DURRES, ALBANIA

Discover the wonders of the ancient city of Kruja.

Leaving the pier, we first visit two important sites in Durres, one of Albania’s oldest cities and the country’s main seaport. We shall visit the Roman amphitheatre, which was built in the 2nd century AD during the reign of Emperor Adrian.

Next, we visit the Archaeological Museum, where we can discover how the ancient city may have looked. Re-boarding our tour coach, we travel in a northwesterly direction, past age-old olive trees and lime-kilns, to the coniferous and springwater region at the foot of the Skenderbej and Dajti Mountains. Here we will discover the medieval city of Kruja, which was once the ancient capital of Albania.

As we drive along the mountain road, the citadel – dramatically situated high on a mountain spur – becomes immediately visible, and there are magnificent views across the coastal plain to the sea.

During our walking tour of Kruja, we will discover the citadel, which was built during the 14th century, and its pleasant views, and the old bazaar, built during the 17th century under Turkish rule. We shall also visit the Ethnographic Museum and the National Museum, built in the grounds of the old Kruja fortress, which illustrates the life and activity of Skenderbej, the national hero. Following our visit of Kruja, we can enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, before re-boarding our tour coach for the return journey to the quayside.

TOUR NOTES: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, some of which will be over steep and cobbled ground. Please note that the terrain inside the castle is cobbled, and therefore may be difficult for passengers with limited mobility to negotiate. There are approximately ten steps to negotiate to enter the Museum of Skenderbej. Places of interest may be visited in a different order to that described. Lunch includes one bottle of water per person. Please note that toilet facilities may be basic.

DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR 2009 CANARIES & MEDITERRANEAN CRUISES