A Glimpse into Prehistory
The prehistoric period—before the emergence of written records—extends from over 100,000 years ago to the early Iron Age (the last millennium BC). It is divided into the Paleolithic, Mesolithic, Neolithic, Eneolithic (Chalcolithic, or Copper Age), and Bronze Age.
Evidence of early human presence in Albania has been found in caves such as Xare (Saranda), Gajtan (Shkodra), and Kryegjata (near Apollonia). These caves served as natural shelters for prehistoric communities.
During the Neolithic period (7000–4000 years ago), settlement expanded widely, with communities established in fertile river terraces and lakeside regions, such as Maliq, Cakran, Vashtemi, Podgorie, and Kamnik in Kolonja. Many of these settlements were stilt houses—known as pile dwellings (palafitte)—constructed over lakes and wetlands, like those discovered in Maliq, Sovjan, Lin, and Drilon near Pogradec.
The Eneolithic and Bronze Ages saw the development of surface dwellings, built from wood, reeds, and clay, and eventually the rise of fortified settlements, such as those at Gajtan (Shkodra), Margëlliç (Fier), and Cetush (Dibra). These sites, along with collective burial mounds (tumuli), provide crucial insights into the origins of the Illyrians and the continuity between Illyrian and Albanian populations.
Tourism Potential
While most of the prehistoric sites in Albania have been studied and their artifacts displayed in museums, the sites themselves are often neglected. In many cases, they lack maintenance, protection, or even basic signage. Yet, with modest investment, they could become attractive destinations for both domestic and foreign tourists.
Caves
Sites like the Tren Cave near Prespa Lake are of exceptional cultural and natural value. Dating back around 6000 years, the cave preserves rare prehistoric rock paintings. Despite its significance, the site suffers from neglect—lack of lighting, insufficient protection, and damage from vandalism. Proper conservation could transform Tren Cave into a major attraction, comparable to similar sites elsewhere in Europe.
Pile Dwellings
Reconstructing prehistoric stilt houses in places like Maliq and Lin could create open-air museums that bring history to life. Neighboring countries, such as Greece (Kastoria) and North Macedonia (Galicica), have already developed similar sites into tourist attractions. Albania could follow this model, especially since many of its pile dwelling sites are located along main tourist routes, such as Korçë–Pogradec.
Tumuli (Burial Mounds)
Collective burial mounds are widespread across Albania, from Kukës and Mat in the north to Dropull and Saranda in the south. Although their artifacts are displayed in museums, the tumuli themselves are often unmarked and unprotected in the field. At the very least, bilingual informational plaques could help visitors appreciate their historical importance, as is common in other European countries.
Fortified Settlements
Fortified hilltop settlements from the late Bronze Age and early Iron Age, such as Gajtan, also represent a fascinating aspect of Albania’s prehistoric past. Proper conservation and promotion could make them part of regional tourist itineraries.
Conclusion
Prehistoric settlements are an integral part of Albania’s cultural heritage. They complement the country’s rich array of ancient ruins, medieval castles, and natural landscapes. Integrating them into tourism strategies—through maintenance, reconstruction, signage, and educational initiatives—would not only preserve them for future generations but also enhance Albania’s attractiveness as a destination.
As a popular saying goes, “It is better to know than to have.” By promoting knowledge of its prehistoric past, Albania can gain both cultural prestige and economic benefit.
By Dr. Rafail LIPI