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Rozafa Castle: Shkodra's Sentinel

Explore Rozafa Castle in Shkodra: a historic fortress with stunning views, ancient ruins, and legendary tales of sacrifice and resilience.

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Rozafa Castle, perched on a rocky hill overlooking Shkodra, Albania, is a historic fortress with Illyrian roots. It offers panoramic views of the city, Lake Shkodra, and the surrounding rivers, steeped in legend and centuries of history.

A brief summary to Viewpoint (Rozafa Castle and Shkodra)

  • 3G22+23, Shkodër, AL

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the path to the castle is steep and rocky.
  • Visit during sunset for stunning photo opportunities with golden light over the landscape.
  • Bring water, especially during hot days, as there are limited options to purchase refreshments inside the castle.
  • Check the opening hours, as they vary depending on the season.
  • Explore the castle museum to learn more about the history of Rozafa and Shkodra.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Shkodra, Rozafa Castle is approximately a 30-minute walk. Head south, following the signs for 'Kalaja e Rozafës'. The route takes you through historic neighborhoods. Be prepared for a steep, cobblestone road leading up to the entrance. Comfortable footwear is highly recommended. Entrance fee is 400 Lek.

  • Public Transport

    Local buses run from Shkodra city center to near Rozafa Castle. Look for buses heading towards 'Bahçallek' or 'Fermentim'. A single fare costs 40 Lek. From the bus stop, it's about a 10-20 minute uphill walk to the castle entrance. Remember to wear comfortable shoes for the uphill walk. Upon arrival at the castle, purchase an entrance ticket for 400 Lek.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Shkodër. A taxi ride from the city center to Rozafa Castle typically costs around 500 Lek and takes approximately 10 minutes. It's advisable to agree on the fare with the driver before starting your journey. The taxi will drop you off near the castle entrance. Entrance fee to the castle is 400 Lek.

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Discover more about Viewpoint (Rozafa Castle and Shkodra)

Rozafa Castle, locally known as Kalaja e Rozafës, stands as a powerful sentinel overlooking Shkodra, Albania. This iconic landmark, with its origins tracing back to ancient Illyrian times, has witnessed the rise and fall of empires, bearing silent testimony to centuries of conflict and cultural transformation. The castle's strategic location, perched atop a rocky hill at the confluence of the Buna and Drin rivers, offers visitors breathtaking panoramic views of the city, Lake Shkodra, and the distant Albanian Alps. Founded by the Illyrians as early as the 9th century BCE, the castle has been rebuilt and modified by Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, and Ottomans, each leaving their mark on its architecture and history. The Venetians, in particular, significantly strengthened the fortifications, most of which are still visible today. The castle has been the site of numerous sieges, most notably the Ottoman siege in 1478-1479 and the Montenegrin siege in 1912-1913. The castle is also shrouded in a captivating legend. According to folklore, three brothers struggled to build the castle, but the walls collapsed every night. An old man advised them to sacrifice one of their wives by walling her into the structure. Rozafa, the wife of the youngest brother, was chosen. She agreed to the sacrifice on the condition that holes be left in the wall so she could continue to breastfeed her infant son. A sculpture near the entrance commemorates this tale of sacrifice and devotion. Inside the castle, visitors can explore three courtyards, connected by interior walls, and discover ruins dating back to the 4th century. Highlights include the remains of the Church of St. Stephen, which was transformed into the Mosque of Sultan Fatih during the Ottoman era, and a museum housed in a former Venetian building that showcases the castle's 4000-year history. The castle is open to visitors year-round, with extended hours during the summer months.

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