Stage 1 of the 2025 Giro d’Italia marks a new milestone in the history of the Grand Tour, making its start on the roads of Albania.
The Venetian Tower
The Venetian Tower is the most evocative viewpoint from which to enjoy the start of the race. Built in the 15th century to strengthen the defenses of the Byzantine castle, the tower stands 10 meters tall, offering a sweeping view over the Ionian Sea and the city of Durrës—an ancient place with much to explore. From its charming historic center, where narrow lanes and stone houses invite discovery, to a well-kept, lively seafront that pulses with life day and night, Durrës is a gem.
Strategically located on the western shore of the Ionian Sea, Durrës has a long and storied past. Founded by the Greeks in the 7th century BCE, and later shaped by Romans and Ottomans, the city’s rich heritage comes to life through its architectural and archaeological treasures. One of its defining landmarks is the Roman Amphitheatre, built in the 2nd century CE. Among the largest in the Balkans, it once hosted up to 20,000 spectators. Just nearby, the Archaeological Museum holds relics from Greek, Roman, and Byzantine times, offering deep insights into the city’s millennia-old legacy.
Also worth visiting are the Fatih Mosque, named after Sultan Mehmed II the Conqueror and erected in 1502 during Ottoman rule, and the Byzantine Forum, whose series of Corinthian columns once lined the Macellum, the post-Roman marketplace. Dating from between 600 and 800 CE, the area is still paved with carved marble stones.
Skanderbeg Square in Tiranë
Leaving the coast behind, the Giro heads inland, pushing south across flat countryside before hitting the first real climb of the race, the ascent to Gracen, where the first King of the Mountain awaits. But just before tackling this uphill test, a quick detour leads to the city of Elbasan, home to a fortress built by the Ottomans in the 15th century atop the remains of an earlier Roman stronghold.
The route then flattens out briefly before reaching Tirana for the first time. There, the riders enter the final circuit, which includes two ascents of Surel, a small hilltop village and a favorite getaway once springtime temperatures begin to rise.
A 10-kilometer descent brings the peloton back into Tirana for the stage finish. The Albanian capital – a city in the spotlight, brimming with energy and anticipation – will also be the main location on the following day.
Ron is the chief cook and bottlewasher at Bike World News, doing everything from website design to bike reviews.
Websites:
Bike World News
Ron’s Bike Garage
Current Bike Quiver:
Bird Bikes Zero 29 29″ hardtail mountain bike
Commencal Absolut 26″ Dirt Jump/Pump Track bike
Commencal Tempo 29″ full suspension mountain bike
Felt ZA 700c race bike
Kona Kilauea vintage 26″ mountain bike
Niner RLT9 700c road/gravel bike
Specialized Stumpjumper vintage 26″ mountain bike
Day Job: Digital Marketing
Night Job: Digital Marketing, eCommerce Consultant, Web Consultant, Bike Shop Operator, Husband, Dad, Tenor
Discover more from Bike World News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.