Selca e Poshtme Illyrian Royal Tombs, Pogradec Travel Guide

Updated 2026-11-02 · 4 min read · Prices and schedules change — check locally.

How to get to Selca e Poshtme

Travel to the town of Pogradec in eastern Albania.
Drive north-west towards the village of Selca e Poshtme, approximately 40 kilometres away.
Follow the Mokra region roads; a high-clearance vehicle is recommended due to uneven terrain.
Park near the site’s sign where conditions allow, then follow the hillside paths to the tombs; waymarking can be unclear.

What is the historical significance of the tombs?

These tombs are important examples of Illyrian funerary architecture, believed to have served kings and nobility.

The site was a significant Illyrian urban centre, sometimes identified with the ancient city of Pelion. The five tombs exhibit diverse styles, including ionic facades and vaulted chambers, showing the influence of Hellenistic culture on the Illyrian Enchele tribe.

Archaeologists believe the site was a major residence for Illyrian rulers, possibly including King Cleitus. The carvings into the cliffs demonstrate sophisticated engineering of the 4th–3rd centuries BCE.

What can you see at the site today?

Visitors can view five distinct monumental tombs, with Tomb 4 and Tomb 2 being the most architecturally impressive.

Tomb Type	Key Features
Tomb 1	Facade with Ionic-style pilaster capitals and a vaulted burial chamber.
Tomb 2	Theater-like structure with two stepped rows of seats.
Tomb 3	Multi-level complex with sophisticated carvings.
Tomb 4	Remains of a temple-like facade, with fallen architectural elements.

How do you reach the tombs from Pogradec?

The tombs are located about 40 kilometres from Pogradec, accessible via the rural roads of the Mokra area.

The drive takes roughly 1 to 1.5 hours. While the road has seen improvements, the final stretches can be narrow and rocky. It is best to hire a local driver or use a sturdy SUV.

Signage is present but can be sparse. It is advisable to download offline maps or ask locals in Selca e Poshtme village for directions to the 'Varret Ilire'.

Is there an entrance fee or specific opening hours?

The site is an open-air archaeological area with no official gated entry or fixed ticket price.

As the site is not fully commercialised, there are no facilities like toilets or cafes directly at the tombs. Visitors should bring their own water and wear sturdy walking shoes.

Plan to visit during daylight hours for safety on the rocky paths, and check locally for any access restrictions during restoration work. Local guides from Pogradec may offer tours for a fee.

When is the best time to visit?

The best time to visit is from late spring to early autumn to avoid muddy or icy road conditions.

The Mokra region experiences heavy rain and snow in winter, which can make the mountain roads to Selca e Poshtme difficult or impassable for standard cars.

Visiting in May, June, or September offers the best balance of manageable temperatures and clear access to the hillside carvings.

Sources

Pogradec town guide →