Shën Sotirit: A Gjirokastër Orthodox Gem
Discover Shën Sotirit, a serene Orthodox church in Gjirokastër, showcasing Albania's religious art, architecture, and cultural heritage.
Shën Sotirit (Saint Sotiri) is a charming Orthodox church in Gjirokastër, Albania, celebrated for its elegant stone facade, intricate frescoes, and serene atmosphere. Once the seat of the local Orthodox bishop, it offers a glimpse into the region's spiritual and cultural heritage.
A brief summary to Shën Sotirit / Saint Sotiri
- 34GV+88F, Gjirokaster, AL
Local tips
- Combine your visit with a tour of Gjirokastër Castle for panoramic city views.
- Explore the nearby Old Bazaar for local crafts and souvenirs.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the area involves walking on cobblestone streets and slopes.
Getting There
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Walking
From Gjirokastër's Old Bazaar, walk northeast, following the cobblestone path towards the Gjirokastër Castle. Shën Sotirit is located on the slope leading up to the castle, below the Clock Tower. The walk is uphill and takes about 5-10 minutes. No costs are involved.
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Public Transport
Local city buses operate in Gjirokastër. Take a bus that goes towards the upper part of the city and get off near the entrance to the Gjirokastër Castle. From there, walk downhill for a few minutes to reach Shën Sotirit. A single bus fare costs approximately 30 Lek (€0.30).
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Taxi
A taxi from the city center to Shën Sotirit is a short ride. Taxis can be hailed on the street or booked via a mobile app. The base fare is around 2.7 USD, plus 2.5 USD per kilometer. Expect to pay around 400-500 Lek (€4-€5) for the trip.
Discover more about Shën Sotirit / Saint Sotiri
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Shën Sotirit / Saint Sotiri
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Discover Shën Sotirit, a serene Orthodox church in Gjirokastër, showcasing Albania's religious art, architecture, and cultural heritage.
Guest house Argjiro Castle
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Tourist Information Center
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Your gateway to exploring Gjirokaster's historic sites, cultural gems, and hidden treasures. Get maps, tips, and local insights for an unforgettable visit.
The Old Town Clock
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Corner of Bazaar
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Stone City Hostel
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Hotel Kastro
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Bukowksi Bar Gjirokaster
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Mapo Restaurant
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Visit Gjirokastra DMC
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Submarine 105
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Vojsava Restaurant
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Hangover Cocktail Bar
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Bashteja e Teqesë
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Taverna Murgana
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Unmissable attractions to see
Ruins of the Meçite
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Skena e Festivalit Folklorik Gjirokastër
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The cold war tunnel
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Tunel
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Çerçiz Topulli Square
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Lokid T-33
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Nostagia Tunnel
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Muzeu i Armëve
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Gjirokastra Old Town
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Gjirokastër Museum
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Gjirokastra Bazaar
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Qafa e Pazarit
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Gjirokastër Obelisk
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Castle of Gjirokastra
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Xhamia e Pazarit
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Essential places to dine
Restaurant Çajupi
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Restaurant "The Park"
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Sofra Bar Restaurant
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Bon Appetit
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Veranda Clockwise
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Rrapi Restaurant
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Restaurant Gjoça Tradicional
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Restaurant Tradicional Odaja
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Kujtimi Restaurant
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Grill House 13
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Furra Restaurant & Rooms
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SIMPLE RESTAURANT
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Restorant La Famiglia
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Rumors Restaurant Lounge
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Checkin-Restaurant & Pizzeri
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Experience Gjirokastra
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Bonna Design
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Elinikon
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Tobacco One
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Mozaik Antik Gjirokaster
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Edua Gjirokaster
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Mini market Pazar
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Handmade Eva
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Lulu’s Spot
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Alma Souvenir
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Mano handmade
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Aquila Liquori A&N GLAUK
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Artisan Shop
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Jona Souvenir
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SOUVENIR AL KETA
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
O’clock
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The Black Rose Pub
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Grey Stone Bar
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Old Town 13
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Babameto 2 - Cocktail Bar & Restaurant
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Komiteti Bar - Gjirokastër
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Gallery Irish Pub
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Bar Cafè Kotoni
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Bar cafe çoçoli
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Classic Coffee Bar
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Kastro bar
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Bar Center
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Oazi Bar
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Bar Shtaka
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Bar Restorant Gjirokaster Rapi
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