Discovering the most beautiful castles in Albania, on the trail of a past dotted with captivating stories and legends, glorious medieval cities and ancient villages, heirs of the most important civilizations that have characterized European history for the last two thousand years. Albania is a land rich in historical treasures and boasts an array of captivating landmarks, well-kept secrets in its valleys and mountains that are only recently opening up to curious foreign eyes.
Amidst tales of valiant warriors and the ebb and flow of empires, the castles in Albania are custodians of the troubled history of the Balkans and after years of decline and neglect, they are timidly re-emerging to their former glory. From ancient fortresses evoking whispers of time to medieval bastions that have weathered centuries, these sites reveal Albania’s complex history. With a staggering 158 castles gracing the landscape, these enclaves of the Ottoman, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian empires are both numerous and diverse. Some stand in proud ruins, while others have found new life as guesthouses and dining establishments.
While an odyssey through all the castles may prove elusive, a curated selection beckons. These enclaves not only bear cultural and historical significance, but also bestow vistas that inspire awe-sweeping panoramas of townships, cities, and the azure expanse of the sea. As you tread through Albania’s castle-strewn terrain, let each fortress be a chapter in your expedition through time.
The 10 Most Beautiful Castles in Albania
Krujë Castle
Perched atop the rugged terrain, crowning the town of Krujë, lies a silent witness to the Albanian history: the Krujë Castle. Its significance reverberates through the ages, intertwined with the valiant spirit of Albania’s national hero, Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg. This architectural gem, a pivotal site during Skanderbeg’s defiance against the Ottoman Empire, draws visitors seeking a glimpse into Albania’s storied past.
Built in the enigmatic embrace of the 5th or 6th century, Krujë Castle stands as a sentinel above the eponymous city. Its elliptical form encases a trove of relics, each narrating a chapter of Albania’s narrative. This formidable structure witnessed the tumultuous Albanian Revolt of 1432-1436 and the subsequent resurgence of Ottoman rule.
However, it was during Skanderbeg’s resolute rebellion in 1443 that the castle truly etched its name into the annals of history. A series of ardent sieges ensued, with Krujë Castle standing steadfast against the relentless onslaught of Mehmed II “The Conqueror” and his forces. The fortress, under Skanderbeg’s command, displayed unwavering resilience during three monumental sieges in 1450, 1466, and 1467. It was a decade after Skanderbeg’s demise that Mehmed II finally breached the castle’s defenses in 1478.
Within the castle’s weathered walls, a tapestry of cultural treasures awaits discovery. The Teqe of Dollme of the Bektashi, an Islamic Sufi sect, whispers of devotion and mysticism. The National Skanderbeg Museum stands as a testament to Skanderbeg’s enduring legacy, while fragments of the Fatih Sultan Mehmed Mosque and its minaret evoke a bygone era. An ethnographic museum and a Turkish Bath complete this historical tableau, inviting visitors to journey through time.
Today, Krujë Castle emerges not only as a beacon of Albania’s rich heritage but also as a source of inspiration for a nation. As visitors ascend its stone steps and wander its courtyards, they partake in an evocative pilgrimage, connecting with the resolute spirit that once coursed through Skanderbeg’s veins.
Berat Castle
Nestled atop a rugged hill along the meandering river Osum, the Berat Castle (Kalaja e Beratit), stands as a testament to Albania’s enduring history. This ancient fortress, with origins stretching back over two millennia, has witnessed the rise and fall of empires, the passage of time, and the ever-changing tides of civilization. The earliest records of Berat Castle date back to 200 B.C., when its towering walls suffered destruction at the hands of the Romans.
These formidable fortifications, strategically positioned to guard against the relentless tide of barbarian incursions, were diligently reinforced over the centuries. From the legacy of the Roman Emperor Theodosius II to the resilient efforts of the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, the castle’s architecture evolved, reflecting the ebb and flow of power and cultural influence. Dating predominantly from the 13th century, the current incarnation of Berat Castle exudes an understated grandeur.
