While Bovilla is widely recognized as a popular tourist destination for its stunning reservoir and panoramic views, few are aware of the remarkable archaeological potential it holds. Recent reports shed light on the possibility that this area may have once hosted one of the largest early medieval settlements in the region surrounding Tirana.
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“Bovilla is known as a tourist spot, but remains largely unknown for its significant archaeological potential,” reported Tv Klan journalist Anisa Krraba. Excavations in the area are revealing evidence of a previously undocumented settlement dating back to the early Middle Ages.
“Very few people know that here in Bovilla, there is data pointing to a settlement from the early medieval period, possibly from the time of Arbër,” explained archaeologist Suela Xhyheri, referring to the early Albanian principality that existed during the 11th to 13th centuries.
Archaeological surveys have identified between 12 to 14 terraces that make up this ancient site. “Tirana is not widely known for its archaeology, especially in its outskirts,” Xhyheri noted, emphasizing the uniqueness of Bovilla’s emerging historical profile.
One of the most promising excavation sites lies near the ruins believed to be those of the Monastery of Saint Mary, a once-important religious center in the Tirana area. “These are traces of a monastery dedicated to Saint Mary. The ruins are located on this terrace,” said Xhyheri, pointing to the area behind her during the field report.
Initial findings suggest that the settlement was modest, with simple constructions such as huts, and an economy that was equally humble. “We’re talking about huts. We’ve managed to identify fragments of pottery here — like this piece of a vessel that dates from the 7th to the 11th century,” Xhyheri explained, holding up a ceramic shard.
In total, three archaeological surveys are planned at Bovilla. “The third survey will take place beside the panoramic balcony, where a wall structure descending toward the dam is clearly visible. This is one of the most intriguing constructions we’ve identified so far,” Xhyheri added.
The full archaeological research project is set to begin this fall and will span over a five-year period. It will also include the documentation and mapping of two hermit caves nearby, which contribute to Bovilla’s spiritual and historical richness.
As excavation efforts begin, Bovilla may soon shift from being just a scenic retreat to a vital key in understanding Albania’s medieval past — and potentially rewrite the archaeological map of Tirana’s outskirts.