Castle of Gjirokastra
Castle of Gjirokastra
Gjirokaster, Albania
Landmark 12th-century castle overlooking the city, with military exhibits, a clock tower & a church.
Last updated: February 11, 2026
Overview
Landmark 12th-century castle overlooking the city, with military exhibits, a clock tower & a church.
Opening Hours
Visitor Reviews
**★★★★★ Tusi Tula — a month ago
Gjirokastër Castle is one of the most iconic landmarks in southern Albania, located in the city of Gjirokastër, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here’s a detailed overview:
History
The castle dates back to the 12th century, although it was expanded in the 15th and 17th centuries under various rulers.
It has served multiple purposes: a fortress, a military garrison, and a prison during the Communist era.
The castle has witnessed many historical events, including Ottoman occupation and Albanian i
**★★★★★ Mohsin Raza — 4 months ago
Stepping into the Castle of Gjirokastër felt like entering a world of history and grandeur. The fortress, towering above the city, immediately impressed me with its scale and strategic position, offering breathtaking views of the town and the surrounding valleys.
As I explored the walls, towers, and courtyards, I was fascinated by the rich stories of battles, rulers, and centuries of heritage. The museum inside added even more depth, displaying weapons, artifacts, and historical exhibits. The C
**★★★★★ Gabriel Lopes — 5 months ago
We bought the tickets online, so we skipped the huge line at the entrance. The castle is incredible, make sure to go with enough time to explore everything calmly. It has a beautiful view and a fascinating history. Definitely worth a visit!
**★★★★★ Kohler Stevens — 6 months ago
Incredible experience! You get free range to wander through the entire castle. We spend well over two hours walking around and exploring the castle.
There is a second museum within the castle that cost extra to go into. I would recommend paying to go in, it was very informative.
**★★★★☆ Gareith Stanley — a week ago
Interesting enough if you have some spare time but the old houses are more informative if you're short on time. It's been repurposed many times over the years but originally was amazingly old. The views are expansive over the valley. €4 pp entry.
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