Durrës Amphitheatre — Attraction in Bashkia Durrës

As others have said, no much in way of explanations really

Construction began under Trajan  in the 2nd century AD and it was destroyed twice by earthquakes in the 6th and 10th centuries. It is the largest Roman amphitheatre ever built in the Balkan Peninsula, once having a capacity of 18- 20,000 people.

The amphitheatre was built in the beginning of the 2nd century AD, and was used for performances until the 4th century AD. The earthquake of 345/346 likely damaged the monument and closed the 'ludii gladiatorii'. An early Christian chapel was constructed on the amphitheatre in the second half of the 4th century. The chapel was initially decorated with frescoes; in the 6th century, mosaics were added.A medieval chapel was built in the 13th century, also decorated with frescoes. The amphitheatre was covered over in the 16th century, after the Ottoman occupation, when a wall was built nearby. Marin Barleti described the monument as 'well constructed'.

About one third of the site was discovered and excavated in the 1960s by Vangjel Toci; the rest was excavated in the 1980s by Lida Miraj. After excavation the amphitheater slowly deteriorated, as no conservation efforts were undertaken prior to the 2000s, and construction continued to take place around the site. In 2004, the University of Parma started restoration work to save...

Review of the Amphitheatre in Durres

During my visit to Durres, I had the chance to explore its iconic amphitheatre, and it left a lasting impression on me. This Roman amphitheatre, one of the largest in the Balkans, was built in the 2nd century AD under Emperor Trajan. Standing in its vast arena, I could almost feel the energy of the crowds who once gathered here to witness gladiator battles and other grand spectacles.

Despite the centuries that have passed, much of the structure has been well-preserved, and its historical significance is undeniable. One of the highlights for me was discovering the small Christian chapel within the amphitheatre, adorned with beautiful mosaics. It was fascinating to see how the site transitioned from a Roman entertainment venue to a place of worship during the Byzantine era.

Walking through the tunnels and seating areas, I was struck by the blend of ancient architecture and the vibrant modern life surrounding the site. Its central location in Durres also provides a unique contrast between history and the bustling city.

Visiting the amphitheatre was a memorable experience, and I highly recommend it to anyone interested in history, culture, or simply exploring Albania’s rich heritage. It truly feels like stepping...

The Durrës Amphitheatre is an ancient marvel that transports visitors back in time to the heart of Roman civilization. This remarkably preserved archaeological site, located near the shores of the Adriatic Sea, is a testament to the grandeur of the past. The amphitheatre's construction, dating back to the 2nd century AD, was once capable of accommodating up to 20,000 spectators for various events and gladiatorial contests. Its massive stone walls and tiered seating create an awe-inspiring atmosphere, and the underground chambers, once used for staging and animal housing, provide a fascinating glimpse into the logistical aspects of ancient entertainment. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply appreciate the beauty of ancient architecture, the Durrës Amphitheatre is a must-visit destination that evokes the grandeur of...