We wish to greet you most sincerely, The country is also the home of happy that you have choose to visit several castle ranges starting since our country. the Illyrian period until the Middle Age. is an attractive tourist destination, not only because of its A complex of Byzantine and post varying landscapes, but also due to its Byzantine churches, monasteries rich cultural and historical treasures. with valuable frescoes and icons, old bridges, mosques and other Albania is located in a very important monuments will enrich your visit in section of Balkan Peninsula, facing Albania. the “ancient ” and on the way from this “capital of the world” in that The importance of Culture in Albania time toward the Byzantium (Istanbul). been honored by the UNESCO, which has included three of the Many conquerors passed through country places in its World Cultural this region, leaving the traces of Heritage List. their culture. The traces of Hellenes, Romans, Byzantines, Ottomans, The particularity and uniqueness Venetians and modern Italians, are of Albania is its permanent live more or less visible in nowadays. connection to its rich past and its cultural heritage, while it keeps Funs of archaeology will marvel at vibrantly in peace with contemporary the mystic atmosphere of Burtinti or life, echoing its spiritualism and its will enjoy the beautiful panorama presence in the European cultural of the ancient Apolonia in the environment. western plain of Albania. They will have the opportunity to touch the In this brochure you will find a ruins of many other objects and to summary of the most important experience our Archaeological parks. object to be visited during your stay in our country. The typical architecture of and Gjirokastra have been highly evaluated during the centuries by different visitors who passed through Welcome! Albania. ALBANIAN CULTURAL HERITAGE A selection of the most important cultural monuments, in twelve

SHKODRA COUNTY

Rozafa Castle The Tumuli Burials of Shtoj Sarda The “Lead” Mosque Historic Museum Marubi Atelier of Photography SHKODRA COUNTY

Shkodra is one of the most significant an- cient cities in northwestern Albania. It was founded in the 4th century B.C. as the centre of the Illyrian tribe of the Labeates. Under the rule of the Illyrian king Gent, it became the capital of the Illyrian kingdom. Coins from this period of prominence have been discovered in Shkodra. In 168 B.C., it was occupied by the Romans and eventually becoming part of Claudius empire. In 395 A.C., Shkodra became the centre of the Byzantine Prevalis province, following centuries of substantial political power, Shkodra came under Serbian rule in 1040 A.C.

Due to its Mediterranean location and its geographical proximity to some of the main centers of the world civilization, a number of important archaeological discoveries have been made in Albania. The sites in the North as well as in the South are great tourism destinations for those who are interested in ancient history.

The Tumuli Burials of Shtoj

The Tumuli Burials of Shtoj. The Plain of Shtoj is situated about 5 km to the north- east of the city of Shkodra, in the vicinity of the villages of Boks and Dragoç, on the western side of the River. The excavated tumuli, or burial mounds, appear to have been used for centuries; from the Early Bronze Age until the Late Iron Age. Most of the unearthed features of these tumuli are artifacts of the Iron Age, specifically from the 7th - 5th centuries B.C.

6 SHKODRA COUNTY

The most important monument to visit in Shkodra is the , which rises on a rocky hill to the west of Shkodra. It is surrounded by the waters of three rivers, Buna, Drini and Kiri. Rozafa is one of the major castles in Albania and the most important tourist attraction in Shkodra. The castle dates back to Illyrian era, when the Latin historian Titus Livius named it “the stronghold of the Labeats” (Illyrian tribe on the shores of Lake Shkodra). The Illyrian queen, Teuta, used it as a base in the war against Rome.

The Clock Tower, “Kulla e Inglizit”

Rozafa Fortress

7 SHKODRA COUNTY

Mesi Bridge. At northeast of Shkodra, The form and the direction of the track where river divides the fields from the were defined from the cliff’s massif and hillside of Drishti and the Cukali’s highland, the water flow variations. The track was there is a stone bridge with many arches done with causeway and reaches a length that is named after the village near it. The of about 120 meters. It is sustained by monument is one of the biggest of its kind 13 cantilevers and it makes a turn 5 m in Albania, constructed around the 18th away from the central cantilever in a 15 century by Mehmet Pasha Bushtalliu, who degree angle. The arch is combined with governed his province winsomely by two discharger windows, which differently assuring this important port region an from the arch don’t have a circle form. The intensive trade development with the west. replacement of the old bridge, which often The bridge made possible the transport of was submerged from the river’s flow, added carriages and agricultural products from other cantilevers at both of the two sides. the farmers living in the highland area to The bridges width is 3.4 meters and the the Adriatic coast. track has the form of a staircase

8 SHKODRA COUNTY

In the city of Shkodra you may visit also the The ruins of a castle dating back on the Historic Museum and the Marubi Atelier 6th - 8th century B.C., are found on the island. of Photography. The island’s main attraction is the resi- dence of the Dukagjini family (one of the most important Albanian feudal families at the time), belonging to the 11th century. Among the remains are the defense walls, church ruins and the gate to the Dukagjini palace. Sarda is a very picturesque location.

The “Lead” Mosque was built in 1773 by Mehmet Pasha Bushati and is one of the most prominent cultural and religious monuments in the city of Shkodra, located behind the Rozafa Castle. To be noticed is the architectural similarity with the Blue Mosque in Istanbul, which differs The ruins of the medieval town of Sarda the unique monument from the other are found in an island, located on the mosques constructed and conceived based artificial lake of Vau i Dejës. The lake on a typical Arabic architectural style. covers an area of 24.7 hectares. Sarda is on the Shurdhahu Island, 35 km away from Shkodra. Sarda, at the island of Shurdhahu

9 The Historic Museum LEZHA COUNTY

Lezha Castle The Memorial of Scanderbeg The Church of The Church of St. Anthony of Padua in Laç LEZHA COUNTY

The Lezha Castle is located on top of a 186 meter high hill, to the east of town. The castle originates from Illyrian times. In 1440 it was reconstructed by the Venetians, and in 1522, after the Ottoman conquest, it was also rebuilt by the latter. The castle bears traces of Illyrian, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman architecture.

The Memorial of Scanderbeg. It is constructed at the burial place of Scanderbeg. It it inaugurated in the year 1981 over the ruins of the Church of San Nikolas in the town of Lezha. After the invasion of Lezha from the ottomans they destroyed the church and the tomb of Scanderbeg too. The church was reconstructed in the beginning of XX Century. Inside the memorial are Interesting places to visit are the ruins of displayed the emblems of Feudal Families the Ottoman buildings inside the castle, of Albanian during the period of the mosque, the tower of the south-eastern Scanderbeg . There is also a copy of his wall with a Roman arch, and the Illyrian sword and helmet. tower on the southern wall. The Lezha castle is a cultural monument. The castle offers a beautiful view of the Lezha fields and the .

The helmet of Scanderbeg

12 LEZHA COUNTY

The Church of St. Anthony of Padua in Laç (Kisha e Shën Anoit). This church is located close to the town of Laçi, (3 km far away). The Church of Saint Anthony of Padua It’s name is for the honor of Saint Anthony of Padua. He is a catholic saint who was born in Lisbon and who died in Padua. This The Church of Rubik. The church of Rubik church is famous for the biggest catholic is located in the top of a rocky hill pilgrimage held in Albania. The peak of this overlooking the small town of Rubik in ceremony is organized at 13 of June. This northwestern part of Albania. The church church is build up in the year 1557. represents one of the most important reli- gious monument of XII - XIII centuries. It was finished to build up in 1272. The unique values of the church are the wall frescoes of Byzantine style. The Rubik church served as Benedictine Abbey and Franciscan monastery.

