Unearthing History: Underground Cities and Military Heritage in Albania and Europe

Bunkers in Albania are emblematic of the country’s tumultuous past. With approximately 170,000 documented bunkers, each varying in spatial typology, geographical position, and structural features, these structures were built to shelter army troops and thwart foreign invasions (Kristo and Jojic, 2020). For nearly half a century, Albania’s isolation encapsulated its people within a heavily guarded geography, creating a “living prison” where free movement was restricted, even within the country until the fall of the dictatorial regime. Bunkers were strategically placed both in natural landscapes and urban centers, often forming elaborate ensembles of three or more, and extending to tunnels within hills and mountains. This research aims to explore the potential relationships between these bunkers and foreign visitors or tourists in various contexts of their locations. Different typologies of bunkers can be found at the seaside, in valleys, and on mountains, reflecting strategies based on proximity to borders with Montenegro, Kosovo, Greece, Northern Macedonia, Italy and the Adriatic Sea. These strategic areas hold significant interests and values, the positioning of bunkers as unique examples and opportunities for alternative tourism in Albania. The military heritage and bunkers scattered across Eastern Europe stand as silent witnesses to a complex history shaped by conflicts, ideologies, and geopolitical shifts (Stiller, Dhamo, Aliaj and Kristo, 2019). These structures are remnants of an era defined by intense geopolitical tensions and the ever-present threat of military conflict, particularly during the Cold War. They reflect the diverse strategies and responses of different nations to these challenges, offering unique insights into the historical and cultural fabric of the region.