Foto: Castle of Kruja (bron: =)
Albania - The historic town of Kruja is located 32 km northwest of Tirana. From Barbullush to Kruja, it is a one and a half hour drive. Kruja is a medieval town and was first mentioned as a Christian religious center in the year 879. Later, Kruja became the main town of the Topiaj feudal family and the center of the Arberia Principate. The Ottomans occupied Kruja twice, in 1396 and 1415. After the return of Gjergj Kastrioti (Skanderbeg) from Turkey in 1443, this national hero was honored and became the symbol of popular resistance against the Ottoman Empire. He became famous throughout Europe for the resistance he offered against the Ottomans. Today, the town of Kruja rises 560 meters above sea level, on the slopes of Sari-Salltiku mountain. It offers a magnificent view to its visitors. A grand display of majestic landscape and a rich collection of historical and cultural objects. The most important is the Kruja Castle, which was built in the 5th and 6th centuries and has an oval shape with a total area of 2.25 hectares. The surrounding walls are reinforced by nine towers, which served as observation and signaling points during times of war. Inside the castle walls, remnants of a few houses can be found.
The Amphitheatre of Butrint
Albania - The weather clears up at Butrint. The sun is shining and it’s quite hot—no sign of rain here. The ancient city of Butrint was founded around 500 BC on a small peninsula. Over time, it was expanded by the Romans, the Byzantines, and eventually the ...
The Castle of Shkoder
Albania - We then drive back to Shkoder. The GPS directs us onto a cart path through the city toward the castle. We hesitate whether to take this route with our Land Rover, but decide against it. From the other side, the road is better. The final stretch is quite ...
The Central Square of Tirana
Albania - Cars drive five rows deep on a three-lane road, yet everyone seems to be considerate. We carefully maneuver “Brutus” through the busy roundabouts. The street of our hotel isn’t recognized by the GPS. When we drive along a nearby boulevard, we know ...
The Old Ottoman City of Berat
Albania - In the center, most passengers leave the bus. A young man gestures that we should get out too. Outside, he points the way to the citadel. We quickly follow his directions and climb up to the citadel, located 214 meters higher. It’s quite a climb. The ...
The Old Quarter of Gjirokaster
Albania - From Fier, we head toward Gjirokaster. Part of the route is on an old, rough road, but much of it is on a new highway. Around 1:30 PM, we enter Gjirokaster. A very steep and narrow road takes us up to the castle via GPS. In low gear, we slowly drive uphill. ...