Hamam in Durres

The Hammam of Durrës is one of the ten surviving hammams in Albania, reflecting the heritage of the five-century-long Ottoman rule in the country. Constructed in the XVIII century, the hammam is situated in the southeast corner of the medieval city, near the modern Epidamn Boulevard. Positioned just a few hundred meters from its ancient predecessor, the Roman baths, it served its original function until the late XIX century. In the early 2000s, it underwent modifications to house a café, which operated for several years. Subsequently closed, the Hammam faced severe damage during the 2019 earthquake, making it a priority for intervention under the EU4Culture programme. The ongoing restoration aims to revive this historical site. Once restored, it will offer visitors the opportunity to explore and comprehend the importance and functionality of these unique structures.

Interventions proposed and intended to be implemented for site rehabilitation, regarding EU4Culture Project include:

DESIGN

Conservation scope
– Conservation of surfaces and the restoration of the original scope of space
– Restoration of missing elements of bath’s utility functions
– Partial structural stabilization and drainage
– Guardrails around authentic elements which would be the focus of a display
– Disaster risk management
– Maintenance program and plans

Infrastructure
– Electrical installations for lighting
– Surveillance and safety system
– Ticketing and information connected to venetian tower
– Urban landscaping around the hamam to provide the space to rest and read information
– Health and safety

CONSULTATIONS AND DESIGN

Revitalization scope

– Classical interpretation via panels, brass rubbing panels and similar means
– Interactive interpretation of the history of hamam connecting it with similar and baths nearby
– Digital interpretation of the history of the baths in Albania (across different time periods)
– Identifying, engaging and supporting local producers and artisans for souvenirs and traditional produce shop (for venetian tower)
– Branding and visual identity

MANAGEMENT AND BUSINESS PLAN

Management

– Designing structure for managing visitors’ and functions for local engagement
– Introducing ticketing system and analysing additional streams of revenue
– Packaging and promoting the site alongside attractions of the area

GRANTS

Local socio economic component (grant schemes and practical training)

– Creating a base of handy products related to history of hamam and water usage – encouraging local herb producers and designers to develop products to be sold at venetian tower and at the hamam