The Cave of Haxhi Ali (Albanian: Shpella e Haxhi Aliut or Shpella e Ilirëve) is a karst cave formed in limestone cliffs in southwestern Albania, located in the Karaburun Peninsula near the Cape of Gjuhëz in Vlorë County. The cave was named after Haxhi Aliu, a prominent Albanian warrior and sailor from Ulcinj who fled with his son in this cave. Several archaeological objects has been found, that prove that this cave was used by traders and passers during the ancient times. The cave has a length of 30 m (98 ft) with a width which can vary between of 10–12 m (33–39 ft) and a height of 18 m (59 ft).[2][1]

Cave of Haxhi Ali
Cave of Haxhi Ali
Map
LocationVlorë County
Nearest cityVlorë
Coordinates40°26′0.12″N 19°18′0″E / 40.4333667°N 19.30000°E / 40.4333667; 19.30000
DesignationNatural Monument[1]
Governing bodyMinistry of Environment

Situated on the Albanian Riviera it is regarded as one of the country's most beautiful caves and attracts numerous visitors. The only way to arrive at Haxhi Ali Cave is by boat, as it is nestled along the rugged coastline of the Karaburun Peninsula. Visitors can embark on boat tours from Vlora, enjoying scenic views of the coastline before reaching this hidden gem. The cave's pristine beauty and unique geological formations make it a must-visit destination for those exploring the natural wonders of Albania." Notably it has been recognised as a natural monument of national importance by the Ministry of Environment and is part of the Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park.[3][4]

See also

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References

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  1. ^ a b "Shpella e Haxhi Alisë". akzm.gov.al (in Albanian). p. 1. Archived from the original on 2018-06-26. Retrieved 2017-10-26.
  2. ^ "Turet e Orikumit" (PDF). al.undp.org. p. 1. Archived from the original (PDF) on 2017-10-27. Retrieved 2017-10-26.
  3. ^ "Llogora-Rreza e Kanalit-Dukat -Orikum-TragjasRadhime-Karaburun Complex Site" (PDF). vinc.s.free.fr. p. 137.
  4. ^ "Management Plan for National Marine Park Karaburun-Sazan" (PDF). mcpa.iwlearn.org. p. 10.