Overview:

Petrela Castle is a historic fortified castle located in the town of Petrelë, in central Albania. It is situated atop a large hill overlooking the Tirana Plain, and is believed to have been built in the 13th century AD by the Thopia family and expanded in the 16th century by the Kastrioti family. The restored castle is now a popular tourist destination in the country, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can explore the castle's many towers, battlements, ramparts, and ruins, as well as enjoy traditional Albanian coffee in the castle's courtyard. There are also events and festivals organized throughout the year at the castle, including concerts, theatrical and opera performances, and traditional festivals. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Albania
Prominent Features:

Petrela Castle is an impressive medieval stronghold on a hilltop overlooking the lake Farka within the commune of Petrelë, Elbasan County, Albania. It is a testament to the dogged determination of Albanian leaders, such as Skanderbeg, to resist the occupation of the Ottoman Empire. Its thick stone walls protected its inhabitants from frequent raids by Ottoman forces in the 15th century. The castle has two entrances, one from the east and the other from the west, and one tower that offers a magnificent view of the nearby village and lake. The castle has a large courtyard for conducting military parades. It also has two churches, the Church of St. Mary and the Church of St. Demetrius. The main residence is located in the eastern part of the castle, and has two levels. The first level includes a chapel with a bell tower, a guard room, and living quarters for the commander. The second level includes an upper hall where a balcony with stone sculptures overlooks the courtyard. Today, Petrela Castle is a protected monument and is visited by many tourists. It is also home to a restaurant, offering local cuisine and was transformed into a film set for the Albanian action movie, The Siege of Fire. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Albania.

History:

Petrela Castle is a castle located in the Petrelë village of Albania, in the eponymous commune of Tirana County. The castle dates back to the ancient Illyrians and was later conquered by the Ottoman Empire. During the 15th century, the castle became the residence of Ali Pasha Tepelena, an Albanian Ottoman military commander. He built the three-story palace, known as Ali Pasha’s Hedder, inside the castle. In the 19th century, the castle was the center of a fierce battle between Ali Pasha and local Albanians seeking independence from the Ottoman Empire. During the fight, the castle was damaged, but was later restored. In the 20th century, Petrela Castle was used as a prison by the communist regime in Albania. After the fall of communism, the castle was renovated and reopened to the public in 1995. Today, Petrela Castle is a tourist attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into the history of Ottoman Albania. Visitors can explore the castle’s old palaces, defensive fortifications, and a church that dates back to the 14th century. The castle is also home to numerous artifacts, including coins, armor, and weapons. Visit one of the famous monuments of Albania with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. Petrela Castle was built during the late 11th century by the Progoni family, the first dynasty of the Principality of Arbër. 2. Petrela Castle was the stronghold of the powerful Petrela feuding family who defended it against enemies for centuries. 3. It was the only castle on the outskirts of the capital to remain standing during the 15th-century war between the Ottoman Empire and the forces of Skanderbeg. 4. Petrela Castle is one of the few medieval castles in Albania and the Balkans still standing, in good condition, and open to visitors. 5. Petrela Castle is located in the picturesque countryside of Tirana County in central Albania and is a popular tourist site. 6. Petrela Castle was used by the national hero Skanderbeg as a refuge during his struggle against the Ottoman Empire. 7. The castle has four imposing gates, two inner passages, and hidden tunnels used to protect the occupants during times of conflict. 8. Petrela Castle can be reached by taking a 10-minute walk from Petrelë village, on the outskirts of Tirana. One of the historical monuments of Albania, it tells the story of a bygone era