Lezhë Castle: A Historical Fortress with Panoramic Views
Explore Lezhë Castle: A historic Albanian fortress with stunning panoramic views, blending Illyrian, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman architecture.
Lezhë Castle, locally known as Kalaja e Lezhës, dominates the city of Lezhë in northern Albania. Situated on a hill approximately 186 meters (610 ft) above sea level, the castle's strategic location offers panoramic views of the Lezhë fields, the Adriatic Sea, and the Drin River. The castle's history spans multiple eras, beginning as an Illyrian fortification. It was later rebuilt by the Byzantine Empire and subsequently controlled by various powers, including the Dukagjini family and the Venetian Republic. In 1444, Lezhë Castle was the site of the League of Lezhë, where Skanderbeg, Albania's national hero, united Albanian princes to resist Ottoman expansion. The Ottomans eventually captured the castle in 1478 and reconstructed it in 1521 under Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. The castle gradually lost its strategic importance and was abandoned after an earthquake in 1729. Today, Lezhë Castle stands as a cultural monument, bearing traces of Illyrian, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman architecture. Visitors can explore the ruins of Ottoman buildings, a mosque, a Roman arch in the southeastern wall tower, and an Illyrian tower on the southern wall. The castle is open to the public for a small fee and offers a glimpse into Albania's rich and turbulent past.
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain within the castle can be uneven and steep.
- Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking views of Lezhë and the surrounding landscape.
- Check the weather forecast before visiting, as it can be windy at higher elevations.
A brief summary to Lezhë Castle
- QMM2+F2X, Rruga Varosh, Lezhë District, 4501, AL
- Monday 8 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-4 pm
- Thursday 8 am-4 pm
- Friday 8 am-4 pm
- Saturday 8 am-4 pm
- Sunday 8 am-4 pm
Getting There
-
Walking
From the center of Lezhë, the castle is a moderately strenuous 30-minute walk uphill. Start from Rruga Skënderbeu in the city center and turn left onto Rruga Varosh. Follow Rruga Varosh uphill; the castle will be on your right. Be prepared for some inclines along the way.
-
Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Lezhë. A taxi ride from the city center to Lezhë Castle typically costs around 1800 ALL, including the base fare and the cost per kilometer. The ride takes approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic.
-
Driving
If driving from Tirana, follow the SH1 highway towards Lezhë. As you approach Lezhë, look for signs directing you to Lezhë Castle. Once in Lezhë, follow Rruga Varosh uphill to the castle. Parking is available near the castle entrance.
