TIRANA, Feb. 2 – The Albanian government has approved 21.6 million lek (Euro 152,000) in compensation for the several families living next to the ancient Roman amphitheatre in Durres for having their houses demolished as part of a rehabilitation project in the country’s biggest amphitheatre.
Back in 2012, the Roman amphitheatre of Durres, one of the biggest in the Balkan region, was shortlisted by leading European heritage organization Europa Nostra for the ‘The 7 Most Endangered’ programme.
“The discovery of this magnificent early 2nd century amphitheatre, which remained unknown to the world until the 1960’s, put the ancient city of Durrës back on the map of historic sites in Europe. It also poses a major challenge to ensure a successful integration of the site into the urban fabric and local community of Durrës,” says Europa Nostra.
Albanian culture officials have been lobbying to secure funds that would revitalize the Roman amphitheatre of Durres, the biggest in the Balkans, turning it into a site where different cultural events could be attended by up to 1,500 people. According to a decision by the National Council of Archaeology, the ancient Roman amphitheatre in Durres will be restored and turned into museum centers. Under the project, the Durres amphitheatre which dates back to the 2nd century, will have its museum part restored and visitor areas extended. It will also be made available to the public as a venue for events. The project foresees further excavations and demolition of illegal buildings around the amphitheatre.