Saint Anthony of Padua

13 Th e Memorial of Scanderbeg DIBRA COUNTY

Grazhdani Castle Ethnographic Museum of Dibra Historic Museum of DIBRA COUNTY

Grezhdani Castle. This castle is located 11 km in southeast of the town of Peshkopia, not far from the village of Maqellarë. It is proclaimed as historical monument since the year 1963. This castle belongs to the IV century during the late roman period. This monument has an area of 34 hectares. During the middle ages it was supposed to be the Stefigradi castle, which was under the control of national hero Scanderbeg. It has a strategic position linking the region of Dibra with Kosova and Macedonia. The United States Grezhdani Castle government has given a grant for its preservation. The Ethnographic Museum of Dibra. Historic Museum of Mat. It is opened It is located in “Elez Isufi” boulevard in in the year 1983 in the town of Burreli. the town of Peshkopia. The objects of This museum it gives a description of this museum are housed in a house with historical records of Mati region. traditional architecture. There are round The most interesting object is a layout of 2.000 objects displayed to the visitors. powder production, for which the region The items include a complex of national of Mati has been well mentioned. folk dresses, rugs and carpets, different arms since the Illyrian period, coins etc.

The typical albanian house (kulla), close to Klosi

16 KUKËSI COUNTY

The towers of The Turbe of Dervish Luzha KUKËSI COUNTY

The towers of Mic Sokoli and Sali Mani in Bujan. This two traditional towers are located in the village of Bujan, few km south of . They are cultural monuments. The village of Bujan is mentioned as a dwelling place since the XIV century. Mic Sokoli was born in Bujan. He was a notable fighter of the Albanian . He died in the battle of war against the ottoman forces in 1881. The next tower of Sali Mani is the place where the Conference of Bujan is held during the Second World War. The museum of Tropoja

In this county there are other typical Albanian towers (kulla), especially in the region of Hasi (north of Kukës). The tower of Kurpali, the tower of Avdul Qerimi in the village of Helshan, the tower of Gjonajve in the village of Kostur, the tower of Dem Zenuni in the village of Vranisht and another tower in the village of Gajrep.

You may visit also the Turbe of Dervish Luzha in the village of Luzha, located in southeast of Bajram Curri. This is a religions monument of bektashi sect .

An Illyrian settlement has been unearthed in Rosujë, close to Bujan, (Tropoja District). The excavations brought to the light a fortified settlement. Rosuja has been inhabited since the second millenium B.C. until the V century A.D. A lot of gold and silver coins, tools and weapons are fond there.

18 DURRËSI COUNTY

Ancient Durrachium Albanopolis Early Christian Basilica of Shën Mëhill The Bazaar of Kruja The Ethnographic Museum of Kruja DURRËSI COUNTY

The earliest historical reference to the city Epidamnos was involved in the of Durrës is from 627, B.C.E. The modern Peloponnesian War, and following city is built on top of the ruins of the the war the name was changed to ancient Epidamnos or Dyrrachion, which Dyrrachion. The war led to many political became known as Dyrrachium in the and architectural changes in the city. Roman period. According to Thucydides, Trade with the flourished during the city was colonized by Corcyreans the ensuing years. Many Illyrian tombs and Corinthians, who named the city are discovered in the city cemeteries, Epidamnos. The founder was Phalius, from indicating that this period of time was Corinth and a descendant of Heracles. The characterized by a significant cultural earliest coins of Epidamnos, dating back exchange and that the people were from the first half of the 5th century B.C.E., moving freely between the regions. were marked with symbols of Corinthian Dyrrachium was the battlefield between origin. Another account, by the historian the legions of Caesar and Pompey Appian, indicates that a non-Greek king during the Civil War of 49 - 48, B.C.E. The named Epidamnos lived in the area before city sustained damages as a result. In the arrived. He built the first city the year 30 B.C.E., Dyrrachium became a and named it after himself. Dyrrhachos was Roman colony and was named Colonia his grandson and the city was later named Iulia Augusta Dyrrachinorum. after him.

20 DURRËSI COUNTY

Most of the excavations begun in the 1960s and most of them are ongoing, allowing observers a rare opportunity to view an archaeological excavation in progress. One of the most interesting finds in the city is “Bukuroshja e Durrësit”, (The Beauty of Durrës) mosaic, housed in the National Historic Museum in . The mosaic dates back from the 4th century B.C.E., surviving as a wonderful example from this period. In the 9th century C.E., the city entered into a turbulent period. During the 2nd century C.E. the city’s status as a major trade center was further enhanced by the construction of the Via Egnatia, a roadway linking the Adriatic with Thessaloniki and later, with . The largest of all public buildings constructed in Dyrrachium during the 1st and 2nd centuries C.E. is the amphitheater, with a capacity estimated between 15,000 - 20,000 people, situated near the center of the modern city. Other important archaeological finds are the public baths dating back from the 2nd century CE, the remains of a 15km long aqueduct built during the reign of Hadrian, the Byzantine Normans attacked the city in 1071 and era walls, and the round forum-macellum, then again in 1081 C.E., subsequently built in the 5th - 6th centuries, C.E. attacks by Venetians and later, Ottomans, threatened the city’s very existence. In the city of Durrës you may also visit the Ar- chaeological and Ethnographic Museums.

21 DURRËSI COUNTY

Early Christian Basilica of Shën Mëhill (Saint Michael) in . The ruins of the St. Michael Basilica (Bazilika e Shën Mëhillit) were discovered during an archaeological expedition in 1974, which took place 6 km away from the modern city of Durrës. The church is notable for its architectural style, which features three naves, an atrium on the west side, and an impressive mosaic, covering a 54 m² surface. The mosaic is almost intact and survives in a surprisingly good condition. Not far from the area some sculptural objects dating back to the 5th - 6th century C.E. were discovered. Many unearthed coins found around the area, indicate that the settlement was in use from 5th - 14th century C.E. In 1081, the Byzantine soldiers fleeing from the Norman invasion sought refuge in this church, which later was burnt to the The Bazaar of Kruja is under protection ground by the invaders. since 1961, preserving the rich characteristics of traditional Albanian markets of the 18th - 19th centuries. The Market of Kruja covers a wide area, from the center of the city to western gate of the Castle. Along the road shops in ranges, subjoin the land developing with voluminous stone blocks, being underfoot and rarely with cellar or with pairs of stairs. The roofs are made of wood, covered with tiling to protect the exposed products and the shoppers. The shops have a little space by the road, used by the craftsmen for working and exhibiting their products in front of the costumers. Nowdays the original wooden facade of The Market of Kruja are very well preserved. This market is famous abroad for its diversity and for the eldest forms of merchandising, playing a special role in Albanian culture and tradition.

