Overview:

Pogradec Castle, or Kalaja e Pogradecit, is a ruined castle which sits atop an isolated hill above the Debarbati river in northern Albania. The site is home to ruins from a range of diverse cultures, including Byzantium, Ottoman, and Illyrian. The castle probably originates from the Byzantine period and was most likely built by local aristocrats to protect Pogradec from external threat. The site consists of the ruins of the castle and of many other buildings, including churches, mosques, and monasteries. Much of the castle's masonry is still standing, although it is covered with foliage, making it difficult to identify the different periods of construction and architecture. Visitors to the site can enjoy spectacular views over Pogradec and Lake Ohrid from the castle's ruins. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Albania
Prominent Features:

The Pogradec Castle is a large medieval castle in Pogradec, Albania. Situated at the edge of Lake Ohrid, the castle was built in the 11th century and has gone through multiple reconstructions over the centuries. It is one of the largest surviving castles in the region and is now open as an archaeological site. The prominent features of the castle include its massive stone walls, two main towers, and the ruins of a small turret. The castle also includes two large halls and two smaller structures which would have been used for administrative and military purposes. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Albania.

History:

The Pogradec Castle, also known as the Krujë Castle, is located in Pogradec, Albania. It is a historic fortress built in the 15th century by Ottoman forces in order to protect the city from invaders. The castle passed through a series of changes over the years, including the construction of the red tower during the 16th century, which is said to be modeled after the Red Tower in Istanbul. The castle was later renovated during the 19th century by the then-ruler, Sultan Mahmud II, and was eventually destroyed during the wars of the 20th century. After its destruction, it was eventually restored during the 21st century under the direction of architect Iliaz Qorri in 2010. The site of the castle is now a popular tourist attraction and a monument to the cultural and historic significance of the city. Visitors can explore the castle grounds, which cover an entire hilltop, marvel at its impressive architecture, and learn more about its fascinating history. Visit one of the famous monuments of Albania with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. The castle of Pogradec dates back to the 4th century BC, when it was built by the ancient Illyrians. 2. It is believed that the castle was once a source of spiritual power as the Illyrians and the Paeonians who lived in the area worshipped the god Zeus at its fortress. 3. The Greeks and Romans also occupied the castle throughout their presence in the region. 4. In medieval times, the castle was used as a protective fortress during the Ottoman invasions. 5. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when Pogradec was under the rule of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia, the castle was renovated and its walls and gateways were reconstructed. 6. The castle features many exclusive tower structures, which were once used as a lookout or war-tower. 7. Today, the castle is open to the public, and offers a great insight into the history of the city and the region. Visitors can explore the castle ruins and take in the stunning views over the lake and the surrounding landscape. 8. There are actually two castles present at Pogradec, one on the left side and one on the right side of the city. 9. It is believed that the castle was once an important political and spiritual center of the Illyrian era. 10. The castles are also believed to be connected in an underground tunnel. One of the historical monuments of Albania, it tells the story of a bygone era