Overview:

Lëkurësi Castle is situated in the village of Lëkurësi, 5 km northeast of the city of Sarandë in Albania. It is a 15-20 meter high rocky hill which at one time was the centre of a castle. The castle was first built in the 4th century BC, but was later reinforced by the Venetians in the early 15th century and later by the Ottomans in the 18th century. During World War II, the castle was occupied by Italian forces, and was the site of heavy fighting between this garrison and Greek guerrillas in May of 1944. Today, the ruins of Lëkurësi Castle are a popular tourist attraction in the Sarandë region. It offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, and its special walls, towers, and ruins can be accessed via stairways which encircle the site. A few of the major attractions include an old Byzantine church, several Venetian fortifications, and a restored Ottoman water tower. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Albania
Prominent Features:

1. 14th-century Ottoman-era fortress 2. Constructed on the edge of a cliff above the Adriatic Sea 3. Features tall walls, arched openings, and two towers 4. Beaches, monasteries, springs and historical ruins nearby 5. Designated an archaeological monument in 1961 6. Offers a breathtaking view of Sarandë and Corfu, Greece 7. Hosts music, cultural and film festivals 8. Features a bar and restaurant inside the fortress 9. Serves as a music venue during summer months 10. Open to visitors daily from morning to night You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Albania.

History:

The Lëkurësi Castle, also known as the Castle of Lëkurësi, is a 14th century castle located in present-day Sarandë, Albania. The castle is believed to have been built by the despot of the Principality of Gjirokastra, Dhimitri Karomia. The Lëkurësi Castle is a fortress surrounded by tall walls and towers. It sits atop a hill overlooking the coastal city of Sarandë. The castle is rectangular in shape, with two main levels and three stories in the towers. There are several chambers and galleries within the castle walls, including a large courtyard. In 1650, the Ottomans conquered and fortified the castle, making use of its strategic position. The castle served as the home of the despot of Gjirokastra during the Middle Ages, and the site likely served as a refuge and lookout post during attacks and conquests. In 1606, the Lëkurësi Castle was captured by the Venetians and used as a garrison. In 1695, the castle was completely destroyed in a battle between the Venetians and the Ottomans. The castle remained mostly abandoned until the 19th century when it was renovated and used as a prison. In the 1930s, the castle was used as a detention camp during the Italian war of occupation. After World War II, the castle was used as an army garrison and continued to be used until the fall of the communist regime in 1991. Today, the Lëkurësi Castle is a popular tourist attraction and the city’s main landmark. It has been recently renovated and is now open to visitors. It is also the site of annual cultural events and festivals. Visit one of the famous monuments of Albania with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

: 1. Lëkurësi Castle is a 13th century castle located in Sarandë, Albania. 2. The castle was built by the ruler of modern-day Albania, Gjon Zenebishi. 3. The castle was built with strong stone walls to protect against Ottoman invasions. 4. On clear days, the castle offers spectacular views of the Ionian Sea and Corfu island. 5. The castle is surrounded by a large park with hundreds of Cypress trees and boasts a gothic style bell tower. 6. The castle is also home to a large statue of Albania’s national hero, Gjergj Kastriot Skënderbeu. 7. Lëkurësi Castle is a popular tourist attraction and hosts an annual jazz music festival in June. 8. The castle walls are decorated with Islamic carvings and Albanian sayings that provide a unique insight into the history of the region. One of the historical monuments of Albania, it tells the story of a bygone era