Overview:

Lekuresi Castle is an ancient castle situated in the Sarandë, in South of Albania. The area around it was inhabited in ancient times, although the remains of the castle mostly date back from the 17th century. The castle is located on top of a steep hill called Lekures, and offers a panoramic view of the bay and the city of Sarandë. The castle covers an area of around 5,500m2 and is thought to have been used as a summer residence by the local prefect. It is one of the largest fortifications in the country and contains several towers, walls, and guard posts. Although it has been damaged and restored several times, the castle is still in good condition and is a popular tourist attraction. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Albania
Prominent Features:

1. Tower of Kara Mahmud Bushati: This imposing fortification was built by Kara Mahmud Bushati in the late 18th century and stands at the highest point of the castle. It is a symbol of strength and has an interesting story. 2. Grand Hall: The grand hall of the castle is a large and elegant room with a grand fireplace, chandeliers and gilded furniture. This was the place where important government meetings were held and it is one of the most iconic features of the castle. 3. Fountains and Gardens: The castle boasts beautiful fountains and manicured gardens which add to its charm. 4. Bell Tower: The castle’s bell tower stands tall over the city and serves as a reminder of a time when the fortification guarded the Adriatic coast. 5. Moat: The castle’s moat helps to protect it from attackers and adds to its imposing appearance. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Albania.

History:

Lekuresi Castle is located near the southern Albanian city of Sarandë. The castle is believed to have been built in the 5th century AD, though its exact date of construction is not known. The oldest confirmed document mentioning the castle dates back to the 13th century. It was initially built to protect the inhabitants of nearby Sarandë from Ottoman forces. Throughout its history, the castle has been occupied and fought over by various armies and powers. During the 15th century, it was controlled by Ottoman forces, though it was seized by rebel forces led by Skanderbeg in 1467. It was later retaken by the Ottomans in 1537 and remained under their control until 1912 when it was officially annexed by Albania. The castle was abandoned during the years of communism in Albania, though it underwent extensive reconstruction in the 2000s. The castle today is open to visitors and is a popular tourist destination. It offers stunning views of the Adriatic coastline and the historical city of Sarandë. Visit one of the famous monuments of Albania with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. The ancient Lekuresi Castle is located in the Town of Sarandë in Albania. 2. The castle was built by Ali Pasha, the Ottoman ruler of the region in the 19th century. 3. It was the first fortification in the region and served as a major defensive point of the town. 4. The castle is composed of three defensive levels known as kalaja, pjesa e mesme, and pjesa e siperme. 5. The castle is situated on a steep hilltop with a commanding view of the town and the Ionian Sea. 6. The castle is now open to the public and offers a wonderful view of Sarandë and the surrounding landscape. 7. In 2004, the castle was further restored and is now a protected historical monument. One of the historical monuments of Albania, it tells the story of a bygone era