Durres, on Albania’s Adriatic coast, hosts a rich collection of Roman-era mosaics. The most famous, ‘The Beauty of Durres’, is displayed in the National Museum in Tirana. But most mosaics remain unseen by the public.

Archaeologist Brikena Shkodra says Durres has the largest number of mosaics discovered in any Albanian city, with at least 15 found so far. Many more remain buried underground. The mosaics show the town’s cultural and artistic development from antiquity to the Byzantine era.

Earthquakes and repeated rebuilding have buried many mosaics. Local authorities have made little effort to preserve them. Some private initiatives have reproduced mosaics for schools and public spaces. Yet, state and municipal support remains minimal.

Experts warn the mosaics are at risk of further damage. Shkodra emphasizes that investing in preservation could boost tourism, educate the public, and safeguard Albania’s cultural heritage for future generations.

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