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Photo: ShkelzenRexha, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
A large archaeological site of 30 hectares in Hekal village. The most important city of southern Illyria, it was founded by Bylis Illyrian tribe and became center of the region presiding over a number of small fortified areas. It later became a Roman colony and then a Byzantine site until destruction by Slavic invasions in the 6th century. Allow at least two hours for the visit and be mindful of the sun during summer. In clear weather, the surrounding area all the way to Karaburun Peninsula can be seen from Bylis.
Byllis or Bullis or Boullis (Βουλλίς) was an ancient city and the chief settlement of the Illyrian tribe of the Bylliones, traditionally located in southern Illyria. In Hellenistic times the city was either part of Illyria or Epirus. In Roman times it was included within Epirus Nova, in the province of Macedonia. The remains of Byllis are situated north-east of Vlorë, 25 kilometers from the sea in Hekal, Fier County, Albania. Byllis was designated as an archaeological park on 7 April 2003 by the government of Albania.
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The camp was active from April 1949 to March 1954 and housed family members of those on the wrong side of the communist regime. Some 300 children died at the camp. Built by Fascist Italian army during WWII, Albanian Communist military went on to use it and now sits in disrepair. While not open to visitors, a view of the area can be head from the Castle's northern viewpoint, and you may be able to get in if you get the attention of the shepherds now using it.
Kështjella e Tepelenës
fortification played in important role in the rule of Ali Pasha. While only the outside walls remain, the inner part is filled with family homes now. It provides several vantage points to the Vjosa River valley below.
orthodox church
imposing statue of Ali Pashë Tepelena, the town's most popular son