Located in the south of the country, the city of Butrinti is an essential stop on any journey to the 'Land of Eagles'! The reason? In addition to being UNESCO-listed, it is home to Ali Pacha's Castle and one of Albanie's most beautiful natural and historical sites. Indeed, the Butrint National Park is renowned for its archaeological site and its salt lake… Follow us and discover why Butrint is a must-see destination in Albanie!

Butrint National Park

Its Landscapes

   
Spanning more than 9,400 hectares, Butrint National Park is located approximately twenty kilometers south of Sarandë. It is composed of plains, mountains, and reed beds (wetland zones bordering ponds, lakes, etc.). To the south of Parku Kombëtar i Butrintit lies the Mile mountain range (Mali i Millëtit).

The reason for such diversity? Tectonic movements and an ever-lowering sea level have reshaped Butrint's landscape over the centuries, transforming marine zones into salt marshes.

Its Fauna and Flora

Among these diverse and undulating landscapes live red foxes, otters, and jackals. Offshore? You may be fortunate enough to spot dolphins! Butrint National Park is also renowned for its substantial community of sea turtles (Leatherback and Loggerhead) and for being one of the last habitats of the Mediterranean monk seal.

Birdwatching enthusiasts will have the chance to see the Great Cormorant or the majestic Golden Eagle (the site is recognized by the prestigious BirdLife International). As for flora? The park is home to 900 species!

Its Cultural Heritage

Inhabited since prehistoric times, Butrint bears witness to a rich historical past, from the Bronze Age to the nineteenth century. Want to learn more? Follow us on a tour of the archaeological site…

2. The Butrint Archaeological Site

   
Formerly known as Buthrotum, the archaeological site of Butrint ranks among the finest in the Balkans. Inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list, it combines natural and historical treasures. Among these gems of Albanie? Don't miss:

The Venetian Tower

Dating from the sixteenth century, this structure once served as a warehouse for fishing equipment. It is notable for its unusual square shape (and for the remains of a Roman bath situated at its base).

The Sanctuary of Asclepius

Designed in the fourth century BCE, this temple is dedicated to Asclepius, the god of medicine. He is renowned for his healing powers and his 'Staff of Asclepius' (a staff around which a serpent coils, which inspired the symbol of the Hippocratic oath).

The Theater

Erected in the third century BCE, this is Butrint's most famous structure. Every July, it hosts an international theater festival. An opportunity to see ancient plays—performed in their original language—by actors from around the world!

The Great Basilica

This immense church with a basilical plan is among the best-preserved in the region. Located near the main gate, it features three naves. Its numerous remains hint at its former grandeur!

The Lion Gate

Named for the relief adorning the building (showing a lion attacking an ox), the gate once belonged to Greek fortifications. The gate visible today is actually a reconstruction dating from the medieval period.

The Baptistery

Dating from the sixth century, this paleochristian baptistery is renowned for its mosaic… A secret? Don't look for it, as it is hidden beneath sand (to ensure its preservation).

The Castle and Museum

The Muzeu Arkeologjik i Butrintit is housed in the basement of a thirteenth-century Byzantine fort. It displays coins and Greco-Roman objects discovered at the site during the 1920s-1930s.

3. Butrint Lake

   
Butrint Lake is an unmissable destination. Stretching over 16 kilometers, it is connected to the sea by the Vivari Canal. This magnificent salt lagoon is featured on the Ramsar list and is recognized as an important spawning ground—a breeding site for fish and crustaceans.

A tip? Visit the lake aboard a fishing boat (piloted by a local fisherman)! You will discover its various aquaculture operations, including mussel farming. Some boat excursions include a tasting.

Park Access Information

Entrance fee: 700 LEK per person (approximately €6).

Duration of visit: One full day (allow half a day to tour the archaeological site)

Access: Easy by car

4. Ali Pacha's Castle

   
At the mouth of the Vivari Canal stands Ali Pacha's Castle. Due to its position, the castle once served as a control post. To visit it? You will need to board a boat (or kayak). Once there, you'll enjoy the beauty of the surroundings and an exceptional panoramic view of the national park!