Rozafa Castle: A Sentinel of Shkodër

Rozafa Castle (Kalaja e Rozafës) is one of Albania's most revered cultural landmarks. Perched atop a hill, it stands as a testament to centuries of history and legend. The castle's strategic location at the meeting point of three rivers and by the shore of Shkodra Lake affords panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.The castle has ancient Illyrian roots and has witnessed the ebb and flow of various civilizations, including the Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, and Ottomans. The Illyrians built the castle, which the Romans eventually conquered in 167 AD. Most of the fortifications that are still visible today are Venetian in design. Later on, the Ottomans also contributed to the alterations made to the castle. The Turkish siege of the castle in 1478-1479 is perhaps the most well-known of the many sieges that have taken place at the castle.Rozafa Castle is best known for the legend of Rozafa, a tale of sacrifice and devotion. According to folklore, the wife of one of the three brothers building the fortress was walled into the structure to keep it from collapsing. She agreed, under the condition that her right breast, eye, hand, and foot be left free so she could continue to care for her infant son. This story is immortalized in a sculpture near the castle entrance and remains a moving symbol of maternal strength.Inside, you'll find the remnants of various civilizations, including Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman influences, as well as a small museum detailing the castle's past. The best-preserved building is the Church of St. Stephen, dating from the beginning of the 14th century. After the Ottoman conquest, it was converted into the Mosque of Sultan Fatih, and a minaret was added.