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Kanina Castle: A Sentinel Over Vlora

Explore Kanina Castle: A historic Albanian fortress offering panoramic views and a glimpse into centuries of captivating history.

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Kanina Castle, perched above the village of Kaninë near Vlora, Albania, offers a glimpse into the region's layered past. Originally an Illyrian settlement, it evolved through Byzantine, Angevin, and Ottoman rule, each leaving their mark on its fortifications. Today, its ruins provide panoramic views and a tangible connection to Albania's history.

A brief summary to Kanina Castle

  • Monday 8 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-6 pm
  • Friday 8 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain within the castle is uneven.
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
  • Bring water, especially during the summer months.
  • Take a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the castle's history.
  • Check the local weather forecast before your visit.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From the center of Vlora, drive towards Kaninë village. Follow the signs for Kanina. Once in the village, follow the signs directing you towards the castle. The drive takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Parking is available near the castle entrance. There are no tolls on this route. Parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    From Vlora, take a local bus towards Kaninë village. Buses typically depart from the area south of the Independence Monument. The bus fare is around 30 Lek. Once in Kaninë, follow the walking directions from the village center to reach the castle (approximately 20-30 minutes uphill). Alternatively, from Vlora you can take a taxi to Kanina Castle directly. Taxi fares typically range from 500-800 ALL.

  • Walking

    From the center of Kaninë village, the castle is easily accessible on foot. Head southeast on Rruga Kaninë towards the castle. The walk is approximately 1.5 kilometers and should take around 20-30 minutes. Follow the signs for Kanina Castle, enjoying the scenic views as you approach. Be prepared for an uphill walk with uneven terrain.

Unlock the Best of Kanina Castle

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Discover more about Kanina Castle

Kanina Castle, or Kalaja e Kaninës, stands as a majestic ruin overlooking the Bay of Vlora, approximately 6 kilometers southeast of the city center. The castle's origins trace back to the 3rd century BC when it served as a secured settlement for the Amantes, an Illyrian tribal community. Its strategic position, 380 meters above sea level on Mount Shushica, provided control over the Bay of Vlora and the surrounding region. Over the centuries, Kanina Castle has been a silent witness to the ebb and flow of empires. The Byzantines transformed the settlement into a castle town in the 4th century AD, and Emperor Justinian I reconstructed it in the 6th century. It later served as a stronghold for the Angevin Kingdom of Albania in the 13th century and the Principality of Valona in the 14th century. The Ottoman Empire took control in 1417, further fortifying it. The castle was attacked by the Venetians in 1690, before being reclaimed by the Ottomans. Kanina Castle was eventually abandoned in the 19th century. Today, visitors can explore the well-preserved walls, imposing towers, and intricate gate structures that reflect the castle's diverse historical influences. Walking paths and panoramic viewpoints offer breathtaking views of Vlora, the bay, and the Adriatic Sea. The site provides a unique window into Albania's rich historical heritage.

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