The Castle of Gjirokastra is a medieval fortress located in the city of Gjirokastra, in southern Albania. The castle dates back to the 13th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The castle played a significant role in the history of the region and has been well-preserved over the centuries.
The castle is situated on a hilltop overlooking the city and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Visitors can explore the castle's towers, battlements, and courtyards, as well as see the armory, the prison, and the mosque. Inside the castle, there is also the Ethnographic Museum of Gjirokastra, which showcases the traditional way of life of the region's inhabitants.
The Castle of Gjirokastra is open to the public year-round, with different opening hours depending on the season. The admission fee to enter the castle is around 2-3$
The city of Gjirokastra is well-connected by public transportation and it is possible to take a bus or minibus from Tirana or other nearby cities. Visitors can also reach Gjirokastra by car.
When visiting the Castle of Gjirokastra, it is important to wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as the castle is located on a hill and there are many steps to climb. It is also recommended to bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, as the castle is exposed to the sun.
Visitors should also be respectful of the castle's historical significance and refrain from climbing on walls or damaging any of the structures. It is also recommended to combine the visit to the castle with other attractions in Gjirokastra, such as the Old Town, the Bazaar, and the Ottoman Houses, which are also UNESCO World Heritage sites.
All You Need to Know Before Visiting The Castle of Gjirokastra:
Location: The Castle of Gjirokastra is located in the city of Gjirokastra, in southern Albania. It is situated on a hilltop overlooking the city and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Accessibility: The castle is open to the public year-round, but the opening hours vary depending on the season. Visitors can explore the castle's towers, battlements, and courtyards, as well as see the armory, the prison, and the mosque. Inside the castle, there is also the Ethnographic Museum of Gjirokastra, which showcases the traditional way of life of the region's inhabitants.
Opening hours: The Castle is open to the public year-round, but the opening hours vary depending on the season. It is best to check the official website or contact the local tourist information office for the most up-to-date information.
Entrance fee: The admission fee to enter the castle is around 2-3$
Transportation: Gjirokastra is well-connected by public transportation and it is possible to take a bus or minibus from Tirana or other nearby cities. Visitors can also reach Gjirokastra by car.
Safety: The castle is an ancient structure and visitors should exercise caution when exploring it, particularly when climbing stairs or on uneven ground. It is also recommended to wear comfortable shoes and clothing as the castle is located on a hill and there are many steps to climb.
Facilities: There are no facilities or amenities at the castle, but there are restrooms available at the entrance.
Photography: Visitors are allowed to take photos of the castle, but it is important to be respectful of the historical significance of the site and refrain from climbing on walls or damaging any of the structures.
Respect the environment: Visitors should be respectful of the environment by not littering or disturbing the locals. Visitors should also be careful not to leave any trash behind when leaving the area.
Combining with other attractions: Visitors can combine their visit to the castle with other attractions in Gjirokastra, such as the Old Town, the Bazaar, and the Ottoman Houses, which are also UNESCO World Heritage sites. It is also possible to visit the nearby towns of Saranda, Tepelena and Permet, which all have their unique culture and history.