Torra Veneciane

Torra Veneciane is a round defensive tower in Durrës, built during the fifteenth century over an older Byzantine tower. Its diameter measures sixteen metres, and its height reaches about nine metres. The tower forms part of Durrës Castle, whose first walls rose in the late fifth century under Emperor Anastasius I. Emperor Anastasius I was born in Durrës. Venetian builders reinforced the fortifications after earthquakes and political changes, adding the tower during their rule. Ottoman builders later strengthened the castle walls. Inside, a narrow steep staircase leads upward, while five embrasures once supported observation and defence of the city. An arched brick doorway gives access to three interior rooms. The surviving fortifications display Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman architectural layers within a historic Durrës landmark. About one-third of the ancient walls still stands.