The name Himara originates from the Greek word “Χείμαρρος” which means “stream” and coincides with the geographical location of Himara above the stream that descends from the Acrocheraun mountain range, or as it is called today, (Vetetime Mountains). But there’s another legend too. The name Himara is also believed to come from the name of an animal mentioned in ancient mythology called Chimera which was a lion that on its left shoulder had the head of a dragon and on the other shoulder the head of a giant goat, while on the backbone was a two-headed snake protruding symmetrically with the other three heads in the giant animal body. Either one is the true story of the name origin, we can’t deny the greek influence on it, on the story of the city and on today’s culture and lifestyle too.
What is your holiday style lux, comfort or free style?
Either way, Himara offers all three. Here are our suggestions on what to do in this city.
Things to see in Himare
Himara Castle
It is a monument of 3,500 years of human presence in the Himara region. In the Middle Ages, during the Byzantine times, there was a small but powerful fortress-town in this place of Barbaka. During the 6th century, the castle was repaired by Justinian, who ordered the reconstruction of the castle to be prepared from barbaric Slavic attacks.
In the Middle Ages this fortress played an important role in the successful resistance for five centuries against the Ottoman occupation, supported by Gjergj Arianiti and Gjergj Kastriot’s son, Gjoni.
Borsh Castle
The Borsh Castle is built on the ruins of the ancient city and is located just under 2 miles (3 km) northwest of Borsh. The castle dates back to the 4th-3rd century BC, and since the beginning of time has had a strategic position, being a bridge between the mountains Akrokeraune (Llogara) and the sea. The convenient geographical position with the numerous waters and the surrounding mountains, has favored the habitation of this area since antiquity.
Monastery of Saint Mary
Himara Beaches
Livadhi Beach

Llaman Beach
Potami Beach

Filikur Beach
