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Preza Fortress: A Window to Albania's Past

Explore Preza Fortress: A medieval castle offering panoramic views and a glimpse into Albania's rich history and cultural heritage.

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Perched on a hilltop overlooking the village of Prezë, Albania, the Preza Fortress is a medieval castle with a rich history dating back to the 14th century. Offering panoramic views of the Tirana plain, it's a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and sightseers alike.

A brief summary to Preza Fortress

  • 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 sunset for breathtaking views and photo opportunities.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain around the castle can be uneven.
  • Bring water and snacks, as facilities may be limited.
  • Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the castle's history.
  • Explore the nearby village of Prezë for a taste of traditional Albanian life.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The most convenient way to reach Preza Fortress is by car. From Tirana, take the SH1 road towards the northwest, following signs for Preza. The castle is approximately 20 kilometers from the city center. Follow the road leading to the hill where the castle stands. Parking is available near the castle. A taxi from Tirana will cost approximately $35 - $50.

  • Public Transport

    While public buses connect Tirana to the vicinity of Preza, reaching the castle may require additional transportation. Take a bus from Tirana to Prezë. The ride to Prezë should take about 30 minutes. Once you arrive in Prezë, the castle is within walking distance. Follow the signs or ask locals for directions uphill to reach Preza Castle. Bus fare is approximately 50-100 Lekë (€0.40-€0.80).

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Discover more about Preza Fortress

Preza Fortress, also known as Kalaja e Prezës, is a historical landmark located in the village of Prezë, Albania. The castle's construction began in the 14th century and was completed in the early 15th century, belonging to the local feudal Thopia family. However, some scholars believe that the castle was first built in the 3rd century BC. Throughout its history, the fortress has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times, leading to its nickname, the 'City of Phoenix'. During the 15th century, it served as one of the core strongholds of Albanian resistance against the Ottoman Empire led by Skanderbeg. The fortress has been declared a 'monument of culture' in Albania. The castle has four towers, one in each corner. The clock tower was erected around 1800–50. The fortress offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the Tirana plain, and is located close to Mother Teresa International Airport. Inside the castle, visitors can find a restaurant and other service facilities. The castle's strategic position was used for visual communication between the castles of Petrela, Kruja, Durrës, and Ishmi. The castle is shaped like an irregular pentagon with round towers at four of its corners and a rectangular tower near the middle of one of the walls.

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