How to get by car to Old Tragjas, the Abandoned Village Destroyed by Bombs
Tragjasi i Vjetër is an old village in ruins located in Vlorë County, Albania. The town was bombed in 1943 because of partisan sympathies. Please beware that this village is structurally dangerous and you should proceed with caution.
What’s the history of Old Tragjas?
The ruined village of Tragjas played a significant role in Albanian history as part of the battlefield of the Battle of Gjorm, where Albanian resistance units defeated and routed the troops of the Kingdom of Italy. The ancient village was bombed in 1943 due to its partisan sympathies and has remained abandoned ever since.
The ruins of Tragjas are situated on several hills overlooking the Dukat Plain, approximately 25 km from the city of Vlora. In October 1980, the site was officially recognized as a cultural monument for its architectural significance. The traditional design style of the village serves as a lasting representation of the region’s cultural heritage. Historians believe that Gjergj Arianiti, the father of Donika Kastriot, founded the settlement during the transition from the 14th to the 15th century.
The mountain village is advantageously located for both aesthetic and practical reasons. Around three hundred houses once stood here, notable for their complex design, functionality, harmonious integration into the landscape, dynamic proportions, and impressive size. These structures symbolize both the nation’s architectural style and the skill of the common people who built them.
Tragjas suffered three devastating fires and was entirely destroyed during World War II. Today, it functions as an open-air museum, standing as a silent witness to the historical events that shaped the area. Even after six decades of abandonment, the village still retains distinctive features, including a prominent main street running the length of the settlement and the striking remains of former homes visible as ruins.
The village is undoubtedly a fascinating attraction for those interested in history and architecture. The discovery of artifacts in the surrounding area indicates a long-standing settlement, with roots extending back to ancient times.
Is the road to Old Tragjas unpaved?
Located in the south-western part of the country, the road to the old town is totally unpaved and dangerous, with many narrow parts. It’s usually doable with a higher clearance car. Not suitable for motorhomes. The drive offers spectacular views.
How long is the road to Old Tragjas?
Starting from the new Tragjas village, the road is 5.1 km (3.16 miles) long. Over this distance the elevation gain is 263 meters. The average gradient is 5.15%. On the way to the old village, the road climbs up to the Pass of the Tombs, named for the tombs scattered about there. The pass is a shaped hill with fantastic views of ancient Orikum and the coast.
Pic&video: Top Channel Albania