22 DURRËSI COUNTY

Ethnographic Museum of Kruja is one of the most visited museum in the country. Is housed inside the walls of castle of Kruja and it is known as one of the most organized museums of Albania. It is opened in 1989 in a traditional house of notable Toptani family, built up in 1794. Albanopolis The construction is classified as “the first (Zgërdhesh). class building’ it is big house with two floor The ancient town is and with a total of 15 rooms together with located in the vicinity of the modern town a garden. We would like to stress that 90 of Kruja. It has been hypothesized that the per cent of the objects are displayed in Illyrian castle of Zgërdhesh may actually this museum are original. Some of these be the site of the ancient city, Albanopolis, objects are 500 years old. Here the visitor capital of the Albans, from whom the will have the opportunity to see the “guest present day country is named. The city room” and “living room” (with a separate was built on a hill and covers an area of section of women) “the children room “, approximately 10 ha. Protective walls once “the turkish bath” , the kitchen with its measuring 1,400 m but presently only 90 m equipment, olive oil processing tools, the are visible and survive relatively intact. The smithy etc. In this museum there are also large acropolis dominates approximately displayed the different clothes. There are one third of the area that was once both Catholic and Moslem costumes. enclosed within the walls. Among the items Pottery, wood works. Silk, cotton and wool unearthed at the site is the small marble works are displayed. In the county of statue of Artemis, which is particularly Durrësi you may visit the Scanderbeg beautiful. The ancient city flourished Museum of Kruja, housed inside the castle. for three or four centuries but then was You may visit the church of Saint Anthony eventually abandoned around the second in Rodon and the ruins of a castle, also in century C.E. Rodon.

23 The Amphitheater of Durrësi The Amphitheater of Durrësi

The Përsqop Fortress The Tirana Mosaic Kapllan Pasha’s Turbe (Tomb) Preza Castle The Tunners bridge (Ura e Tabakeve) National Historic Museum Archaeological Museum The Mosque of Ethem Bey Ethnographic Museum of Kavaja Bashtova Castle TIRANA COUNTY

The Përsqop Fortress is located south of Tirana, near Petrela castle. Perched atop the Vila Mountain, this fortress may have once been used by the inhabitants of Petrela Castle. The construction of the initial structure appears to have been initiated by the Illyrians and eventually expanded by the Romans. Remnants of an aqueduct are situated to the northeast of the fortification.

The Tirana Mosaic is found on Naim Frashëri Street. It is the oldest object found in Tirana, and it is thought to have been part of the floor of a Roman villa from the 3-rd century A.D. Later the place was used as a site for the construction of a paleo- Christian church. It is also known by the name of “The mosaic of the Church of Saint George’s Spring“.

The Tunners bridge (Ura e Tabakeve) it is a small stone bridge located in “Jeanne D’Arc” boulevard in Tirana. The bridge is 7,5 meter high. It was called also as Saint George bridge. Today is a restored monument , built in the first half of XIX century.

In Tirana you will have the opportunity to visit the biggest and the most important museums in Albania as are the National Historic Museum and the Archaeologi- cal Museum, the Mosque of Ethem Bey, the walls of Justinian Castle with newly excavations, etc. In the region of Kavaja you may visit also the Church of Çeta near the village of Zig Xhafaj and the Ethnographic Museum of Kavaja.

26 TIRANA COUNTY

Kapllan Pasha’s Turbe (Tomb) is located on “28 Nëntori” Street in Tirana. It is part of a monumental cemetery complex of the first Tirana Mosque, which was destroyed during the Second World War. The complex included six other monumental graves of the same type, but with varying dimen- sions. The only tomb remaining today is that of Kapllan Pasha, a former ruler of Tirana. The tomb is a monumental grave with an octagonal structure and 4 m high. The Kapllan Pasha’s remains were later exhumed and reburied in Istanbul.

The Preza Castle overlooks the village with the same name and is located on a hilltop. It is a small castle the construction of which started in the 14th century and was completed in the early 15th century and belonged to the Topias, a local feudal family. The castle has been declared a ‘monument of culture’. It has four towers, one in each corner. The clock tower was erected around 1800-1850. It is known for its beautiful location, overlooking the Tirana plain. The castle is quite close to the Mother Theresa International Airport. A restaurant and other service facilities are found inside the castle.

The Bashtova Castle is situated close to the Bashtova village, about 3-4 km to the north The Bashtova Castle of the Shkumbini River estuary. The castle was built in the 15th century and was used by the Venetians. In the past the Bashtova region was known as a river harbour on the Shkumbini River and as a centre for the export of grains. The castle has a rectangu- lar shape, 60 x 90 meters. The western part of the castle was rebuilt in the 18th century. Its walls are 9 meters high.

27 Petrela Castle ELBASANI COUNTY

The Elbasani Castle The Monastery of Saint John Vladimir The Roman road station of Ad Quintium The church of Saint Nicolas in Shelcan The Ethnographic Museum of The Peqini Caslte ELBASANI COUNTY

The Elbasani Castle. It’s a field castle in the city of Elbasan. It is firstly referred by Cristobel, Second Mehemet historian. In XVIII century, the city was visited from ottomans chronicler, Evlia Celepiu, who described in details the castle. During Austrian evasion the castle became object of full studies. The Austrian’s archaeologists, Prashniker and Shcober, who visited the castle during First World War and noticed that under medieval walls has fortifications of antique period. The castle has quadran- gular shape with 308 x 48 m dimensions. Today we keep saved only 8 towers from 26 that have been in the very beginning of its construction. During the late antique period the city within the castle named Skampini, started its life as inhabited centre in so called “Egnatia” street. The Monastery of Saint John Vladimir The reconstruction of castle is done by (Shën Gjon Vladimiri) in Shijon. Turkeys for strategic purposes. Even today This monastery is located only 4 km away the castle is still habituated. Inside her we form Elbasan. It was build up in the year can still find very important Muslimism cult 1381 by Albanian prince Karl Topia, who objects as well as Christians ones. brought here the remaints of Saint John Vladimir. The Saint John Vladimir was the Duke of Krajina (Montenegro). He was declared a saint and it has a wide fame in Balkan peninsula. For his honour a big pilgrimage was organized in this monastery until 1967 when the communist regime closed by force the religious institutions all over the country. Nowadays this pilgrimage is organized for each 3-4 June. This monastery has been a very important cultural centre for , with a very rich library. Unfortunately a part of monastery was burned during the Second World War by Nazi Forces. The monumental gate of the monastery, carved in stone is actually preserved in National Historic Museum in Tirana.

30 ELBASANI COUNTY

The Roman road station of Ad Quintium is located in village in the vicinity of the modern city of Elbasan. The excava- tions here are ongoing. Based on the con- struction techniques found, this site dates from the 2nd - 4th centuries C.E.

In the county of Elbasan you may visit the Ethnographic Museum of Elbasan, the Peqini Caslte (XV century), the churches of Good Friday (Shën e Premtes) in Valësh (the region of ) and the Church of Saint Nicolas (XVIII century) in Grabova, The church of Saint Nicolas in Shelcan Gramsh. (Kisha e Shën Nikollës). This church is located in the village of Selcan in the region of Shpati, south-east of Elbasan. This monument has valuable frescoes painted by Onufri, the famous Albanian painter of XVI century, .

