Are you a lover of history and medieval architecture? Do you crave to explore castles and their stories? If yes, then Rozafa Castle in Shkoder is the perfect destination for you. Located in the northwestern part of Albania, Rozafa castle is a grand fortress with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. In this article, we will take a detailed look at Rozafa Castle and explore why it should be on your bucket list.
History of Rozafa Castle
Rozafa Castle dates back to the Illyrian period, which existed from the 3rd to the 1st century BC. Later, the Venetians constructed the castle during the medieval era. The castle has survived numerous invasions and battles and has been rebuilt and expanded several times. It has played an important role in protecting the city and its people over the centuries.
The Legend of Rozafa
Legend has it that the castle was built with the blood, sweat, and tears of three brothers. They were constructing the castle during the day, but every night, the walls they had built would crumble down. A wise man told them that they needed to sacrifice one of their wives to make the walls stand. The brothers agreed, and they chose Rozafa, the youngest brother's wife. She agreed to be buried alive in the walls so that the castle could stand. Today, there is a statue of Rozafa in the castle courtyard to honor her sacrifice and her spirit.
Architecture of Rozafa Castle
The castle is built on a hill overlooking the city of Shkoder and the Drin River. It covers an area of approximately four hectares and has three courtyards. The walls of the castle are up to two meters thick, and there are numerous towers and bastions that offer incredible views of the surroundings. The castle includes a prison, a chapel, and a cistern that provided water to the castle's inhabitants during sieges.
Visiting Rozafa Castle
Visitors can explore the castle and its various sections by foot. The castle is open from 9 am to 7 pm every day, and the entrance fee is very reasonable. The best time to visit is during the early morning or late afternoon when the sun is not too harsh. Visitors can walk through the ruins of the castle, climb up the walls to enjoy the breathtaking views, and take pictures of the castle and the surrounding landscapes.
Things to Do in Rozafa Castle
Apart from exploring the castle itself, there are several other things that visitors can do in the area. Here are a few:
- Visit the Museum of Photography "Marubi": This museum is located near the castle and showcases the history of Albanian photography.
- Take a boat tour on Lake Shkoder: The largest lake in the Balkans is located just a few kilometers away from the castle. Visitors can take a boat tour to explore the lake's islands and see different bird species.
- Explore the city of Shkoder: Shkoder is an ancient city with a rich history and culture. Visitors can explore the Old Bazaar, the Ebu Bekr Mosque, the Lead Mosque, and the Orthodox Cathedral.
Getting to Rozafa Castle
The easiest way to get to Rozafa Castle is by car. It is located about 5 km from the center of Shkoder, and there is ample parking available. Visitors can also take a taxi or a local bus to reach the castle. The nearest airport is in Tirana, which is about 100 km away.
Best Time To Visit Rozafa Castle
The best time to visit Rozafa Castle is during spring (April to June) or autumn (September to November). The weather is mild and pleasant during these months, and there are fewer crowds. Summer (July to August) can be very hot and crowded, while winter (December to February) can be cold and snowy.
Accommodation Near Rozafa Castle
There are several hotels and guesthouses near Rozafa Castle that offer comfortable accommodation. Some of the popular ones include Hotel Tradita, Hotel Argenti, and Hotel Colosseo. Visitors can also choose to stay in the city center or near Lake Shkoder and commute to the castle.
Conclusion
Rozafa Castle is an excellent destination for history and architecture enthusiasts. Its panoramic views and rich history make it a must-visit place in Albania. Visitors can explore the castle ruins, learn about its legends, and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Furthermore, the city of Shkoder and Lake Shkoder offer additional attractions that visitors can enjoy. So, pack your bags and head to Rozafa Castle for an unforgettable adventure.
FAQs
Q1. Is Rozafa Castle accessible for people with disabilities? Ans. Unfortunately, the castle is not entirely accessible for people with disabilities as there are stairs and uneven paths.
Q2. Are there guided tours available for Rozafa Castle? Ans. Yes, there are guided tours available for visitors who want to learn more about the castle's history and legends.
- Is there a restaurant or café in Rozafa Castle? Ans. No, there is no restaurant or café within the castle walls. However, there are several restaurants and cafes located near the castle and in the city center.
- Can visitors take pictures inside the castle? Ans. Yes, visitors can take pictures inside the castle, but they are not allowed to use tripods or any other professional photography equipment without prior permission.
- Is there an entrance fee for children? Ans. Children under the age of six can enter the castle free of charge, while children between the ages of 6-18 have to pay a reduced fee.
