Inscriptions on the Rock of Grama, Vlora

The Bay of Grammata, Grama or the Bay of Letters is located at the foot of the western slope of Karaburun, in an uninhabited area. In antiquity, the bay initially served as one of the largest quarries of the Karaburun peninsula, which was used since the 6th century BC.

It was declared a cultural monument in October 1948, construction of Shek. VI money. Kr. The number of inscriptions on the Rock of Grama is thought to be around 1,500.

In this quarry, the cliff has been exploited at a height of 130 m and a width of 100 m. After the abandonment of the quarry, starting from c. III money. Kr, on the flat faces created by cutting and removing rock blocks, prayers are engraved by sailors or travelers, who took shelter in this bay to escape storms.

The inscriptions are engraved on the frames and in most cases they are made by engraving. Most of the ancient inscriptions in the Greek language are addressed to Dioscuri, Castor and Pollux, who are savior deities, protectors of sailors.

During the Hellenistic period, the bay served as an open sanctuary dedicated to these entrances. In these inscriptions there are also the names of historical figures, such as that of Cnaeus Pompeius, the Byzantine emperor John V Paleologus or Mark Antony.

To get to Grama Bay, follow the land route, through paths such as: Llogara-Qafa e Thelle-Gropa e Kumbulla-Gjiri i Grama (lasts 5 hours and 30 minutes) and from "Rrugët e Badha" (Palace)-Shën Andrea- Grama Bay (lasts 4 hours).