The fortress boasts over 20 watchtowers and robust stone walls that provide an unrivaled vantage point for gazing out over the town and its stunning surroundings. The old town of Berat developed right inside the walls of the ancient castle, and now you can easily wander through its labyrinthine uphill streets, through its cafes, shops, restaurants, houses, and churches. The Church of St. Mary of Blachernae and the King Mosque, relics of Byzantine and Ottoman influence, further enrich the cultural mosaic within the castle’s confines.
Berat‘s architectural marvel is further complemented by its inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Historic Centres of Berat and Gjirokastra” alongside its sister city Gjirokastër. The town itself, with its brick-roofed houses and storied streets, embodies the legacy of a civilization that has flourished for over two millennia. The Citadel of Berat, standing tall amidst the rugged landscape, invites visitors to explore its rich history. Whether reached by a leisurely stroll or a scenic drive, a journey to Berat Castle is a voyage through time, a chance to walk in the footsteps of emperors, warriors, and everyday people who have contributed to its storied legacy.
Gjirokastër Castle
In the heart of Albania lies the captivating town of Gjirokastra, adorned with exquisite stonework that has earned it the moniker city of stone. This UNESCO-designated gem is an ideal destination for a tranquil two-night retreat. While the town itself boasts a unique charm, its crown jewel is undoubtedly the Gjirokastër Castle, an imposing fortress that has witnessed centuries of history.
Dating back to the 12th century, and constructed from enduring grey cobblestone, the Gjirokastër Castle stands as one of the largest fortresses in both Albania and the Balkans region. Perched atop a prominent hill, the castle provides a panoramic vantage point that offers a bird’s-eye view of the enchanting Gjirokastra below. Originating as a defensive stronghold, this castle predates the Berat Castle by a century. It is steeped in legend, with one particularly poignant tale revolving around the folklore of Princess Argjiro. The story recounts how the brave princess leaped from the castle walls, child in her arms, to evade the Ottoman forces.
Today, the castle stands not only as a historical relic but also as a cultural hub. For history enthusiasts, the site houses the Gjirokaster Museum, offering a fascinating journey through the annals of time. The castle also boasts a clock tower, five towers and a cistern that harkens back to its strategic significance, and hosts the National Folk Festival every five years, bringing to life the vibrant traditions and heritage of the region.
Additionally, a military museum tells of the local resistance against the Nazi-fascist occupation forces during WWII, shows some tanks of the time and also some curious gems: for example here it is exhibited a captured U.S. Air Force plane, which serves as poignant reminder of the Cold War years and the controversial communist resistance against perceived Western powers.
Lëkurësi Castle
Perched proudly atop a coastal hill overlooking the town of Sarandë and the Ionian Sea, lies the Lëkurësi Castle. This 16th-century fortress, attributed to Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent offers breathtaking panoramic vistas and although time has weathered its walls, stands as a testament to its historical significance.
Once a sentinel of strategic importance, this castle played a crucial role in safeguarding the surrounding villages and controlling important routes. One of the most important and tragic chapters in its history was the 18th-century invasion by Ali Pasha of Tepelena, which left its mark by enveloping the castle in compelling stories, and heralded its subsequent decline.
Today, the castle ruins remain perched atop the coastal hill. Little remains of its original splendor, and a restaurant has now been built within the remains of its ancient walls. Anyway, the best thing to do there is admire the breathtaking view of Saranda. The castle can be reached with a 45-minute walk from the center of Saranda or with a few minutes by car or taxi. From a terrace you can enjoy an imposing view of the Ionian Sea and the entire city. Go there at sunset, when the sun casts its warm tones on the sea.
Ali Pasha Castle in Butrint
Nestled along the stunning Albanian coastline, the Ali Pasha Castle in Butrint stands as a testament to centuries of history and exudes an air of mystique that captivates all who venture here, especially for its truly unique position: in the middle of the sea. The castle, in fact, stands on a small island at the mouth of the Butrint Lagoon, reachable only by boat.
