The UNESCO Sites in Albania have resulted from the recognition of 4 cultural and natural landmarks as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Albania and 4 locations on the Albania UNESCO tentative list. These touristic sites in Albania are acknowledged for their unique and valuable cultural, natural, artistic, and historic significance, and are preserved for future generations to enjoy.
In addition to these 4 sites in the Albania UNESCO list, there are many other places to travel to Albania that are being considered for UNESCO recognition. These sites, listed on the tentative list, showcase the rich cultural heritage of the country and are waiting for approval to join the prestigious and famous World Heritage Sites list.
To help visitors discover these remarkable Albania tourist attractions, we have put together an interactive map of the UNESCO sites in Albania.
Albania UNESCO Map
Click markers to show information and photo.
World Heritage Sites in Albania
UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Albania
There are 4 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Albania. All of these three sites are listed under the Cultural category.
- Butrint
- Historic Centres of Berat and Gjirokastra
- Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe
- Natural and Cultural Heritage of the Ohrid region
UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Albania are protected locations for their cultural and natural importance.
Butrint
Butrint is an ancient city in southern Albania, near the border with Greece. The Greeks settled it in the 8th century BC and later became a Roman colony. The site features a variety of well-preserved ruins from different historical periods, including a Greek theater, Roman baths, a Byzantine basilica, and a Venetian castle. The area is also home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare species of birds and plants. Due to its historical and ecological significance, Butrint was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992.
Historic Centres of Berat and Gjirokastra
The Historic Centres of Berat and Gjirokastra are two UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Albania. Berat is known as the “City of a Thousand Windows” due to the numerous Ottoman-era houses with large windows overlooking the city. Gjirokastra, on the other hand, is a well-preserved Ottoman-era town known for its unique architecture and cobblestone streets. Both cities have numerous historic landmarks, including Byzantine churches, Ottoman mosques, and traditional bazaars. These sites offer a glimpse into Albania’s rich cultural and architectural history and are must-visit destinations for anyone interested in exploring the country’s past.
Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe
The Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with 78 separate forested areas across 12 European countries. These forests are home to an extraordinary diversity of plant and animal life, many of which are endemic to these regions. They also contain some of the world’s largest and oldest beech trees, some over 500 years old. This site is essential for its ecological value and cultural significance, as these forests have been integral to human life and folklore for centuries.
Natural and Cultural Heritage of the Ohrid Region
The Natural and Cultural Heritage of the Ohrid region is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the border area between Albania and North Macedonia. The site encompasses Lake Ohrid, one of Europe’s oldest and deepest lakes, and the surrounding mountains and forests. The region is also home to numerous cultural and historical sites, including the medieval town of Ohrid, renowned for its well-preserved Byzantine churches and Ottoman-era architecture. The area has been inhabited since prehistoric times and has played an essential role in developing the region’s culture and history. Today, the Natural and Cultural Heritage of the Ohrid region is recognized as a unique and valuable site that embodies the rich cultural and natural heritage of the Balkans.
Albania UNESCO tentative list
- Les tombes de la Basse Selca
- L’amphithéâtre de Durres
- The Ancient City of Apollonia
- The Castle of Bashtova
Tours in Albania
Our choices of tours in Albania are divided into thematic features such as Butrint, Berat and Gjirokastra, and Ohrid Experience.