31 The “Naziresha” Mosque KORÇA COUNTY

The Tumuli Burials of Kamenica The Monumental Tombs of “Selca e Poshtëme” The mosaics of Lin The Ristozi Church of The Churches of Voskopoja The Churches of Vithkuqi Goliku Bridge The Mosque of Ilias Bey Mirahori The Museum of Medieval Arts The Island of Maligradi Boboshtica KORÇA COUNTY

The Tumuli Burials of Kamenica. Kamenica is situated in the southern part of Korça, along the national road linking Korça with Erseka. This is one of the most important representative monuments of the Albanian prehistory. Visiting the site you will have the chance to get acquainted with the life of the prehistoric community, in the period between XIII-VI centuries B.C.

The Monumental Tombs of Selca e The basilica, where the mosaics are to be Poshtëme (Lower Selca). The 2,400 year found, is located in the village of Lin, in a old tombs are located 40 km from the distance of 22 km north of .. modern city of Pogradec. Selca was a town They dates back to VI century A.D. and founded by the Illyrian tribe of Desartes have different motives (floral, geometrical in the 6th century BC. It is thought that etc.). They are similar with other mosaics Pelion was the residence of Illyrian king Klit found in Durrës. located in Selca. The settlement reached its greatest prominence in 3rd - 4th centuries, BC, when its protective, surrounding walls encircled an area of 3 hectares. Five monumental tombs in Ionic style have been excavated at this archaeological site. Four of the carved tombs are located inside tunnels. Although examples of these types of tombs can be found throughout southern , few are known to exist in the Balkans. It is supposed that vast treasures have been buried inside the tombs.

34 KORÇA COUNTY

Goliku Bridge is part of the medieval bridges with a hunch, or hump upon the main cantilever. It lift up on two circled vaults that are divided from a discharger window. Along the causeway the bridge has a length of 37 meters and the vault latitude is 2,8 meters. The big vault has a light area of 7,4 meter and at height from the water of 9.4 meters, and a latitude of 90 centimeters. At the big vault’s end, are situated the holes with 20x20 centimeters, for the gripping of the crib’s balk. The right vault has an opening of 6.3 meters and a thickness of 75 centimeters. The discharger window has an opening of 1,2 meters and The Ristozi Church of Mbroje in Korça, is heightens about 3 meters. The causeway composed by the naos, a porch that lies was done with river stones, with brace in the western and in the southern part. girdles each 1,2 meters and have a right The church planimetry is an inscribed incline of 16%, and 11% left incline. The cross-type. In the eastern wall we find the vaults were done with scale stone and the semicircular abside, with an arched nike. front walls with limy and stuff stones. Two other nikes, reaching the ground, are situated in the southern and northern wall. The church has two entrance portals, one in the southern part, and the other in the eastern part. In the junction point of the cross’s beams, in a podium, an equiangular tumbler lifts up. According to the building techniques and its forms, it is thought that the church is likely to have been built during the 14th century.

35 KORÇA COUNTY

The Churches of Voskopoja. Voskopoja is The Church of Saint Michael (Shën a mountain village, perched at the height Mëhilli), 1726 painted by Zoografi brothers. 1200 meters above sea level, 21 km west of Korça. Once upon a time it was a promi- nent city with 24 churches and monaster- ies, culminating in the middle of the 18th century. Only seven of these twenty-four churches survive nowadays.

The Church of Saint Athanas (Shën Thana- si), together with the cemetery, 1724. The church was build up by five masters from Kastoria. The Church of Saint Ilias (Shën Ilia) and the Church of Saint Mary (Shën Mëria), 1722.

These are the Monastery of Saint Prodhom built in 1632, the Church of Saint Nicolas (Shën Kolli), 1721. The famous masters of iconography, David Selenicasi and the Zoografi brothers painted the frescoes of the church.

36 KORÇA COUNTY

Vithkuqi is a mountain village in the district of Korça, 26 km south-west of the city. In the XVII century Vithkuqi was an important urban center with 27 churches.

In the county of Kroça there are also a range of old churches in the villages of Boboshtica, Shipska (XVII century), and in the island of Maligradi in ; the eremite churches in the coast of Lake Prespa, the Church of Saint Nicolas in the village of Vodica (1799) in the region of Kolonja etc. In the city of Korça there are several museums. You may pay a visit to the Prehistoric Museum, the Museum of The site is wellknown for the churches of Education, the Museum of Medieval Arts, Saint Michael (Shën Mëhillit) XVIII century, the Museum House of a notable painter, together with the cemetery, the Saint Vangjush Mio, the Museum of Oriental Peter Church (Shën Pjetri), the Saint Paul Art Collection, Bratko etc. In the city of Ko- Church (Shën Pavlli). The famous Zoografi rça you may visit also the Mosque of Ilias brothers painted the frescoes of the Bey Mirahori , which is the oldest monu- churches of Saint Michael and Saint Peter. ment of the city.

37 The Maligradi Island BERATI COUNTY

Dimal The Saint Triad Church The Red Mosque The Gorica Quarter Home Gorica Bridge The Ethnographic Museum BERATI COUNTY

Dimal. The first excavations began at this site in 1963. Since that time, a 30 m long stoa (covered walkway) has been unearthed. The monument clearly resembles to the stoa of , indicating the strong links between these two cities. Many stamped tiles have been found, bearing the names of the workshop owners but also the word “DIMALITAN” indicating that the workshops were property of the city. The writer Polybius mentions the role of the city in the Second Illyrian-Roman war, around 218 B.C. An The remains of the Red Mosque are found effort was undertaken to further fortify on the south of the upper fortress, near the city at this time. The Roman historian the west surrounding wall of the caste. Titus Livius, mentions Dimal again in the It is believed that this monumental may events of 205 B.C. when the city was ruled be the mosque that when Elvia Çelebiu by Romans. Several inscriptions were talks of the castle, he identifies is as Sultan found during the excavations hinting at Bajaziti’s mosque. This building is formed of the advanced political status of the ancient the hall of prayers with an almost square- city. When the Illyrian regent Demeter Fari shaped plan and form the vestibule in organized the uprising against Rome after front of it with the same width. On the the year 228 B.C., he gathered his army in left side of the hall is the marinaret. This Dimal. The campaign against him was lead placing, unlike all the other mosques, by Roman general Paul Emilius. seems to be limited from the presence of the boundary wall very close to it, in the southwest. The shrine’s walls as well as the foundation of the marinaret are built with the opus mixtum technique with two lines of horizontal bricks and one or two vertical bricks between the calcareous stones. The date of the mosque is uncertain, however, based on Çebeliu’s data, the tenchnique used and it is position it is thought that the mosque is dated in the 15th century CE. In case this monument is built from Sultan Bajaziti or if it’s an earlier construction, it makes it even harder to date it. It is thought that the Turkish garrison, who were there around the second half of the 15th century CE or around the end of the century.