Its history is linked to the last centuries of the glorious past of Butrint, an ancient city now destroyed, of which even traces had been lost for many centuries. In fact, it was only at the beginning of the 1900s that an expedition of Italian explorers managed to discover its remains. Butrint’s past is a mosaic of civilizations, having evolved from a Greek colony to a Roman city, to then be a strategic port for the Venetians and an outpost for the Ottomans. Its important historical and archaeological heritage, in addition to the naturalistic significance of the lagoon on which it stands, have earned it recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Ali Pasha Castle, distinct among Albania’s fortresses, holds a unique distinction – serving as Ali Pasha‘s abode until the 19th century. The castle’s primary purpose was to control and defend the sea access of the port and city of Butrint, as well as to impose control over the important coastal routes. Named after Ali Pasha of Tepelenë, who resided within its walls until 1820, the castle stands in proximity to the renowned coastal towns of Ksamil and Saranda, and in the heart of Butrint National Park, a pinnacle of Albania’s natural beauty.
The castle’s mystique is heightened by its secluded island location, accessible solely by enlisting the help of a local fisherman. It is absolutely worth traveling there to also admire the Butrint Archaeological Park, the nearby Venetian Triangular Fortress, and the incredible views from the vantage points along the road from Saranda to Butrint, which also give access to a panoramic path that offers a wonderful view of the castle and the sea. It is also worth exploring the hiking trails in the area, for beautiful walks in nature, and to enjoy the still quite authentic atmosphere of this corner of Southern Albania.
Porto Palermo Castle
Another enigmatic – albeit modest – castle in Albania stands a few kilometers south of Himarë within the captivating Albanian Riviera. Porto Palermo Castle, also associated with the figure of Ali Pasha, is believed to have originally been built by the Venetians, although its origins are uncertain and shrouded in mystery. However, its distinctive triangular layout and cylindrical towers, a departure from the conventional star-shaped designs of its time, strengthen the arguments about its Venetian origin.
The small fortress was subsequently conquered by the Ottomans, who at the beginning of the 19th century granted its use to the British Royal Navy. Its appearance is that of a small fort located on top of a promontory leaning towards the gulf, with a sensational view of the sea. It stands guard over the harbor and surrounding bays, and this would have earned it some strategic importance even in recent times. In fact, the nearby area also served as a significant Soviet naval installation during Albania’s communist regime. There was probably a secret Soviet submarine base here.
Today, Porto Palermo, although still partly guarding military secrets, is a valid stop on a road trip through the Albanian Riviera. A brief stroll from the road leads to the castle’s entrance, inviting visitors to wander through its corridors, delve into its history, and ascend to the commanding battlements that offer an awe-inspiring panorama of the azure sea and coastline.
Unlike some of its counterparts, Porto Palermo Castle has been spared the ravages of time, retaining its structural integrity and offering a window into Albania’s past. Beneath the fortress lies the enticing Porto Palermo Beach, a small beach overlooking a crystalline sea. But don’t be put off by the rather dilapidated and less-than-pristine surroundings.
Rozafa Castle
Rozafa Castle is probably one of the most beautiful castles in Albania, and also one of the most underrated. Perched on a rugged hill overlooking the confluence of the Drini, Kiri and Buna Rivers near Shkodër in northwestern Albania, Rozafa Castle is a limestone fortress steeped in a history spanning over two millennia, which has witnessed the ebb and flow of power, changing hands from the Illyrians to the Romans, Serbians, Venetians, and Ottomans.
Originally an Illyrian stronghold, whose origins date back to the 4th or early 3rd century BC, the castle fell to Roman forces in 167 B.C., an event that marked a pivotal moment in its evolution. Today, Rozafa Castle is a revered landmark in the region, drawing visitors with its commanding views from ancient battlements and walls. While time has weathered its stone structures, the castle’s allure remains undiminished, offering a captivating glimpse into Albania’s storied past, as well as fine views of the valley below.
