TIRANA, Sept. 20 /ATA/ – Cultural heritage monuments and archaeological parks in the Vlora region are increasingly establishing themselves as key attractions within Albania’s tourism offering, drawing thousands of domestic and international visitors throughout the year.
According to Orges Feimi, Director of the Regional Directorate of Cultural Heritage (DRTK) Vlora, a total of 51,104 visitors toured seven monuments and archaeological parks under the institution’s administration between January and August 2026, compared with 46,167 visitors during the same period last year.
The increase was recorded despite the temporary closure of Kanina Castle, which has remained inaccessible to the public due to ongoing restoration works.
Visitors have shown strong interest in the region’s rich history, architecture and cultural heritage.
“Historical monuments represent an important component of Vlora’s tourism offer, complementing the region’s well-known coastal attractions. The highest visitor numbers are recorded during the summer season, particularly in July and August, while September continues to show strong interest in heritage sites,” Feimi said.
At the top of the list of the most visited monuments stands Porto Palermo Castle, which welcomed 34,717 visitors between January and August 31, 2026, making it one of the most frequented cultural heritage sites in southern Albania.
The growing number of visitors to monuments and archaeological parks also reflects a broader diversification of tourism in the region, where cultural and historical heritage is increasingly complementing the appeal of beaches and natural landscapes.
The sites managed by DRTK Vlora include the Amantia Archaeological Park, Finiq Archaeological Park, Orikum Archaeological Park, the Monastery of the Forty Saints in Saranda, the Church of St. Nicholas Monastery in Mesopotam, Kanina Castle, and Ali Pasha Castle in Porto Palermo.
These sites continue to play a significant role in the region’s tourism itineraries, offering visitors an opportunity to explore the history and cultural legacy of southern Albania while enriching the area’s overall tourism product.
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