Balshaj Tower: A Sentinel of Rozafa Castle
Explore the historic Balshaj Tower within Rozafa Castle, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into Albania's rich past.
The Balshaj Tower, nestled within the historic Rozafa Castle in Shkodër, Albania, stands as a remarkable vestige of the region's past. Dating back to the 14th century, this tower offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in Albanian history while enjoying panoramic views.
A brief summary to Balshaj Tower
- Rozafa Castle, Rruga Kalasë, Shkodër, 4000, AL
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain inside the castle is uneven with rocky paths.
- Bring water, especially during the summer months, as it can get hot.
- Visit the Castle of Shkodra Museum to learn more about the history.
Getting There
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Walking
From the entrance of Rozafa Castle, walk towards the pathway leading to Balshaj Tower. The route is straightforward and takes about 10-15 minutes, offering views of the surrounding area. Note that the road is rocky and can be slippery.
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Public Transport
Take a public bus from Shkodra city center to Rozafa Castle. From the bus stop, it's about a 10-20 minute walk uphill to the castle entrance. Once inside the castle, follow the pathway to Balshaj Tower. Bus fare is around 40 Lek. From Tirana, you can take a bus to Shkodër for $13-$17.
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Taxi
Take a taxi from Shkodra city center directly to the entrance of Rozafa Castle. From there, walk to Balshaj Tower. The taxi ride takes about 10 minutes. A taxi ride can cost approximately 500-700 Lek.
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