King Zog's Villa in Durres

The villa of Ahmet Zogu, Albania’s first and last king, sits atop a hill with stunning views of the sea, the port, and much of the city. Built for a king, it barely served its patron.

In the 1930s Zogu fled to France and Albania became an Italian protectorate; the villa was converted into a government residence. After World War II and the communist takeover it became one of Hoxha’s personal retreats. When communism ended the villa stood abandoned and neglected for years, which meant it was thoroughly looted.

The highlights once included a crystal chandelier in the staircase hall, an ornate ballroom interior, and fine furniture — none of it survived. The buildings are slowly crumbling and being swallowed by ivy and creeping vines, though decorative finishing elements remain, and they are quite lavish. Telecommunications equipment now occupies the roof.

After 2022 motion sensors and cameras appeared at the entrance. A caretaker guards the site and lets visitors in for 2 euros, heading home after 18:00 (earlier in winter, roughly at sunset). You can also get in by passing to the right of the gate along the barbed-wire fence and pulling yourself up on a tree with a thick branch extending over the wall. Since early 2025 the caretaker charges 3 euros and even hands out tickets. Cultural events — acid raves, live music concerts — occasionally take place on the villa grounds.