Tirana is a relatively young city. But despite this, it is surrounded by castles and ruins. Even in its very centre, visitors can see the walls of Tirana castle. And as you leave the city, in each direction there is at least one castle. The most preserved are those of Petrela and Preza, with the others in ruins. Each is a guide to the history of the Albanians. In addition to their historical and cultural values, these castles, not surprisingly as most are situated on top of beautiful hills, offer great panoramas across the capital and beyond.
The Fortress of Justinian, known simply as Tirana Castle is the only one found in the city centre. The fortress is where at one time the main east–west and north–south roads crossed, forming the heart of the town as it was then. The castle history dates back prior to 1300. The walls are 6 ...
Petrela Castleis a small but prominent old castle located only 12 km from Tirana. The castle has a rich history. Initially constructed in the 6th century AD, the present building dates back to the 15th century. During Skanderbeg’s fight against the Ottomans, Petrela Castle was under the command ...
It belongs to late antiquity, probably built over Illyrian foundations. It was discovered in 1963 and eventually inscribed in the list of the cultural monuments of Albania. The castle is located within Dajti National Park, overlooks the whole of Tirana and at an altitude of 1,100 m (3,600 feet) offers ...
The ancient castle of Persqop also known as "The Ancient town of Brysaka" is located to the south of Tirana, near Petrela Castle, built on Mount Villa (also known as the Hill of the Christians), at a strategic point near to the road from Tirana to Qafe Krabe.In the orientation tables in Petrela is named ...
Dorezi Castle is the oldest castle in the area. Located about 20 km south-west of Tirana it lies about 5 km east of Peza. This castle belongs to the 9th–4th centuries BC. The first archaeological work was carried out in 1951. Its ruins cover a high range of hills detached from the mountains at ...
It is known for its strategic location, overlooking Tirana and opposite Kruja. The castle lies close to Mother Tereza International Airport. It is a small castle, though larger than Petrela. Construction began in the 14th century and was completed in the early 15th century. The castle belonged to the ...
Ndroqi Castle is situated in suburb of Tirana, overthe hill of the Ndroqi village, in the left side of Erzen River valley. It is 387 metres above the sea. This castlebelongs to the fourth century AD, and has been part of the defense system of the city of Durres , communicating also with Tirana fortifications ...
