Overview:

Bay of Porto Palermo, Himarë is a bay located in southern Albania, located on the Albanian Riviera. It is a shallow, triangular bay, located between the mountains of the Ceraunian mountains and the Mediterranean Sea. The bay is the site of the ancient fortified city of Himarë and the Palermo Islands, a refuge from invaders in the past. The area is a popular destination for tourists, offering spectacular views, a variety of watersports, beaches, and local cuisine. The bay also offers opportunities for fishing, sailing, and diving. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Albania
Prominent Features:

• Located on the Ionian Sea, the Bay of Porto Palermo is an amazing sight to behold. • The shallow waters of the bay offer great view for sailing and fishing activities. • There is a 3-storey castle on a rocky peninsula in the bay which was built by the Ali-Pasha of Ioannina back in the 16th century. • The Naval Base of Sarandë is located in the bay. • The surrounding area of the bay is also dotted with some ancient ruins that add to its beauty. • Nearby, the small village of Himarë is also nestled on the bay and offers an insight to the unique Albanian culture and traditions. • The peaceful and tranquil atmosphere of the bay makes it an ideal place to relax and take in the breathtaking views. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Albania.

History:

The Bay of Porto Palermo, located in the coastal Himarë municipality in southern Albania, is a densely-protected bay that dates back centuries. During the medieval period, it was an important port for trade with the Byzantine Empire and the Republic of Venice. Throughout its history, the bay has been rich in marine wildlife and picked up the name “Port Palermo” due to its Mediterranean beauty. During the Ottoman era, Porto Palermo was home to a simple fishing village, although it has grown significantly since. The mid-19th century saw the construction of the castle of Porto Palermo, built by Ali Pasha of Yanina. During this period, the bay was also known for traditional boat-building, with many traditional boats still in use today. In the early 20th century, the bay became an important military base during WWII due to its strategic location. Starting in 1945, the Bay was used by the Soviet Navy, though it was ultimately a temporary base, as Albania broke its ties with the USSR in 1961. Today, the Bay of Porto Palermo is a popular tourist destination, with much of its ecosystem preserved. Visitors come to admire its stunning landscape as well as explore the historical sites, including the castle, the naval shipyard, and the ancient church. There are also many activities on offer such as kayaking, swimming, and birdwatching. Bay of Porto Palermo is a stunning part of Albania’s beautiful coastline. With its rich history and diverse ecology, it’s a great spot for both locals and tourists alike. Visit one of the famous monuments of Albania with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. Porto Palermo Bay is located in the Albanian region of Himarë, on the east coast of the Ionian Sea. 2. The bay itself is quite shallow, which makes it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and other recreational activities. 3. Its crystal clear waters contain several endemic species of fish. 4. The bay is named after the Palermo family, a family of Italian origin who settled in Albania in the late 19th century. 5. The castle of Porto Palermo, which was built in the early 1800s, is particularly worth admiring due to its unique features and architecture. 6. This picturesque bay is frequently visited by fishermen since it is filled up with schools of small fish. 7. The bay is also a popular spot for tourists due to its stunning views, secluded beaches and its historical significance. 8. The bay also boasts two popular dive sites with depths ranging from 7-40 meters. 9. Porto Palermo is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the area, some of which are accessible only by boat. 10. Nearby, there is the small island of Sazan, where visitors can enjoy spectacular views of the Bay and the Ionian Sea. One of the historical monuments of Albania, it tells the story of a bygone era