On the enchanting shores of Lake Ohrid, in Lin Pogradec, in the southeastern Albanian village of Lin, lies a historical treasure now confirmed as the oldest known settlement in all of Europe.
On June 30, 2025, the University of Bern, in collaboration with the Institute of Archaeology of Albania and a team of Swiss and German experts, announced the final results of a 4-year underwater excavation project. Their findings confirm that the stilt village of Lin dates back to around 6600 BC approximately 8,600 years ago.
What Was Discovered in Lin?
Through underwater excavations, the Albanian-Swiss-German research team unearthed one of the most remarkable prehistoric settlements ever recorded:
- Thousands of well-preserved wooden posts, once used to support homes built above water.
- Stone tools and early ceramics with decorative motifs characteristic of the Balkans’ earliest pottery.
- Thick layers of stamped ceramics, among the first of their kind in the region.
- Organized underground trenches, suggesting an early form of urban planning.
- Pine wood piles, believed to be remnants of walls or roofs.
- Dendrochronological data that matched tree-ring samples across Lake Ohrid, linking the Albanian and North Macedonian shores.
Experts confirm that this stilt settlement predates even the famous prehistoric lake dwellings in the Swiss Alps and other parts of the Balkans. It showcases advanced technologies for its time, especially in construction and agriculture.
A Journey Into Prehistoric Times
This groundbreaking discovery reshapes how we understand the origins of civilization in Europe. Lin is now recognized as a critical point of reference for early human settlements, placing Albania at the heart of European archaeology.
📍 What to Visit in Lin, Pogradec
Lin is more than just an archaeological marvel – it’s a place of breathtaking nature, local culture, and warm hospitality:
- Explore Europe’s oldest known settlement, now accessible to the public.
- Visit the ancient Lin mosaic, a Byzantine relic showcasing early Christian art.
- Take in the panoramic views of Lake Ohrid, surrounded by peaceful walking trails.
- Experience the traditional lifestyle and local cuisine in this quiet lakeside village.
🏛️ For Researchers, Explorers, and Nature Lovers
Lin now stands as a landmark of prehistoric Europe, inviting researchers, history buffs, and curious travelers to uncover its secrets and imagine life 8,000 years ago.
📌 Visit Lin and discover the deepest roots of European civilization — where culture, nature, and archaeology meet in one unforgettable Albanian destination.haeology meet in an unforgettable Albanian landscape.
📖 For more extraordinary discoveries in Albania, including the largest underground thermal lake in the world, read also:
👉 Neuron Lake – A Geological Wonder in the Heart of Albania
👉 Nivica Travel Guide – Two Days in the Wild Heart of Albania
