Burgajet Castle, Medieval castle ruins in Burgajet, Albania
Burgajet Castle is a fortified residence on a steep hilltop with a rectangular layout and two small wings surrounding a courtyard. The visible remains show fragments of defensive walls and watchtowers made of marble stones spread across the site at approximately 277 meters elevation.
The castle was built before 1860 and served as the birthplace of King Zog I until its destruction by Yugoslav forces in 1920. It stood as an important residence for an aristocratic family before that devastation occurred.
The castle was the power center of the Zogu family, who governed the Mat Valley as traditional feudal rulers. Visitors can still see how this place represented their authority over the local population.
The site is marked by remaining marble stones but requires a moderate uphill walk through the village of Burgajet to reach it. Wear sturdy footwear and allow time for exploring the steep terrain at your own pace.
This castle was remarkable for being the only structure in the region with glass windows, demonstrating the elevated status of its noble residents. This detail shows how rare and valuable such modern features were in the area at that time.
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