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Gjirokastër (Albanian: [ɟiɾoˈkast:əɾ, -ra], Albanian definite form: Gjirokastra) is a city in southern Albania and the seat of Gjirokastër County and Gjirokastër Municipality. It is located in a valley between the Gjerë mountains and the Drino, at 300 metres above sea level.
- About Gjirokaster, Albania
- Admire The Houses
- Gjirokaster Castle
- The Us Air Force Jet
- The Cold War Tunnel
- Visit The Gjirokaster Museum
- Gjirokaster Old Town
- Gjirokaster Bazaar
- Take A Cooking Class
- Zekate House
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Gjirokaster is a hilltop town in southern Albania with around 62,000 inhabitants. It has well-preserved Ottoman-era architecture and stone houses. The town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is often referred to as the “City of Stone” due to its rich cultural heritage and historical significance.
The first thing that hit me was the houses. I’ve seen medieval fairy tale houses around Europe before (in France, Bosnia, and Denmark), but none like these. These two-story Ottoman houses are located in or near the bazaar and date back to the 17th and 19th centuries. They have such integrity. Albanians are proud of Gjirokaster and it’s easy to see ...
Entrance fee: 200 lek (€1.60) – an additional 200 lek to enter the museums The next place to visit in Gjirokaster is the castle. Mainly because it’s the best vantage point of the town and the entire valley. So, a little background: Gjirokaster castle is sometimes referred to as Argjiro, after a legendary princess in Albanian folklore. According to ...
Next to one of the castle towers, there’s also a recovered US Air Force jet that was shot down during the communist era. The pilot was believed to be a spy but was later sent home, safe and sound. You can spot the plane in the background in the below photo.
In the castle, you’ll find old tanks, cannons, and more artillery from bygone war times. Another attraction inside – or rather below – the castle is The Cold War Tunnel; a giant tunnel bunker used for transportation during the Cold War. Built in secret during the 1960s, it has 80 rooms and the locals didn’t know about it until the 1990s. You can bo...
Also, don’t miss the Gjirokaster Museum in the castle. It offers a deep dive into the city’s history and stories of current residents. The exhibits are engaging, and you’ll need at least 1-1.5 hours to explore. You can skip the upstairs Military Museum, though – its’ more for war history buffs. Open 8 am-5 pm in summer, 4 pm in winter, with a 200 l...
Once you’re done exploring Gjirokastër castle, you’ll be making your way back down to the Old Town. And as soon as you step onto its streets, you’ll understand why Gjirokastër is considered – by yours truly – to be the most beautiful place in Albania. Those winding, little limestone streets with a unique zig-zag snakey pattern – there’s just so muc...
So, at first, I thought Gjirokaster bazaar referred to an enclosed marketplace with artisanal workshops and tourist souvenir shops. After all, “bazaar” originates from the Persian word bāzār, which means “market”. Just like a Middle-Eastern souk. While you will find shops at Gjirokaster bazaar, it’s not a bazaar in the traditional meaning. Here, it...
One of my favorite things to do in a new country is taking a cooking class. And in Gjirokaster, it’s hosted by a local, Teta Marjeta, in her house so you’ll get the real deal. You’ll prepare a 3-course dinner, taste home-made raki, and conclude with a communal meal and wine. It’s the best way to connect with the culture and meet new people. Book he...
Entrance fee: € 1.00 The most impressive building in Gjirokastër is undoubtedly Zekate House, a majestic three-story house with a double-arched facade and twin towers. This beautiful house was built 200 years ago for a general in the Ottoman army. The house is now uninhabited and serves as a museum. Zekate House is said to be one of the most fascin...
Discover the charm and history of Gjirokaster, the City of Stone, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of a famous Albanian writer. Explore the castle, the museum, the bazaar, the houses, and more with this guide.
2 days ago · About Gjirokaster. Gjirokaster is nestled in southern Albania, in the picturesque Drino Valley, surrounded by the dramatic Gjerë Mountains. Known for its unique blend of natural beauty and historical charm, the town features a distinct atmosphere with its steep cobbled streets and striking stone houses that cascade down the hillside.
- Explore Gjirokaster on a Walking Tour. A walking tour is an amazing way to get to know a new destination, and this 3-hour walking tour is one of the best things to do in Gjirokaster.
- Horseback Riding in Vjosa National Park. Vjosa National Park is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Gjirokaster. It’s centered around the Vjosa River, which is the last wild river in Europe.
- Check out Gjirokaster Museum. If you want to learn more about the history of this cobbled town, head to one of the most popular tourist attractions in Gjirokaster.
- Take a Local Cooking Class. Another of my favorite ways to really get to know a new culture is by trying to make some traditional food of the country.
Oct 15, 2018 · Discover Gjirokastra, a UNESCO-listed town with a rich history and stunning views. Learn about its fortress, architecture, museums, day trips and more in this comprehensive guide.
Discover Gjirokastra, a magical hillside town with a castle, Ottoman-era houses and views of the Drina Valley. Learn about its history, culture and attractions from Lonely Planet's experts.
Oct 3, 2024 · Discover the UNESCO town of Gjirokastra, also known as the city of stone, with its stunning castle, bazaar, museums and houses. Learn how to get there, where to stay, what to eat and more in this comprehensive guide by a local travel blogger.
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