Dajti Castle, Archaeological site on Mount Dajti, Albania.
Dajti Castle sits on the western slope of Mount Dajti near Tirana at about 1,200 meters elevation. The remains spread across several hectares and include massive walls as well as multiple defense towers.
The fortress was built in the 6th century when Byzantine Emperor Justinian I constructed defenses against Slavic invasions. Archaeologists discovered the remains in 1963 and began uncovering layers of the past.
The ruins display a blend of Roman and Illyrian building styles visible in the steep walls and watchtowers. Visitors can still see how ancient residents used the mountain as a defensive stronghold.
Visitors can reach the site using a cable car from Tirana or by road and hiking paths to the peak. The best time to visit is during clear weather when views over the city and surrounding area are especially good.
Excavations at the site uncovered coins from the time of Emperor Tiberius II Constantine. These finds suggest that people there also engaged in metalworking and used iron tools.
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