Gjirokaster (Gjirokastr) is a magnificent Ottoman-era city constructed out of stone in southern Albania. Houses with slate roofs, narrow alleys covered with limestone, and a castle built out of rock-hewn from the neighboring mountains. The ‘Stone City’ of Albania has a glittering splendor that glistens in the rain. Locals recognize the town as the birthplace of renowned Albanian writer Ismail Kadare. It is well known for being the location of Albania’s most notorious political prison and the birthplace of Enver Hoxha, the country’s former autocratic leader. The beautiful country has so much in it and here are the four top things you have to do in the splendid stone city of Albania, Gjirokaster.
Explore the Old Bazaar
One of the must-see attractions in Gjirokastr is the Old Bazaar, which dates from the 17th century. It is located in the city’s ancient, UNESCO-recognized old town and is known locally as Qafa e Pazarit. The classic ambiance of this cross-shaped market has not diminished in the current era. This is where you go in Gjirokastr for a true taste of Albanian culture, from the stones laid into its streets to the charming businesses and magnificent residences along with them.
Din In At Kerculla Resort
Kerculla Resort is one of the nicest places to eat in town, located along a road that snakes up a high hill not far from Gjirokastr Castle. The resort has some of the nicest views in Gjirokastr because it is situated on a hill above the city. It’s recommended to dine on one of their two outside terraces during the summer to take in the city views! If you prefer to eat indoors, they also have a fantastic indoor dining area.
Discover Gjirokastër Castle
The city’s most prominent feature, Gjirokastr Castle, is a fast, uphill walk from the Old Bazaar. Gjirokastr Fortress is another name for it. If you opt to walk, you will pass by one of the country’s 200,000 Cold War bunkers. A tunnel was rediscovered in the 1990s inside. It has 80 rooms and is located beneath the castle! Gjirokastr Castle, which has loomed over the city in various incarnations since before the 12th century, is located further up the hill. The castle that exists now is the result of various extensions and renovations, including those carried out in the 19th century by Ottoman ruler Ali Pasha. In 1932, the castle’s prison was also extended.
Pay A Visit To Skenduli House
The bazaar in Gjirokastr is a terrific place to get a sense of local culture, but there are areas where you can immerse yourself even more. Skenduli House is a great place to visit if you want to learn more about living in Gjirokastr during the 19th century. Skenduli Home is the best-preserved house in the old city of Gjirokastr. It was erected in 1823, yet it is much more than a century-old home. It also serves as an ethnographic museum, preserving 19th-century Albanian life within its confines. Nasip Skenduli, a descendant of the house’s original builders, owns the property.
