Gjirokastër Old Town: A Stone Citadel of History
Explore Gjirokastër's Old Town: a UNESCO-listed 'City of Stone' with Ottoman architecture, a hilltop castle, and a vibrant bazaar.
Gjirokastër's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2005, offers a captivating journey into Albania's past. Known as the 'City of Stone' for its distinctive Ottoman-era stone houses, the Old Town invites visitors to explore its labyrinthine cobblestone streets and experience its unique charm. The Old Bazaar (Qafa e Pazarit), the heart of the Old Town, was once a bustling commercial hub. Today, it's lined with souvenir shops, cafes, and restaurants, retaining its old-world charm. The traditional architecture, with its iconic white-plastered buildings, whispers stories of a rich history. Dominating the skyline is the imposing Gjirokastër Fortress, dating back to the 12th century. This is one of the largest castles in the Balkans, offering panoramic views of the city and the Drino Valley. Inside, discover the Gjirokastër Museum, the Arms Museum, and a Cold War-era tunnel, each providing a glimpse into different periods of the city's past. Explore the Ethnographic Museum, housed in the former home of Enver Hoxha, the communist dictator, to gain insight into 19th-century Albanian life. Wander through the Palorto district to admire the best-preserved traditional houses. Gjirokastër's Old Town is more than just a collection of historical buildings; it's a living testament to the region's cultural heritage. Be prepared for steep climbs and uneven surfaces, but the reward is an unforgettable experience in one of Albania's most beautiful and historically significant cities.
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the cobblestone streets, as the terrain can be uneven.
- Visit the Gjirokastër Castle for panoramic views of the city and surrounding valley.
- Explore the Old Bazaar for souvenirs, local crafts, and traditional Albanian cuisine.
- Consider a guided tour to learn more about the history and culture of Gjirokastër.
- Visit the Cold War Tunnel for a glimpse into Albania's communist past.
A brief summary to Old town
- 34FM+M7G, Street Bashkim Kokona, Gjirokaster, 6001, AL
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Getting There
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Walking
The Old Town of Gjirokastër is best explored on foot due to its pedestrian-friendly zone. From the Tourist Information Center in the Old Bazaar, most attractions, including the Gjirokastër Fortress, Ethnographic Museum, and Skenduli House, are within walking distance. Be prepared for steep, cobblestone streets.
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Public Transport
Local buses connect the New Town with the Old Town. You can catch a bus from 'Bulevardi 18 Shtatori' in the New Town to the Old Town. The cost is minimal, approximately 30-50 Lek. From the bus stop in the Old Town, it's a short walk to the main attractions.
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Taxi
Taxis are available in Gjirokastër and can be a convenient option to reach the Old Town from the New Town or the bus station. A short taxi ride from the New Town to the Old Town costs approximately 300-500 Lek. Taxis can be found at the River Bridge (Ura e Lumit) and along 'Bulevardi 18 Shtatori'.
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Parking
If arriving by car, parking is available near the Old Town, including an underground parking garage. Expect to pay around €2 for 3 hours. Some limited free parking is available closer to the Gjirokastër Castle, but the road is steep and narrow. Private parking is also available for 1000 Lek per day.
