The Venetian Tower is one of the most unique and beautiful historical monuments in Durrës. It is an important element of the city's Byzantine fortress, which has been declared a first-class cultural monument. Once, this tower was considered one of the most powerful fortifications along the Adriatic coast.
The fortification we see today dates back to the first constructions of the Byzantine emperor Anastasius I (491–518), originating from the ancient city of Dyrrhachium. Around the 15th century, the Venetian Tower was built on the foundations of the Byzantine tower, with the aim of protecting the city from naval attacks. Designed specifically to house artillery, it also served as an observation post for controlling the surrounding area.
During 2022–2023, the Venetian Tower underwent a restoration process and was transformed into the first Albanian Heritage Interpretation Center. Today, visitors can discover historical events through advanced digital and multimedia technologies, such as VR headsets, audio guides, dome projections and other interactive activities that combine entertainment with an immersive experience on the ancient history of Durrës.
