Durrës, Albania’s ancient coastal city, holds a remarkable place in the country's history and culture. Founded by two Illyrian kings, Dyrah and Epidamn, the city emerged as a thriving settlement known as Epidamnus-Dyrrhachium around the 7th century BC. With its strategic location along the Adriatic Sea, Durrës became a pivotal trade hub and a gateway between the East and West.
During the reign of Emperor Anastasius I (491-519) — himself an Illyrian native — and later Emperor Justinian I (527-565), the city underwent significant transformations. It adopted the architectural and cultural features of a Byzantine-Christian metropolis, fortifying its walls and developing a sophisticated urban structure. This earned Durrës the nickname ‘The Second Constantinople,’ a testament to its grandeur and importance.
By the 11th to 15th centuries, Durrës was part of the State of Arbanon, reaching its zenith during the reign of Gjergj Kastrioti (Skanderbeg). Ottoman chroniclers of the 16th century recorded the city’s fall to Turkish forces on August 13, 1501, marking the end of an era. However, by the 17th century, Durrës began to recover, evolving into a bustling center of transit trade for central Albania.
Durrës continued to play a vital role in Albania’s modern history. On November 26, 1912, Albanian patriots led by Ismail Qemali raised the flag of independence in the city, marking the end of Ottoman rule. Yet, Durrës faced further invasions, including Serbian occupation in 1913, Austro-Hungarian control in 1916, and Italian occupation in 1918.
During King Zog’s reign (1924-1939), the city embraced a period of modernization, embodying a blend of noble tradition and economic progress. However, this progress was interrupted on April 7, 1939, when Italian and later German forces occupied Durrës. The city was eventually liberated on November 14, 1944.
Under the socialist regime (1945-1990), Durrës saw significant industrial development, mass education efforts, and cultural institution-building. The post-1990 transition to democracy brought economic reforms, reshaping the city’s economy and urban landscape.
Culture and Ethnography
Durrës remains a living museum of Albania’s rich past. Its landmarks — the grand Amphitheater, Byzantine Walls, Venetian Tower, and the Castle’s surrounding walls — reflect layers of historical influence. Religious sites like the Basilica of Arapaj and the Castle of Rodon stand as symbols of spiritual and architectural heritage.
The city also honors its cultural legacy with festivals and artistic events, such as the International Film Festival, the Jazz Music Festival, and the Poeteka Poetry Contest. The ethnographic heritage of Durrës mirrors the traditions of Central Albania. Women traditionally wore embroidered ‘dimi’ trousers and colorful vests, accessorized with headpieces adorned with imitation coins, while men wore woolen ‘brekushe,’ black ‘xhoka’ jackets, or red vests, topped with a flat ‘qeleshe’ cap.
From ancient Illyrian origins to its Byzantine glory and modern-day revival, Durrës stands as a resilient, vibrant city — a testament to Albania’s enduring spirit and rich cultural tapestry.