While the city of Vlora is mostly known for its beautiful beaches, which mark the entrance to the glorious southern coast of Albania, these comprise only some of Vlora’s many offerings. Vlora is also known as the center of iso-poliphony, one of the greatest and most valuable cultural heritages of the country, as well as the place where the flag of Albania’s independence was first raised, a monumental moment of Albania’s history. In addition, the country’s largest coastal city offers a rich variety of religious and archaeological monuments which deserve as much attention as the other sights of the beautiful city.

Muradije Mosque

This mosque is a monument of enormous significance, protected not only for its history but for its architecture which is over 5 centuries old. It is located close to the “Square of the Flag” (Sheshi i Flamurit), in the heart of the city. The mosque was built in 1542 by Sinan, the most famous Ottoman architect of the period, and its outer structure possesses a highly harmonious geometric appearance. Despite the severity of climactic changes over the centuries, the monument has managed to preserves its original and architectonic values, including its beautiful dome and minaret.

The Sacred Place of Kuzum Baba

The second stop is Kuzbaba, the highest point of the city of Vlorë, a spectacular terrace overlooking the center of the southern city. The point is a double attraction as its center includes the Bektashi Tomb of Kuzbaba, a spiritual sanctuary for all believers. The monument’s balcony rises up to 70 meters above the national road and, should you wish to reach Kuzbaba, you have to climb 240 steps of a winding stone stairway. The terrace has a length of 300 meters which makes it a massive attraction especially mid-year when Vlora is visited by countless tourists. It is the ideal place to enjoy a morning coffee or the cool seaside evenings, enhanced by the rich hues of Vlora’s unforgettable sunsets.

Catholic Church of Vlora

The Catholic Church of Vlora, also known as the Saint Luigi Gonzaga Church, is one of the monuments protected by the Albanian state. The monument, built in the 19^th century, is a structure heavily influenced by Italian architecture. Currently, the church facade is being restored to reclaim its original pattern. The church is just a few minutes’ drive from the Ismail Qemali Boulevard. In addition to the services provided for its Catholic believers, the church is also known as one of the places in which Father Shtjefën Gjeçovi, one of the most prominent patriotic clergy members of the beginning of the last century, served. During the Communist regime, the Catholic Church of Vlora was temporarily (and, some would say, ironically) transformed into a puppet theatre. However, with the reestablishment of political pluralism in Albania, it was returned to the Catholic community of Vlora.

Monastery of Saint Mary in Zvërnec

Zvërnec is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful sights in Vlora, not only for its spectacular nature but for its rich religious history and its wonderful underwater world. A true fairy-tale island! Covered in dense vegetation lies the Monastery of Saint Mary, built as early as the 13^th century. The monastery and the island are located in front of the village of Zvërnec. The monument is encircled by walls and two-story traditional houses. In order to visit the monastery, you have to walk on a beautiful long wooden bridge constructed on the Narta Lagoon, which connects the shore with the monastery. This place of worship is well-preserved and can be easily accessed from the road leading to the village of Zvërnec.

Old Churches in the Coastal Villages

Vlorë is only the entrance to the stunning Albanian Riviera, which holds within its spectacular landscapes of hills and fields covered in vegetation, spiritual treasures that soothe and nourish the soul. A tour of these spiritual monuments along the Riviera is a must! Firstly, in the village of Dhërmi, you will find a cultural monument of Albania, named Panagia Monastery Church (Kisha e Manastirit të Panaiasë), that sits on the highest hill overlooking the entire village and its coastline. Located in the villages of Qeparo and Vuno are the churches of St. Demetrius and that of St. Spyridon. You will find these as you take a pleasant walk around the colorful small streets of these beautiful traditional villages. Lastly, situated in Himarë, the largest village of the southern Riviera, are the Church of St. Mary of Athal and the All Saints Church. All worth visiting!