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Burgu i Kalasë: Shkodër's Ottoman Prison

Explore Burgu i Kalasë, an Ottoman-era prison inside Rozafa Castle in Shkodër, Albania, with panoramic views and historical insights.

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Burgu i Kalasë, or Castle Prison, is an Ottoman-era prison within Shkodër Castle, offering a glimpse into Albania's past. Explore the prison's remains and enjoy panoramic views of Shkodër and the surrounding landscape.

A brief summary to Burgu i Kalasë

  • 2FWV+J5, Shkodër, AL

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain within Rozafa Castle is uneven with rocky paths.
  • Visit in the late afternoon for the best lighting for photographs and to avoid the midday heat.
  • Combine your visit with a tour of Rozafa Castle to fully appreciate the area's history.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the entrance to Rozafa Castle, walk towards the castle grounds. Burgu i Kalasë is located within the castle area. Follow the path towards the right side of the castle; the prison ruins will be on your right. This walk should take approximately 5-10 minutes.

  • Taxi

    From the center of Shkodër, a taxi to Rozafa Castle will cost approximately 800 Lek. From the castle entrance, follow the walking directions to Burgu i Kalasë. Taxis are readily available in Shkodër. You can download the VrapOn Taxi App. A taxi from Shkoder to Tirana airport is around $60.

  • Driving

    From the center of Shkodër, head northwest on Rruga 28 Nëntori towards Rruga Vangjel Dule. Continue onto Rruga Gjon Buzuku and take the first exit at the roundabout onto Rruga Skenderbeg. Follow the signs for Shkodra Castle (Kështjella e Shkodrës), which is near Burgu i Kalasë. Parking is available near the castle entrance. Parking is limited and may be subject to a small fee.

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Discover more about Burgu i Kalasë

Burgu i Kalasë, meaning Castle Prison, is a historical landmark located within the Rozafa Castle in Shkodër, Albania. Constructed during the Ottoman era, it served as a prison, providing insight into the region's tumultuous past. Visitors can explore the remnants of the prison walls, offering a tangible connection to the stories of those who were once confined within. The prison's architecture reflects Ottoman engineering and design. From the prison site, you can enjoy panoramic views of Shkodër and the surrounding mountains. Rozafa Castle, also known as the Castle of Shkodër, dates back to ancient Illyrian times and has been controlled by Romans, Venetians, and Ottomans. Within the castle, there are also ruins of a mosque, the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Mosque, built in 1479 over the remains of St. Stephen's Cathedral.

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