Rodoni Castle, Medieval fortress on Cape Rodon, Albania
Rodoni Castle is a medieval fortress on Albania's coast that extends roughly 400 meters along the shoreline with defensive towers at each corner. The structure sits directly on the Adriatic Sea and displays the typical design of coastal defenses from this period.
Construction began in 1450 under Skanderbeg's direction as a strategic maritime defense point for the region. After Ottoman forces destroyed it, the Venetian Republic rebuilt the structure in 1500 and added their own architectural elements to the existing design.
The fortress stands as a Cultural Monument of Albania, embodying the strategic importance that coastal defense held for medieval rulers in this region. The nearby church ruins show how religious and military functions were intertwined in the daily life of those who lived here.
The outer walls and some towers remain accessible to visitors, though erosion from sea waves causes ongoing damage to the structure. Access is along the coastline and visitors should wear sturdy footwear since the ground is uneven throughout the site.
Beneath the fortress ruins lie the remains of Saint Peter's Church, showing how this defensive structure also served as a spiritual center for those living here. This blend of military function and religious community life is still evident in the preserved foundations.
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