Proceedings of the 2 nd ICAUD International Conference in Architecture and Urban Design Epoka University, Tirana, Albania, 08-10 May 2014 Paper No. 368 329-1 Waterfront Planning for Sustainable Development of Natural and Archeological Heritage Florian Nepravishta, Dorina Pllumbi, Klaud Manehasa Polytechnic University of Tirana, Faculty of Architecture and Urbanism Tirana, Albania florian.nepravishta@fau.edu.al; dorina.pllumbi@fau.edu.al; klaud.manehasa@fau.edu.al Oltion Marko Polytechnic University of Tirana, Faculty of Civil Engineering Tirana, Albania omarko_78@yahoo.com ABSTRACT Orikum area, with many natural and archaeological potential, is positioned in the meeting place of three water systems: the sea, the river and the lagoon with the wetland. The waterfront planning design aims the development of this site in harmony with nature and its history. The paper is oriented toward practical problems of the waterfront planning for sustainable development of Orikum. The specific issues which are addressed include changing the waterfront image by improving accessibility, linking and preservation of natural and archaeological heritage. An incremental approach to implementation is recommended, with emphasis upon principles of sustainable and environmental design for tourism development and the role of urban design guidelines for waterfront development and the preservation of the natural and cultural heritage, as well as to the development of the community. The results of research show that the waterfront planning concepts of sustainability and innovation will be highly strategic and operative to reach successful urban development. KEYWORDS: waterfront planning, sustainable development, natural and archaeological heritage 1 INTRODUCTION Orikum is located in the south-west of Albania. Surrounded by a beautiful landscape consisting of mountain, sea, meadow, wetland and long views of expansive sky and horizon, the area is a rich with attractive archeological heritage, visited spots and other elements related to cultural tourism. Ancient city of Orikos was established by the Eubeas in the VI century BC in the Illyrian land of the Amantians, over the hill known by the name Paleokaster. It has been mentioned by the ancient authors of the V century BC as an important harbor. The place had an important role in the war between Cesar and Pompey. It was invaded by Alexander the Great in 214 BC. In the VII century BC, close by the Marmiroi church was built. Archeological excavations were limited to these territories because of being part of the military naval base. The ancient military harbor, so-called by Ottomans Pashaliman 1 , served as an important naval base during the Cold War between the Eastern and Western blocs. 1 In the Byzantine and Medieval times was known as a small port named Jericho, and later, at the time of the Ottoman conquest was named Pashaliman.