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Rozafa Castle: A Sentinel of Shkodra

Explore Rozafa Castle in Shkodra: a historic fortress with stunning views, ancient ruins, and the legendary tale of Rozafa.

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Rozafa Castle, an iconic landmark of Shkodra, Albania, stands on a rocky hill overlooking the confluence of the Buna and Drin rivers. With Illyrian roots dating back to the 4th century BCE, it has been a silent witness to centuries of history, legends, and cultural shifts. Its imposing stone walls offer panoramic views of the city, Lake Shkodra, and the Albanian Alps.

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  • 3F2X+5RJ, Shkodër, AL

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain inside the castle is uneven, with many steps and rocky paths.
  • Visit the Museum of Rozafa Castle to learn more about the history of the castle and the city of Shkodër.
  • Bring water and snacks, especially during hot weather, although there is a cafe inside the castle.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Shkodra, the castle is approximately a 3km walk. The walk takes you through historic neighborhoods, offering a glimpse into daily life. Be prepared for an uphill stretch on a cobblestone path as you approach the castle.

  • Public Transport

    Local buses run from Shkodra city center to near Rozafa Castle. Look for the bus lines that go to Bahçallëk or Fermentim; the bus fare is around 40 Lek. From the bus stop, it's about a 10-20 minute walk uphill to the entrance.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Shkodra. A taxi ride from the city center to Rozafa Castle takes about 10 minutes. Expect to pay around 300 Lek for the ride.

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Perched on a strategic hilltop, Rozafa Castle is a powerful symbol of Shkodra's rich past. Originally built by the Illyrians, the castle has seen Roman, Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman influences, each leaving their mark on its architecture and history. The castle's strategic position, overlooking the meeting point of three rivers, made it a coveted prize for empires throughout history. The castle is best known for the legend of Rozafa, a tale of sacrifice and devotion. According to folklore, to prevent the castle from collapsing, one of the builders' wives, Rozafa, was walled into the structure. She agreed, on the condition that she could still care for her infant son, with parts of her body remaining exposed. A sculpture near the entrance commemorates this legend. Inside the castle, visitors can explore the remnants of different civilizations and a small museum detailing the castle's history. The best-preserved structure is the Church of St. Stephen, which was transformed into the Mosque of Sultan Fatih during the Ottoman period. The castle's walls and towers offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Exploring the castle grounds allows you to appreciate the strategic importance and the beautiful views over the city with a mountain range as a backdrop. On one side, you can see Lake Skadar, and on the other, farmlands and the three rivers Buna, Drin, and Kiri.

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