Drisht Castle, Medieval fortress in Shkodër County, Albania.
Drisht Castle is a fortress ruin located in the Shkodër region of Albania on elevated terrain. The site preserves remains of stone walls, towers, and several residential structures from different historical periods.
Byzantines built the fortress in the 13th century, and later Serbian rulers, Venetians, and Ottomans took control of the site. Ottoman forces claimed it in 1478, marking the end of its strategic importance.
The ruins showcase building styles from different periods that visitors can observe while exploring the site. Each ruling era left visible marks through its own construction methods and designs.
Reaching the castle requires either a sturdy vehicle or a hike up steep paths to the site. Visitors should expect challenging terrain and prepare accordingly for the physical demands of the ascent.
The site preserves building layers from three different cultures that blend together and show distinctly different construction methods. This layering allows visitors to observe how fortification techniques changed across centuries.
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