40 BERATI COUNTY

The “Lead” Mosque known as charity of Ahmet Skurës has been built up in the middle of XVIth century. The social cultural and religious complex is embodied in the topology of classic Turkish portic style like hall–cupola and a mosque at the right of the entrance. Together with the mosque they were a tekke and a helevet tarikatit and a bathroom of water supply from the aqueduct built in 1640 from the architect imperial Reiz Mimar Kasemi. It is not known when these constructions have been ruined but at the end of 19th century the portik of the mosque has been reconstructed. According to Evlija Celebiut the old portik was with arcades The Saint Triad Church. The church built and covered with seven cupolas. The left between the second half of 13th century tracks indicate that it lay out of the actual and the beginning of 14th century is the longitude but the new constructions best example of the inscribed cross-type hinder definition of its plan. churches with a cupola. Its composition consists of the naos supported on four pillows and narthex built later on. The wings are formed from an archway system and the center is the cupola. The church’s walls are built with stones, pieces of bricks in the lower part and with opus mixtum in the upper part. The interior of the church is covered with mural paintings.

41 BERATI COUNTY

The Gorica Quarter Home has two floors and a basement. The porch, a crib on the left side and a stere on the right side form the basement. Two pairs of stairs are connected to the balcony at the first floor. The first floor plan shapes like a horseshoe where in the center is the church which is surrounded by the other areas. The house has been through various construction and restoration phases. In the 1st phase the home was of the garret type, where the wooden columns that hold the joist, on which the roof sits, joined in the upper part Later, the house went through three more with a carved wooden pillow. phases of construction and restoration: in the first, was the the construction of additional areas on the left of both floors; in the next phase was the extension of the areas on the right side and the closing of garret; in the last phase, the house was divided into two parts suited for two families. At the threshold of the basement is noted the year 1864, which was during the third phase of construction, though the home itself may have been built in the 18th century.

42 BERATI COUNTY

Gorica Bridge is one of the biggest stone neighborhood. Gorica Bridge is a seven medieval bridges in our country, with a cantilever bridge, lifted up 10 meters on length of 127 meters. In the 13-th century Osumi River, with a length of 129,3 meters during the war between the Byzantine and 5,3 meters wide. and the anzhuins, this spot of Osumi was This monument was built in 1870 and was passed only with a raft. In 1670 the Turkish reconstructed with the request of Ahmet traveler, Evlija Çelebi mentioned the Osumi Kurt Pasha during 1920-1930. Prior to bridge with 9 cantilevers, eight wooden this period, the two sides of Osumi were bankseats and two cleats. connected by a wooden bridge. The track was made of wooden joist sawed The Turkish traveler Evlia Çelebiu was very at the Thatë Mountain in front of it. In 1777, impressed by this monument and made a the local lordship Ahmed Kurd Pasha built short, but very interesting description of it; the Gorica Bridge with stone cantilevers. “Gorica Bridge had nine cantilevers, which In December 1888 river Osum damaged lay upon stone bankseat and oak joints. Gorica’s bridge, which suffered another This monument had a particular interest damage during the Firs World War 1914- for the local inhabitants, who preserved 1918. The Gorica bridge is made of seven with extra care the woods near the nei- vaults with light openings that vary from ghborhood, where the raw material 6.7 meters (the first vault right) to 16.5 for the bridge reparation was to be found”. meters (the second vault right). In six of Its actual state is due to a total restoration, its bankseats were opened discharger done on the same spot and on the same windows, and in five of them there are fundaments. The monument presents a two smaller windows. The bridge on the stone bridge with many vaults, with a flat Osumi River has linked the administrative causeway and inclined ramps in the both center of the city of Berati with the Gorica sides.

43 BERATI COUNTY

Ethnographic Museum of Berat is found in a traditional house, which belongs to the end of XVIII century. The house of Xhokaxhi family is composed with two floors, using as a construction material the stone for the first floor and the wood for the second one. The most attraction part of the house is the “garret”, which is noted for its high architectural values. The house is a real complex indeed where all the elements such as the garden, the museum complex of the other houses around are a witness of a rich ethnographic culture. In interior setting of the museum there are displayed 1.000 objects, which belong to the area of Berat region. The first floor is organized as a medieval bazaar with many objects and crafts. What catch your eyes are the clothes of both man and women with filigree. Other objects are the different items of decoration, copper works etc. Inside the first floor there are displayed the equipment of olive oil processing, the equipment of other drinks, the pottery and smithy. In the second floor the most interesting part is the “garret” and also the living amenities equipped with many ethnographic objects and values. In one of this amenities is the “guest room” where is a separate part where the women used to stay. Other objects are the chimney, the sofas round the room, one hanging gun and a flag 100 years old. Next to the guest room is the kitchen equipped with all cooking tools. In the second floor there are also two other rooms, which are “the country room” and “loom room“. These two room depict the ambience of working and living aspects. In the “loom room” you may see all the tools for wool, cotton processing. There are also displayed the carpets and rugs.

44 BERATI COUNTY

The bridge of Vokopola. In the village of Vokopola, upon the watercourse of Çoragjafi, near the spring of “Ujit të Zi” (the Black Water), is found the Bridge of Vokopola. This bridge must have been built during the times of Ali Pashë Tepelena and has been considered as the most important point, for connecting the valley of Osumi with the valley of Vjosa. The branch that connected Berati with Tepelena covered these villages: Vokopola-Çorgjaf- e Gllavës--. The bridge of Vokopola, is a stone bridge with a big archway, circular segments and two discharge windows. The bridge is 43 meters wide, and includes three arches and two recesses. The pavement of In this county you may visit also the Vokopola bridge, is being constructed with interesting churches in the villages black flagstones, while the archway was of Kozara and Perondia, close to the built with two rows of stones. The bridge town of Kuçova. of Vokopola is one of the largest bridges, the most monumental and preserved of this district. The monument has been restored lately and is being used by the inhabitants of the surroundings.

45 The Saint Michael Church FIERI COUNTY

Apollonia Nikaia () Gurëzeza The Monastery of Ardenica The monastery of Saint Mary in FIERI COUNTY

Apollonia. Cicero, the famed Roman orator, was captivated by the beauty of Apollonia and in his Philippics, referred to it as “magna urbs et gravis,” or “the great and important city”. The ancient city founded in the 7th century B.C., by the Greek settlers from Corinth and Corcyra, is located 11 km west of the modern city of . Apollonia was discovered by a French mission lead by Prof. Leon Rey. Archaeological excavations have shown that Apollonia reached its zenith around the 4th – 3rd century B.C. It is estimated that around 60,000 Also noteworthy is the Odeon, which dates inhabitants lived inside the city gates. on the 2nd century B.C., which at the time The city has a 4 km long wall encircling accommodated approximately 10,000 an area of 137 hectares. Sources depict spectators, and the 77 m long stoa with its a flourishing culture, with a busy harbor covered walkway. An earthquake in the 3rd along this active trading route. Among century C.E. altered the path of the Vjosa the most interesting remains are the city River and caused infrastructural damage. council building, the library, the triumphal The harbor eventually filled with silt, arch, and the temple of Artemis. effectively changing the trading route. The once proud city declined until it was nearly uninhabited. Apollonia was “rediscovered” in the 18th century C.E., and archaeological efforts have continued intermittently throughout the 20th century. Today the site can easily be accessed from the nearby city of Fier and it offers both unique views of the Adriatic coastline and extensive historical and archaeological items of great interest for the visitors.

