Gjirokastër Castle, Medieval fortress on a hilltop in Gjirokastra, Albania.
Gjirokastër Castle is a stone fortification situated on a rocky promontory overlooking the town below. The structure features multiple towers and substantial walls that spread across the hilltop, creating a commanding presence.
The fortress was first built in the 12th century, then significantly enlarged under Sultan Beyazid II around 1490 and later expanded by Ali Pasha in the 19th century. These successive additions show how the site remained strategically important across different periods.
The castle hosts the National Folk Festival, where traditional Albanian music and dance performances unfold across its grounds. Visitors experience regional customs and local crafts during this gathering.
The climb to reach the fortress is steep and requires sturdy footwear and reasonable fitness. It's best to bring plenty of water and arrive early in the day to avoid excessive heat and crowds.
The grounds display an American military aircraft, a T33 Shooting Star, which made an emergency landing in Albania in 1957. This plane is an unusual Cold War remnant now displayed there for visitors to see.
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