Often referred to as the Shkoder Castle, today only a few remains remain, such as the mighty walls and part of the structures that once stood inside, which can be easily visited with an easy and short walk that can be concluded with a visit to its museum. Within the castle there are the ruins of a 13th-century Venetian Catholic St. Stephen’s Cathedral, which after the Siege of Shkodër in the 15th century, when the Ottoman Empire captured the city, was transformed into the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Mosque. The castle has been the site of several famous sieges, including the Siege of Shkodër of 1478-79 and the Siege of Shkodër of 1912-13.
However, it is the legendary tale of the three brothers that most encapsulates the castle’s mystique. An old sage’s counsel to sacrifice a wife to ensure the fortress’s durability led to the enduring legend of Rozafa, the young bride who was buried within its walls. A poignant sculpture within the Museum of Rozafa Castle captures this heartrending tale, the life-sized figure of Rozafa with a child clinging to her. In the surrounding area, the 17th-century Lead Mosque (Xhamia e Plumbit), whose domes were once covered with lead, is also worth a look.
Himarë Castle
Visiting Himarë Castle is equivalent to stepping into the ancient medieval settlement of the same name, which is situated not along the coast, but rather perched magnificently atop a hill. Unlike other castles in Albania, tracing the perimeter and original structures of this fortress isn’t easy, as it’s seamlessly merged with the ancient village. Nonetheless, this fusion creates an entity worth exploring. Dating back to the 4th century, Himarë Castle underwent a transformation into a formidable fortress during the 8th century, reflecting its evolving role in the region’s history.
Cobblestone remnants offer a vantage point that frames the charming town below, the serene Ionian Sea, and the inviting embrace of Livadhi Beach. Within the castle’s time-worn walls, hidden treasures await discovery. Two graceful churches—the Church of St. Mary Kasopitra and the Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus—stand as humble yet enduring symbols of faith and devotion. Not far from the castle’s foothills, the Church of All Saints serves as a reminder of the spiritual tapestry woven into the fortress’s legacy.
You can reach Himarë Castle from the modern town with an uphill walk of approximately 3 km or by car, as the main road (SH8) passes directly through the castle town. A few residents call this historical haven home, and a selection of charming guest houses beckons those who wish to dwell within the castle’s embrace.
Fortress of Bashtovë
Set in the countryside 30 kilometers south of Durrës, the Fortress of Bashtovë is arguably one of the most mysterious and interesting castles in Albania. It stands as a silent sentinel, overlooking the convergence of the Shkumbin River. It is believed that the fortress was built in the 6th century when the area was under Byzantine rule, and later rebuilt by the Venetians. The role of the fortress was to protect the sea lanes and the nearby port, serving the region which was an important center for the cultivation of wheat and other cereals.
Naturally, one might wonder: how did a fortress in the middle of the countryside protect a port? Indeed, the fortress is located in a flat area near the estuary of the Shkumbin River, about four kilometers from the sea! Historians speculate that at the time of its construction, the sea probably must have been closer to the building. The fortress’s rectangular form, its imposing walls rising 9 meters high, guarded both the fertile fields to the east and the maritime routes of the Adriatic to the west. An intersection of history and trade, the fortress also commanded the renowned “Via Egnatia,” an artery that connected civilizations and cultures.
While the exact origins of Bashtovë Castle remain shrouded in debate, its presence can be traced back to the intricate tapestry of empires. Today, Bashtovë Castle finds itself on Albania’s UNESCO tentative list, awaiting coveted recognition as a World Heritage Site. The crumbling walls and weathered towers evoke a sense of nostalgia, reminding us of a time when empires rose and fell, leaving behind enduring relics that echo their grandeur. Only a few ruins remain, but towers and elements of the courtyard still stand out, making it a hidden gem that is certainly fascinating.
Borsh Castle
Nestled gracefully along the Albanian coastline of the Ionian Sea, the Borsh Castle stands as a silent sentinel, echoing tales of Albanian history that span the Byzantine era and the Middle Ages. Known also as the Sopot Castle (Kalaja e Sopotit), this ancient edifice with its triangular towers perches atop a rugged hill in the village of Borsh, easily accessible by a road that starts from the village below. With roots reaching deep into antiquity, it claims its place as possibly the oldest castle in Albania.