48 FIERI COUNTY

Byllis. Established in the 3rd century B.C., Byllis once flourished as a political, economic, and cultural center in the region. Governed by a body of civil servants, the introduction of a bronze currency system, and a reputation for having skilled artisans were the hallmarks of this powerful society. The surrounding wall of Byllis is very well preserved. It measures 2,250m long, 3.5m wide and 8 - 9 m high. It surrounds an area of 30 ha, and has a triangular shape. The theater was built in the middle of the 3rd century B.C., and is located in the southeast corner of the agora. The theater The adjacent stoa, measuring 60 x 11.4 m, exhibits several unique features including remains partially preserved. The basilica a sculpture display area, an immense located in the site measures an impressive area with the ability to accommodate an 33 x 22.8 m. Inside are many examples of estimated 7,500 spectators. Interestingly, mosaics, depicting a variety of subjects. historians believe the design of the To the south of the basilica lie the remains individual steps would allow for standing of a school, which dates from the 3rd room only. century B.C. This area features a series of alcoves and the rectangular footprint of the original building. The cathedral is perhaps the most impressive area within Byllis. It consists of the basilica, the baptistery, and the diocese complex. This cathedral underwent several reconstructions; first in 470, and again in 547, C.E. After each reconstruction, the cathedral increased in size. The basilica of the cathedral exhibits a much more elaborate configuration than the other basilica in Byllis. The threshold leading to the entryway is made of an extensive mosaic. Notably, it is the largest mosaic discovered in Albania to date. It displays diverse motifs and scenes reflecting the daily life of shepherds, fishermen, and others. The walls of this cathedral were once covered in beautiful frescoes, while several depicting geometrical shapes remain.

49 FIERI COUNTY

Gurëzeza. Located near the modern town of , the site of Gurëzeza, dominates the plain of Vjosa and offers a view which extends to the Karaburun peninsula and the island of Sazan in the bay of Vlora. The partially preserved walls cover an expansive area of over 15 ha. Settlements of the site appear to be divided into three distinct phases: the Protourban, Urban, and Late Antique periods. Several important coin hoards have been found in the vicinity of this site, one with about 2,000 bronze coins from Apollonia and . Also part of this find were 200 silver coins, forty of which belonged to the Illyrian king Monunios. Based on this find, some archaeologists and historians speculate that this may have been Monunios’ residence. In the town of you may visit also the Basilica of Ballshi. Nikaia (Klos). The ancient city of Klos is located southeast of the modern city of Fier, near Byllis. The city features a protective wall that is notable for its length, 1850 m, ageing back from 425 B.C. To be noticed is the use of polygonal and trapezoidal blocks in its construction. The single entrance to the city is guarded by three defensive towers. Among the most important archaeological finds are the small theatre, a stoa and the ruins of a stadium. The theatre had a capacity of approximately 900 spectators. On one of the theatre walls, inscriptions granting citizenship to several individuals have been preserved. They date from the 3rd century B.C. The stoa, (or covered walkway) measures 10 x 40 m and has been partially excavated. Life in Nikaia came to an abrupt end in 167 B.C., when the invading armies of Paulus Aemilus ravaged the region.

50 FIERI COUNTY

The Monastery of Ardenica. The Byzantine in the south facade. This chapel was built Monastery of Ardenica occupies a surface with pumice stones and its semicircular of about 2,500 m2. This monument consists wall, divides it from a rainwater collection of the Saint Mary Church, the Saint Triad tank. The chapel’s portal is covered by a chapel, the konekes, the oil mill, the oven, stone cantilever. Near the eastern window and the stall. In the center is situated the is a ceramic bassorelief. St. Mary church, which was partly built with pumice stones brought from Apollonia. It occupies a large area; covered by a wooden roof and a flat ceiling. The church is composed of a naos, a narthex, and the two-floor, exo-narthex, which at the end unifies to the 24 meters tall bell-tower. At the south part of the complex is an open portico built with columns and cantilevers. The naos is made of three parts, which are divided in two lines by wooden columns. The naos is divided from the altar by an iconostasis. The church floor is paved with stone tiles, as are the narthex and exo-narthex. In 1743, with the initiative of Berat’s bishop, Metod, the monastery, including Saint Mary’s church underwent a restoration. The Saint Triad chapel lies at The monastery of Saint Mary in Pojan. the northwest part and its dimensions are The monastery of Saint Mary is located 7.50 m by 3.70 m. Its entrance is situated in within the complex of Apollonia the west part and it has two small windows Archaeological Park. It was build up in the XIII century. By the end of antiquity the Apollonia was largely depopulated, hosting a small Christian community, which build on a hill which was probably of cite of old city this monastery. It was reconstructed by Byzantine Emperor Andronicus Paleologus the Second. The chapel was built in the Byzantine style. The Monastery of Saint Mary is one of the most beautiful objects of this kind all over Albania In the region of you may visit several churches in the villages of Kolkondas, Karavasta, Vanaj, Libofsha, Hoxhara, , Kadipashaj etc.

51 The Church of \

VLORA COUNTY

Amantia Butrinti (Bouthrotos) Finiqi () Orikumi (Orikos) Aulona (Vlora) Treporti Onchesmos (Saranda) The fortified settlement of Karos The Porto Palermo Castle The Monastery of Saint Nicolas in The Muradie Mosque VLORA COUNTY

Amantia was the historical capital of the Illyrian tribe of Amanties, which was founded around the 5th century B.C. Its present location is near the village of Plloça in the river valley of Vlora. At its peak, Amantia featured an acropolis and a doric style temple dedicated to Aphrodite. The most notable archeological object among the preserved features is the stadium, measuring 60 X 12.5 m. A significant sculptural object is the basorelief of the God of Fertility, which can bee seen at the National Historic Museum. Additional relics from Amantia are on display at the Archaeological Museum (Phoenice) is located near the in Tirana. modern city of Saranda and about 20 km north of Lake and the Albanian border with . In antiquity the territory surrounding the settlement belonged to Chaonia, part of the Epirus kingdom. The site is rich in findings from the Classical to the Byzantine period. Ancient sources mentioned of the wealth of the city, especially during the Hellenistic period, between the 3rd and 2nd centuries B.C., when Finiq was a prominent city in the Epirote League. The city of Finiq hosted the historically significant signing of the ending treaty of the first Macedonian War. The document became known as “The Peace of Phoenice”. The city’s prosperity continued throughout the Roman and Byzantine periods. The Ottoman occupation appears to have caused the shrinking of the city of Finiq. Phoenice boasts several archaeologically important relics, including a small prostylos temple, a theatre, examplars of Hellenistic houses, and several Roman water cisterns. A signi- ficant Byzantine church can also be obser- ved when visiting this picturesque site.

