Overview:

Kroi i Artë Bridge is a historical bridge located in the old city of Gjirokastër in Albania. Built in the 14th century, this bridge is one of Albania’s oldest architectural monuments. The bridge is composed of three arches made of blocks of basalt. It carries the main road over the Drinos River, connecting the old city to the new city. It is also an important landmark that is seen in many travel brochures. The bridge is a popular tourist destination, with visitors often stopping to take pictures and admire its beautiful architecture. Additionally, the bridge has become a symbol of Gjirokastër and a symbol of Albanian history and culture. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Albania
Prominent Features:

The Kroi i Artë Bridge is a historical bridge located in Gjirokastër, Albania. It is made of stone and is considered to be one of the oldest bridges in the country. It was built in the late 17th century and is an example of Ottoman architecture. The bridge is 91 meters long and has five arches, making it a spectacular sight. The bridge is symbolic to the city of Gjirokastër and its symbol is seen in its buildings and artwork. The bridge is a tourist attraction and is a great spot to take pictures or to take a walk and enjoy the view. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Albania.

History:

The Kroi i Artë (English: Golden Horn) bridge, located in Gjirokastër, Albania, is a vehicular bridge completed in 2012 and is 132.8 meters long, with a width of 11.87 meters. The bridge crosses the Drino River and connects Gjirokastër with Drinovë, joining the two pillars of Gjirokastër. The project began in 2008, when the Bridge Management Unit (BMU) of the Ministry of Public Works, Transport and Communications, in collaboration with the Regional Roads Administration of South, started the process of producing the design and tender documents. The construction work began in 2010, and was completed in May 2012 with a construction cost of approximately €6 million. Funding for the project was provided by the Albanian government, and the European Bank of Reconstruction and Development. The bridge is built on the ancient overland trading route connecting to the Corfu Channel, a narrow strip of water separating Albania from the Greek Island of Corfu. The Drino river was the only major obstacle along the route, making the new bridge a welcome addition for travelers coming to and from Gjirokastër. The Kroi i Artë bridge has been a major boost to the economy of Gjirokastër by enabling improved transport infrastructure and enhanced mobility. It has also increased the accessibility of this historic city, which is rich in cultural and historical heritage. The bridge has been praised for its beauty and elegance and is a popular destination for tourists. Today, the Kroi i Artë bridge acts as a vital transportation link between Gjirokastër and the rest of the world and is an integral part of Albania's road network. It is the first bridge to span the Drino river in Gjirokastër, a testament to progress in the region. Visit one of the famous monuments of Albania with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. Kroi i Artë bridge is a stunning stone arch bridge located in Gjirokastër, Albania. 2. The bridge was constructed during Ottoman rule and stands as testament of the quality of construction during the era. 3. The bridge is about 30 meters long and 8 meters wide and is made entirely of stone. 4. It encompasses two levels, the upper one for car traffic and the lower one for pedestrians and cyclists. 5. The bridge carries a nickname, “Bridge of the Cries” due to the romantic story of a woman who used to throw stones into the Osum river to drown her sorrows. 6. In 2013, the bridge was declared a Monument of Culture of National Significance in Albania and it is now a popular tourist attraction. 7. The bridge is also a source of fishing and swimming at the point where it spans the Osum river. 8. The bridge carries a great view of islet “Kroi SHKODER” and its surrounding landscape. 9. Conservation and rehabilitation works were carried out in 2018 for the preservation of this historic monument and its importance in Albanian culture. One of the historical monuments of Albania, it tells the story of a bygone era