The history etched into the stones of Borsh Castle tells of its evolution through time. Tracing its origins to the ancient era, vestiges of Greek settlement lend an air of mystery to its foundation. The pages of time unfurl further to reveal the 17th-century Hajji Bendo Mosque, an exquisite gem of Ottoman heritage nestled within the castle’s embrace.
Weathered by the hands of time and the tumultuous tides of history, the castle and its mosque still stand, although showing the scars of their journey. The mosque’s dome and minaret, though shackled by age, still command respect. The echoes of destruction endured during Albania’s communist era reverberate through the frescoes and cisterns within the mosque, but the enduring spirit of Borsh Castle remains unyielding.
Other Beautiful Castles in Albania
Elbasan Castle
The remains of Elbasan Castle are now incorporated within the historic town of Elbasan, and although its original appearance is distorted, it is still possible to admire its ancient and mighty walls today. Its origins trace back over two millennia to the 3rd century B.C., when the Romans erected this stronghold as a safeguard for the vital town. Ravaged by conflicts in the 300s and 400s, the castle was resurrected under Emperor Justinian’s stewardship, becoming a sentinel along the crucial Via Egnatia.
In the annals of history, Elbasan Castle played roles as diverse as the leaders who shaped it. During the Ottoman era, Mehmet the Second harnessed its walls as a strategic base for his campaign against Skanderberg. The zenith of the castle’s legacy arrived in the 17th century when it encompassed over 2,000 houses and nearly 1,000 workshops. Remarkably, life continues within these ancient walls as a thriving community resides amidst the massive ramparts.
This living relic contrasts modernity with history, as residents harmoniously dwell with the remnants of the past. Among these echoes are the Catholic Church, the Orthodox Church of St. Mary’s Assumption, the King’s Mosque, and the timeless Clock Tower, which still stands tall and functional. Within these precincts also lies Sinan Pasha’s Turkish bath, an impeccably preserved gem from the early 19th century.
Kanina Castle
Very little remains of the ancient Kanina Castle (Kalaja e Kaninës), but it is still one of the most popular and frequently visited castles in Albania. The reason is simple: it offers an unparalleled view of the city of Vlora and the sea. It is located near the tranquil village of Kaninë in the southwestern region of Vlora and was once one of the most important castles in Albania.
Its origins shrouded in the mists of time, this ancient stronghold is believed to have emerged between the 3rd and 4th centuries BC. It evolved into a formidable fortress in subsequent centuries and then fell into ruins at the end of the Middle Ages when its strategic importance was lost. Today, it appears as a hill dotted with remains, sporadic clusters of trees, and unassuming shrubbery, offering an amazing panorama of the valley and the sea.
Perched atop Shushica Mountain’s gentle slope, the castle can be reached with a short drive from Vlora, a journey rewarded by a captivating panorama, especially enchanting as the sun dips below the horizon. I used to love coming up here to hang out and have a picnic, but now it seems they are charging an entrance fee of 300 Lek to see the few remains and enjoy the view, which is a bit overpriced.
Lezhë Castle
Lezhë Castle (Kalaja e Lezhës) is one of the lesser-known castles in Albania, situated atop a hill in the town of Lezhë in the northern part of the country, not far from Shkodër. Standing at a height of 186 meters, this fortress offers an all-encompassing view of the winding course of the Drin River and the urban landscape below. Rooted in Illyrian heritage, the castle’s enduring legacy is interwoven through time with the imprints of the Venetians, Ottomans, Romans, Byzantines, and more.
Although only a few remains of this castle exist today, the suggestive perimeter walls are still visible, along with some of the gates, remnants of towers—both Roman and Illyrian—and the vestiges of an ancient mosque. Constructed entirely of stone, the weathered walls of the castle harbor the whispers of centuries past. The castle can be easily reached by car from the village below, and it’s worth taking a moment to stop and enjoy a short walk to admire its remains. Even here now they are asking for an entrance ticket.
