Albania’s cultural treasures are attracting more visitors than ever before, with over 1.2 million people exploring the country’s historical sites between January and October 2024 – a 34% increase compared to last year.
Blendi Gonxhja, Albania’s Minister of Economy, Culture, and Innovation, shared these encouraging figures, emphasizing that 61% of the visitors were foreign tourists. This growing influx highlights Albania’s rising reputation as a must-see destination for travelers.
The most popular spots for visitors include:
- Gjirokastër Castle – 248,890 visitors
- Butrint Archaeological Park – 195,216 visitors
- “Gjergj Kastrioti” Museum in Krujë – 160,402 visitors
- Shkodër Archaeological Park – 146,541 visitors
- Apollonia Archaeological Park – 117,325 visitors
National museums attracted 422,020 visitors, while archaeological parks welcomed 478,769. These visits generated a total of 443,906,770 leks in revenue, which is 40% higher than last year.
“The spirit of Albania is alive in these monuments, where history meets the present and is passed on to visitors and future generations,” said Minister Gonxhja, reflecting on the cultural significance of the sites.