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Ali Pasha Bridge: A Testament to Ottoman Engineering

Discover the historical Ali Pasha Bridge near Gjirokaster, a hidden gem showcasing Ottoman engineering and offering a scenic escape.

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The Ali Pasha Bridge, located near Gjirokaster, Albania, is a remnant of a 19th-century aqueduct system commissioned by Ali Pasha of Tepelenë to supply water to Gjirokaster Castle. Though much of the aqueduct was destroyed in 1932, the remaining bridge offers a glimpse into the region's Ottoman past and provides a scenic, off-the-beaten-path destination for tourists.

A brief summary to Ali Pasha Bridge

  • 347J+VM5, Rruga Hito Lekdushi, Gjirokaster, AL
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit during sunrise or an hour before sunset for the best light and cooler temperatures.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as the path to the bridge involves walking on uneven terrain.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to Gjirokaster Castle and other nearby attractions to make the most of your day.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Gjirokaster's Old Town, follow the signs towards 'Aquaduct'. The hike to Ali Pasha Bridge is uphill and takes around 30 minutes. The path leads through the town, a small village, and farmland. Be prepared for loose gravel and rocks, so wear sturdy shoes.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Gjirokaster. A taxi from the city center to Ali Pasha Bridge will cost approximately 500 Lek. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

  • Public Transport

    Take a local bus from Gjirokaster to the nearby village of Kordhoc. Buses depart frequently from the city center. The bus fare is approximately 100 ALL. From Kordhoc, you can walk to the bridge (about 30 minutes) or hire a local taxi for around 500 ALL.

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Discover more about Ali Pasha Bridge

Nestled in a valley a short distance from Gjirokaster's cobblestone streets, the Ali Pasha Bridge stands as a reminder of Ottoman-era ingenuity. Constructed in the early 19th century under the patronage of Ali Pasha of Tepelenë, the bridge was part of an ambitious aqueduct system designed to provide a reliable water source for the Gjirokaster Castle. At the time, the castle lacked a natural water supply, making the aqueduct crucial for its function. The aqueduct, stretching approximately 12 kilometers, transported water from Mount Sopot to the castle's cisterns. The bridge itself is an impressive structure, measuring 40 meters in length, 2.3 meters in width, and 16 meters in height. Constructed from stone, it showcases the craftsmanship of Gjirokaster's stonemasons. Edward Lear, a British poet and painter, captured the bridge's original form in his mid-19th-century painting, offering a historical glimpse of the structure. While a significant portion of the aqueduct was destroyed in 1932, the remaining section, known as the Ali Pasha Bridge, has become a popular destination for those seeking to explore beyond Gjirokaster's main attractions. The bridge is accessible via a hiking trail, approximately a 30-minute walk from Gjirokaster, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. The bridge is also known as Manalat Bridge or Dunavat Bridge, named after neighborhoods of Gjirokaster.

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