wedding photos, adding a touch of magic to special occasions.
From this vantage point, you can gaze out at the remarkable transformation of the once desolate promenade into a thriving hub that's increasingly drawing both tourists and locals alike. The area is adorned with great restaurants and shops, and it truly comes alive, especially as the night falls, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere.
All in all, the Sphinx of Durrës is a lovely place to unwind and enjoy the beauty of the setting sun.
Durrës Amphitheater
The Durrës Amphitheater is a magnificent ancient Roman structure here in Durrës. Dating back to the 2nd century AD, it is one of the largest amphitheaters in the Balkan region, boasting a capacity to accommodate up to 20,000 spectators.
With its impressive semicircular design, grand entrances, and intricate architectural details, the Durrës Amphitheater serves as a captivating reminder of the ancient world.
The Durrës Amphitheater was a venue for various events and spectacles during ancient times. It hosted gladiatorial games, which were popular forms of entertainment in the Roman Empire. The amphitheater also witnessed theatrical performances, including plays and musical shows, providing a platform for artistic expression. Additionally, public gatherings, religious ceremonies, and political events might have taken place within its walls.
Venetian Tower
The Venetian Tower of Durrës stands as a historic emblem of the city's rich past. Dating back to the late 15th century, during the Venetian rule of the region, this imposing tower once served as a key defensive structure against seafaring threats. With its distinctive cylindrical design and robust stone construction, it offers a glimpse into the maritime history of Durrës.
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Finally...
Durrës has been absolutely fantastic, but I'm gearing up for an exciting change as I head to Tirana for the entire month of November. Being the capital city, I'm sure the experience will be a bit different, and I can't wait to dive into all the new adventures and sights it has to offer.
After my wonderful Albanian adventure, my next stop is Portugal for a few months. This will mark my second Christmas spent there, and I'm really looking forward to reuniting with the friends I made during my memorable 10-month stay back in 2021!
I really appreciate those who have been reading this blog. Thanks for following along!
ACTOR // FILMMAKER // TRAVEL BLOGGER
Bob Tapper
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