54 VLORA COUNTY

Butrint (Bouthrotos) is located in the Butrint was declared a UNESCO World southwestern coastline of Albania. The Heritage Site in 1992. The ground of city is separated by a narrow stretch Butrint features an impressive array of from the Greek island of Corfu. The site historically significant archaeological sites. has been occupied approximately at the Foremost among them is the theater, 8th century B.C., but legends hint at the which dates from the 4th century B.C. city’s foundation by Trojan exiles. By the hosting approximately 1,500 spectators. 4th century B.C., a walled settlement Performances are still staged there at a had been established and the city began summer-festival each year. An impressive to develope through trade. Augustus baptistery (with extensive mosaics) and a founded a colony at Butrint and the town basilica from the 6th century C.E. attest to remained a relatively small Roman port the various occupations of the city. A canal until the 6th century C.E. Following the and vestiges of Roman courtyard houses lie fall of the , the city shrank near the theater. Additionally, kilometers in population and significance. Butrint of imposing walls surround much of the then entered a turbulent period and site. Nearby, the recently renovated Butrint control of the city was bitterly fought by Museum houses many fascinating objects the Byzantine, Norman, Angevin, and unearthed during the various archeological Venetian states. The Ottoman Turks and digs. One must travel to the National briefly the French disputed later ownership. Historic Museum to view the famous By the time it became a part of Albania head of Apollo, unearthed by the Italian in 1912, it was virtually deserted. Various archaeologist Luigi Maria Ugolini during archeological efforts began in the 1920’s, his excavations in the 1920’s. and continue today.

55 VLORA COUNTY

Behind the Independence Monument Square in Vlora, the remains of a recta- ngular castle have been excavated. The castle comprised a portion of the ancient city of Aulona and was built in the 4th century C.E. to withstand Gothic invasions. Other finds in the area indicate that it was first settled around the 4th century B.C. The best known find from this period is a sculpture known as “the aulonian girl”, depicting a girl wearing an Illyrian dress. Historical sources mention Aulona in the 2nd century C.E., in relation to Roman efforts to improve roads in this part of the western Balkans. In various itineraries Treport. Excavations near the Cape of Aulon is mentioned as a principal stopping Treport, located in the lagoon of Narta, place on the main road from Dyrrachium to have revealed traces of an ancient Butrint. Following the Gothic invasions of settlement dating from the 7th century the 5th century C.E., an archdiocese was B.C. Over the centuries the settlement established inside the castle. During the extended and a new wall was built around reign of Justinian, the castle was further it in the 4th century B.E. Between the 4th fortified by his direct orders. Late in the 6th and 2nd centuries B.C., the city prospered. century C.E. Slavs invaded the city, causing The original name of the city is unknown, widespread damage and an evacuation by but finds in the area indicate that it might many citizens to the island of Sazan, where have been called Daulia. The city was traces of this settlement have been disco- mysteriously abandoned after the 2nd vered. The city might have never regained century B.C., but this might have been its status, appearing to have diminished related to the Illyrian-Roman wars. significantly in size and importance. Aulona is mentioned again in Byzantine documents, around 1100 C.E.

56 VLORA COUNTY

Orikum (Orikos) is located in southwest theatre with the capacity of 400 spectators. Albania, about 40km south of the Additionally, ruins of protective walls and archaeological site of Apollonia. According streets can be seen lying underwater in a to Pliny, the city of was established lagoon. The nearby Marmiroi Church, of by colonists from Colchis. Its geographical Byzantine origin, was commissioned by position made it an important harbor and the emperor Theodore in the 13th century a trade center of the Adriatic coast. C.E. It has a small 6 m x 9 m main hall and Orikum was important to military a dome approximately 3 m in diameter strategists, as well. It was used by the that is supported by four Roman arches. Its Romans as a defensive base in the wars internal walls feature fragments of murals against the Illyrians as well as in the 3rd that reflect various aspects of Byzantine century B.C. against the Macedonians, who culture. The church has three entrances and later occupied it in 214 B.C. Julius Caesar is renowned for its elaborate construction used the area as a troop encampment for and architectural significance. Today several months, until Pompeius Magnus Orikum is an important city, which has took them. Being subject to such varied been part of many regional development cultural influences, Orikum became a programs and has seen a distinct increase thriving urban center. This is evidenced in the tourism sector. This is a result of its by various archaeological ruins, such as proximity to the Adriatic Sea and its relative part of an orchestra platform and a small position to other nearby cities.

57 VLORA COUNTY

Onchesmos (Saranda). The name of the ancient town derives from Anchises, the Trojan warrior, whose mythological union with the goddess Aphrodite resulted in a son named Aeneas. Aeneas, along with his father and his son, Ascanius, escaped the sack of Troy, and journeyed throughout the Mediterranean. Dionysos of Halicarnassus calls Onchesmos the Harbor of Anchises, while the Byzantine historian Procopius mentions that Anchises died at Onchesmos. During the 6th century C.E., the town’s name changes to Hagia Saranda or “Forty Saints”. The circumstances of this name change are unclear, but might Porto Palermo Castle. Ali Pasha Tepelena have been related to the construction of built Porto Palermo castle, located in the a great basilica overlooking the modern Vlora region, in the late 18th century. It has city of Saranda. Various monuments a rectangular shape with four bastions in and archaeological finds from the its corners. Along the terrace’s parapet is a city have been excavated. Among the positioned loophole for canons. The inner more impressive finds are the ruins of a space is made of halls, stores and other synagogue, a portion of a Roman Imperial areas. In its central part are positioned archway, and the ruins of a late antique stone stairs that lead to the terrace. Walls house. Also noteworthy are an apsidal protect the entire environment with gun building, an Odeon, a cemetery, and an loopholes on the front and on the side. elaborate mosaic, widely known as the On the outside, in the archway entrance, is Dolphin Pavement. a stone balcony in a cantilever form.

58 VLORA COUNTY

Muradie Mosque. It is located in the very heart of the city of Vlora. This is a sultan style mosque, with a dome that was built in the second half of the 16th century. It consists of a prayer hall and a minaret build of carved stone. This monument is noted for the harmonious distribution of its windows. The design and construction of this mosque were carried out by Mimar Sinan Aga the Great, an architect of Albanian origin who was one of the most important mosque builders in the . It is supposed that he was born in the village of Gjergaj (today Sinanaj) in The Monastery of Saint Nicolas in the region of Tepelena, south Albania. He Mesopotam. This beautiful monument is is consider the greatest architect of the located in the village of Mespotam, not far classical period of Ottoman architecture from the turist city of Saranda. It a very and is often compared to Michelangelo. good accessibility because is on the Muradie Mosque is the only object that has national road linking Saranda with remained form this master in Albania. Gjirokastra. It is a Byzantine church which is reconstructed two time in the years 1793 and 1843. The main characteristic of the monastery, is its distinctive defense features. The fortified wall surrounding the monastery includes rectangular towers. Being located near the National Park of Butrint, could attract numerous visitors.

59 VLORA COUNTY

The fortified settlement of Karos The towers of Dervish Aliu, is located near the village of in Dukati along the Qeparo River. In a location clearly chosen for its natural defenses, the fortress is situated atop a hill. Approaches from nearly all directions would require a difficult climb up a rocky slope. The original defense walls apparently had only one entrance. The present status of the walls is a mere shadow of what it used to be, but still extending for 350 m and is approximately 3 m thick. It varies in height, but achieves a maximum of 1.5 m in its ruined state. Two structures behind the entrance gate would have The county of Vlora is very rich with other provided additional barriers for attackers objects. We should mention a range of and suggest just how heavily fortified orthodox churches alongside the Albanian this location once was. Origins of the Riviera as are the Chuch of Saint Mary of settlement are unknown, but artifacts Mesodhia in (1783), the Church of unearthed during the archaeological dig Saint Spiridhoni in Vuno (1778), the Chuch represent a wide range of inhabitants from of Ipapandia in Dhërmi, the Church of Saint the Early Iron Age to the 4th century C.E. Mary of Athali in . The traditional houses of Odise Kasneci in Vuno and Lilo LLazari in Himara.

