Vlora is a coastal city on the Adriatic coast of Albania. It is reputed to be one of the most beautiful places in the Mediterranean region and in recent years it has become an important tourist center. With nice sandy beaches, summer is an ideal time to visit Vlora. You can swim in the sea from May and the water is still warm enough in October to enjoy a nice walk on the beach.

Besides the beach, Vlora has a rich cultural history dating back to the 6th century BC. C. A stone wall was built around the city in the 4th century BC. C. and was the main port of Illyria (the old name of Albania). During that time, Vlora was well known for its olives, wine and salt production.

In the medieval period, Vlora was under the administration of several different rulers. The Normans conquered the region in 1081, and then went on to rule Venice before it was handed over to the Germans. In 1272 it became part of the kingdom of Arbria and in the 15th century an Albanian feudal family ruled the city. Finally, in 1417 Vlora was the first port to fall to the Ottoman Turks. The Ottomans built mosques and fortresses and other monuments during their 500-year rule.

In the modern era, Albania gained its independence in 1912 and Vlora was the place where that independence was declared. Fittingly, there is a museum dedicated to the independence movement in Vlora and it should be at the top of your list if you are visiting Vlora for cultural purposes.

Another important place to visit in Vlora is the Muradie Mosque. It was built in 1542 and was designed by the architect Sinani. It was commissioned by Sultan Sulejman, who was in Vlora and preparing a naval attack on Italy.

Kanina Castle is another must-see for any cultural tour of Vlora. This castle dominated the entire medieval period of Vlora and is located in the current village of Kanina, near the city. If you like old castles, you can visit the castles of Porto-Palermo, Himara and Ilias, which are located in the surroundings of Vlora.

There are a number of religious places that are points of interest for tourists and these include the St. Mary’s Monastery in the town of Zvernec, the Church of St. Mitri in the town of Qepara, the Mesodhia Church in the town of Vuno and the Church of San Sotiri in the village of Vuno.

In addition to the aforementioned Museum of Independence, the city also has an Ethnography Museum and a History Museum.

In case you are wondering about accommodations and other facilities, the natural beauty and cultural heritage of this city have made it a magnet for tourists; therefore, the tourist infrastructure has developed rapidly in recent years. So you should be able to find what you need to make your stay comfortable.

Whether you want to enjoy the pleasures of a sandy beach on the sunny Adriatic Sea or take a first-hand look at cultural artifacts dating back to the 6th century BC. C., Vlora is the place for you.