Gjirokaster

Gjirokastra is an ancient city in southern Albania. The city was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2005, as one of the few surviving examples in the Balkans of Ottoman-style commercial cities. Gjirokastra is located on the side of the Broad Mountain, on its northeastern slopes and on the left bank of the Drino River valley. The origin of the name Gjirokastra has a mythical explanation and two others with a more historical nature. According to legend, during the final siege of the city by the Turks, Princess Argjiro, the sister of the lord of the city, was thrown from the castle walls along with her son so as not to fall alive into the hands of the enemy.

With its ancient history, stunning Ottoman-era houses, a majestic fortress and an old bazaar, Gjirokastër is no doubt considered to be one of the most beautiful towns in Albania. To understand the city right, visit Gjirokastër Castle, Ethnographic Museum, Zekate House and Gjirokastër Museum, Ali Pasha Bridge, the Cold War Tunnel.