The Church of Qeparoi

60 VLORA COUNTY

Other monument in the district of Vlora includes the Church of Marmiroi (XIII The Lëkursi Castle century) close to Orikum, the towers of Dervish Aliu in the village of Dukat, the castle of Kanina, the Gjon Boçari Castle in the village of Tragjas. While in the district of Saranda you may visit the ruins of the monastery of 40 Saints close to Saranda, the Lëkursi Castle (2 km south of Saranda), the small castle at the entrance of Vivari channel near Burtint etc.

As regards the museums, in the city of Vlora you may visit the Museum of Independence, the Ethnographic and Historic Museums.

The Kanina Castle

61 The Church of Marmiroi \

GJIROKASTRA COUNTY

Antigonea Hadrianopolis The Tepelena Castle The Bazaar of Gjirokastra The habitation of “Zenaja of Zekatëve” The Church of Saint Mary in Labova e Kryqit The Tekke of Melani The Libovoha Castle The church of Saint Mary in Leuse GJIROKASTRA COUNTY

The Ancient city of Antigonea lies on Hadrianopolis. Located in the Drino River the east side of the Drinos Valley, near Valley near Gjirokastër, this city was the modern day village of Saraqinishtë. known as Adrianopolis in Roman times. The ruins of an extraordinary wall, which The site features a theatre which could measures approximately 4 km in length, accommodate approximately 4,000 surround it. Not long ago, the significance spectators. It was excavated in 1984. of the site was unknown. Excavations spanning the last fifty years, however, have positively identified the site through the discovery of a bronze tesserae inscribed with the word “ANTIΓΩNEΩN”. Discovered coins from many once-powerful regional economies hint at the thriving trade that once fueled this civilization. The historical origins of the city are unclear, but literary sources suggest that Antigonea was founded either by King Antigonos Gonatas of Macedonia or, more probably, by the Molossian King, Pyrrhus, around 300, B.C. Several other prominent features grace the landscape of Antigonea. Near the central Tepelena Castle. Is is build up by Ali agora, an impressive stoa with a covered Pasha in the end of XVIII century in the walkway measuring 9 X 59 m has been town of Tepelena. The construction of this excavated. A paleo-christian basilica with a monument is finished in the year 1819. triangular design dating back to the sixth It has an area of 4 - 5 ha and it is protected century C.E., boasts extensive mosaics by three towers. The height of the walls depicting a variety of historical subjects. arrives to 10 meters. The eastern entrance is called “Porta e Vezirit”. Here there is an inscription .

64 GJIROKASTRA COUNTY

The Bazaar of Gjirokastra (Pazari i Gjirokastrës). The urban location of this site indicates that the bazaar belongs to the 17th century. Gjirokastra’s old bazaar is situated on the top of the Castle hill, where even today the site is known as the “The Old Bazaar”. According to Elvia Çelebiu, around 1771 - 1772 the old bazaar started gradually relocating towards the city center, where it actually exists. At the end of the 19th century, a destructive fire collapsed the entire bazaar. After this tragedy, the bazaar was rebuilt again according to contemporary architectural standards. Changes were made to the original urban plan to reconstruct the bazaar with fragmented blocks and steps, due to the rugged terrain. The top front of the shops are made of wooden and metallic eaves, while later, the entrances of Gjirokastra castle, is mentioned for the the shops were closed with metallic roller first time as a city and a castle in 1336. In curtains. The narrow streets of the bazaar these years it was the center for Albanian spread out from a small city center into five feudalists family of Zenebishëve. Later, different directions. Every street is lined up during the lordship of Gjin Bue Shpata, with fragmented blocks of buildings. it was included in the Despotate of Epir. According to them, the castle underwent two construction phases, the first one during the Gjin Bue Shpata rule and later in the 19th century during the Ali Pasha of Tepelena regime, who in 1812, occupied the fortress accommodating there a garrison of 5,000 soldiers. The castle included various underground storehouses, which were used to secure munitions and food storage. Chronicles of the period mention that 1,500 people worked on the construction of Ali Pasha’s castle. During the First and the Second World Wars, the castle served as a bomb shelter for the town habitants.

65 GJIROKASTRA COUNTY

The habitation “Zenaja of Zekatëve”. The The habitation of Zekatëve has three yards. habitation has been through two phases In the yard from the west is building, of housing. The first phase is during the Zapanaja, a subsidiary construction and year 1811-1812 and the second phase a grass depot. One habitation is a variant is about of the beginning of XX century. marked in two cantilevers. By reason of The habitation of Zekatëve is been the rocky slanting land, whereon lift of, constantly utilized for Habitation until 90’s. the habitation in the over floor widen back In nowadays it is unutilized. Zapanaja, a while eastern cantilever is three-storied, subsidiary construction inside to the space whereas western cantilever is four-storied. of the first yard today is habitable. The In its design the habitation separated habitation of Zekateve is one of the typical in three complex, that central, courier representatives and in the same time is and two lateral with equal operation. very mature of Gjirokastra habitation, a The ground floor and the first of eastern pet model in typology of the habitation cantilever are uninhabited. In the central Albanian civilization of century XVIII-XIX. part emanate the stairs, in the eastern cantilever is katoi, whereas in the western is the mainland for the accumulation of rainy water, with the taking of water by the courier spaces that dominated under divan. Over that is made theonly space for enshrine the products of food, cellar of zahirese. The mezzanine formed by two settings, which the family spend the winter. The last floor is more marked because widen at the mezzanine with two alcoves for cooking, one for each floor. Also, in the central part, the pervious garret with kiosk it has been add the plane of kamariese incumbent over a pillar crowing with a cantilever and arch system. In the western cantilever is built the guest-room while in the left side are two habitant alcove. The habitation descry for design alluvial in altitudes, axis monumental view and to manage connection with building plot. In the axis more processed view, the design appears as a dynamic, fattened by gouts almost unvoiced in the upstairs with full light and elements. Inside, with asset furnish architectonic, the guest-room descry forepart, with the special ceiling in

66 GJIROKASTRA COUNTY the side of arch. The two ceilings descry for churches of Kosturi and Ohri at that time. trappings with rosettes and border, partly In the out appearance the church is created painted florae figured, like as girdle with using kluasonazh style similar to the other plane of shelf and tumbler of decorative churches of . smokestack. In the present condition the habitation of Zekatëve doesn’t present problems for serious intervention of restoration.

In this county you may visit also the Ethnographic Museum of Gjirokastra, the churches of Saint Mary in Leusë and Kosinë, near the town of Përment, the Libovoha Castle, (XVIII century), the Holy Virgin Monastery in , (Region of Dropulli), the Tekke of Melani (close to Libohova), etc.

The Church of Saint Mary in Labova e Kryqit. The church of Saint Mary in the Labova of the Cross is of the style of an inside-written cross with roof of provincial Byzantine type. Inside are used arches of two floors that carry the roof and making thus reference to the to some of Kostandinopoje churches. The originate time is still undetermined in lack of written documents but voices confirm as the originate date the XVIII-XIV based this to the volume and plain similarity with the

67 The Church of Leusa

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