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Kanina Castle: A Sentinel Over Vlora

Explore Kanina Castle: a historic Albanian fortress with panoramic views, offering a glimpse into centuries of captivating history and stunning Adriatic vistas.

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Kanina Castle, perched high above Vlora, Albania, offers a captivating blend of ancient history and stunning panoramic views. Dating back to the 3rd century BC, this fortress has been a silent witness to the rise and fall of empires, from the Illyrians to the Ottomans, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Albania's rich past and breathtaking vistas of the Adriatic coast.

A brief summary to Kanina Castle

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain within the castle is uneven.
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and enjoy cooler temperatures.
  • Bring water, especially during the summer months.
  • Check the local weather conditions before your visit.
  • Consider taking a guided tour to gain a deeper understanding of the castle's history.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From the center of Vlora, drive towards Kaninë village. Follow the signs for Kanina. Once in the village, follow the signs directing you towards the castle. The drive takes approximately 10 minutes. Parking is available near the castle entrance. There are no tolls on this route. Parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    From Vlora, take a local bus towards Kaninë village. Buses typically depart from the area south of the Independence Monument. The bus fare is around 30 Lek. Once in Kaninë, follow the walking directions from the village center to reach the castle (approximately 20-30 minutes uphill). Alternatively, from Vlora you can take a taxi to Kanina Castle directly. Taxi fares typically range from 500-800 ALL.

  • Walking

    If you are already in Kaninë village, the castle is within walking distance. From the village center, head southeast on Rruga Kaninë towards the castle. The walk is approximately 1.5 kilometers and should take around 20-30 minutes. Follow the signs for Kanina Castle, and enjoy the scenic views as you approach your destination. Be prepared for an uphill walk with uneven terrain.

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Discover more about Kanina Castle

Kanina Castle, locally known as Kalaja e Kaninës, stands as a majestic ruin overlooking the Bay of Vlora. Located approximately 6 kilometers southeast of Vlora's city center, the castle's origins trace back to the 3rd century BC when it served as a secured settlement for the Amantes, an Illyrian tribal community. Its strategic position, 380 meters above sea level on Mount Shushica, provided control over the Bay of Vlora and the surrounding region. Throughout its history, Kanina Castle has been a coveted prize, witnessing numerous battles and sieges. The Byzantines transformed the settlement into a castle town in the 4th century AD, and it was reconstructed again under Emperor Justinian I in the 6th century. In the 13th century, it served as a stronghold for the Angevin Kingdom of Albania, later falling into the hands of the Principality of Valona. The Ottomans seized it in 1417 and further fortified it, recognizing its strategic importance. The Venetians briefly captured it in 1690 before the Ottomans reclaimed it the following year. Bombings during World War I and the Vlora War in 1920 caused further damage, and the castle was eventually abandoned in the 19th century. Today, visitors can explore the well-preserved walls, robust towers, and labyrinthine passageways of this ancient fortress. The castle grounds offer panoramic viewpoints with breathtaking views of Vlora, the bay, and the Adriatic Sea. Though time and conflict have worn down the small medieval churches within the castle, they remain powerful symbols of spiritual resilience.

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