Gjirokaster: An unsized organism in the heart of Albanian territory is capable of winning the warm and friendly hearts of numerous tourists, who wish to better know the mysterious Balkan country. This is called the “City of Stone” and is a UNESCO-listed city which, preserves the Ottoman style of architecture and houses and features cobbled roads and a beautiful mountainous backdrop. In this blog post, I would like to highlight the main peculiarities of Gjirokaster City, its role in the state history and the opportunities that tourists will have in the city.
A Glimpse into History
Gjirokaster extends in the zone of the historical Illyrian period, there are testimonials of different settlements since the 4th century BC. Banasi developed and thrived in the Ottoman Empire period, integrating the role of a commercial city and as a socio-cultural interaction site. The layout and the design of the city and its houses, the narrow streets, and the castle are evidence of this very dense and impressive history.
The Gjirokaster Castle is one of the major attractions in this city which offers magnificent views of the vicinity. Horingberg Castle was constructed in the 12th century but has been extended and reconstructed many times. Currently, it contains the regional museum with a view of the City during WWII and the communist period.
Architectural Marvels
The whole appearance of the city is attributed to Ottoman-Albanian architecture with Mediterranean influences. The stone houses called ‘kule’ are unique structures that have a tall narrow structure and, special slate roofs. Most of these houses have been changed into guesthouses so that tourists get the real feel of Albanian houses.
Perhaps the most popular house in the Gjirokaster district is the Ethnographic Museum which once housed Albanian’s most acclaimed writer Ismail Kadare. It gives an overview of the way of life of the inhabitants of Gjirokaster; thematic exhibits include clothes and footwear, musical instruments, and hand tools. The alleys of Gjirokaster are very narrow and twisting and strolling along them, one can be impressed by numerous marvellous buildings at every turn.
Cultural Experiences
Gjirokaster can be watched and admired but also it is a cultural hotspot. The city also has many festivals that are held over the year to promote the tradition, music and foods in the city. Among them, the most famous can be recalled as Gjirokaster National Folklore Festival where participants from all over Albania perform and demonstrate traditional songs, dances and handmade arts.
Gastronomic enthusiasts will also not be disappointed by the touristic offer of Gjirokaster. The local food is unique flavours of the Mediterranean and the Balkans based on “qifqi” (rice with meat), “byrek” (pastry with cheese or meat), and “tavë kosi” (milk baked with lamb meat). And of course do not omit the homemade raki alcoholic beverage, an accompaniment that goes with the regional Albanian meals.
Natural Beauty
Among the main activities that tourists can engage in while visiting Gjirokaster, one finds the following: being an outdoor destination, the city is successfully incorporated into the expectations of the tourist industry. The nature paths and tracks, the waterfalls, and the clean rivers are just within a stone’s throw from the city and as a result, it is the most appropriate departure point to enjoy the natural face of Albania.
Another scenic area easily accessible for hikers is the Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër) which is a natural spring of mineral water of exceptionally beautiful blue color which is great for swimming and has all the necessary facilities for picnicking. Also because the area around Gjirokaster is dramatic, offers great conditions for taking pictures of the mountains and valleys that in seasons change their colours.
Ancient Roots
Gjirokaster has been established since the Illyrian period and there have been settlement findings in Gjirokaster since the 4th century BC. The city was located along some trade corridors and therefore it grew and was important. Artefacts such as pottery and bones of the early inhabitants are visible in different archaeological displays within the locality.
Ottoman Influence
Gjirokaster became an important trading point during the Ottomans, dominating from the 15th to the early 20th century. A city that was famous for its full and diverse nights, oriental and occidental roots. During the latter era, numerous of the stone houses that identify the city today were built along with schools and religious establishments. The city is also famous for being the home town of Ismail Kadare, one of the greatest and most renowned Albanian writers and one of the most noted authors in world literature. His creations always portray the subtleties and issues of the Albanian nation and the past hence the environment of Gjirokaster suited his early life.
The Castle of Gjirokaster
Visiting the main sightseeing of Gjirokaster, the castle, tourists will enjoy beautiful views of the city and the territory. Begun in 12 th century the castle has since been added to and redone numerous times. What stands out in this territory is several antic towers, thick stone walls, and a series of museums telling about the local history and military relics.
Tourists are allowed to even climb on the castle walls, which offer amazing vantage points of the enormity of Drino Valley and the mountains so distant on the horizon. Also, for entertainment, the castle has cultural programmes and festivals, which enliven the atmosphere throughout the year.
Traditional Architecture
The architectural styles of Gjirokaster include Ottomans, Albanians as well as Mediterranean styles. The structures can accommodate several rooms, and are known as ‘kule”, the design is uniquely elongated and the roofs are made of slate. Most of these houses have been turned into guest houses to provide a taste of the actual Albanian feeling.
Examples of traditional architecture are present in the Ethnographic Museum which used to be the house of Ismail Kadare. This museum helps understand people’s daily life in Gjirokaster; pieces of traditional clothing, handwritten textiles, tools, etc can be seen here. From art, dancing, architecture and dress code and the way they have changed over the period from the arrival of the Europeans, the museum was able to enlighten me on the customs and lifestyle of the people of that region.
Festivals and Traditions
Yes, Gjirokaster is a living theatre not only for the eye but even for the senses as a whole. There are also festivals held in the year demonstrating the heritage, music, and food of the city. Among those, the most important one is the Gjirokaster National Folklore Festival, where representatives of the Albanian folklore dance and sing, in traditional costumes presenting the local and area’s handicraft. This festival is, therefore, a colourful exhibition of Albanian culture, dances, group dances, traditional attire,-oriented crafts, etc.
Culinary Delights
The lovers of the food will also have an adequate variety to taste in Gjirokaster. Local food is best described as Mediterranean and Balkan influences – rice balls “qifqi”, pastries “byrek”, baked lamb with yoghurt “tavë kosi”. It was regarded to be friendly both to the environment and to the locals as many dining places serve fresh food from local producers.
Before you leave do not forget to order the locally brewed raki from grapes or even figs, which seem to complement the local cuisine very well. For sweets try baklava or tullumba which are pastries borrowed from the Ottomans into Albanian cuisine.
Scenic Landscapes
Some of the tourist attractions that can be found in Gjirokaster include outdoor activities which are made possible due to the location of the town which is surrounded by the Drino Valley and the Albanian Alps. The area is mountainous with green meadows, and clear watered rivers, and therefore popular with hikers and bikers and other outdoor enthusiasts.
Not far from the village, there is a beautiful trail to the Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër) – a natural spring with crystal clear water suitable for swimming and making picnics. The site itself is a natural reserve as a protected natural monument; the waterbed offers rather beautiful colours and there is a lot of greenery around.
Outdoor Activities
Every adventurous person in the nearby area has diverse occupations such as trail hiking which leads to some stunning vantage views and obscured falls. The Albanian Alps which are a few hours away from Gjirokaster will never let you down from exciting trekking through the outside beauty of Albania.
Practical Information for Travelers
Nevertheless, it is quite easy to get to Gjirokaster with buses running hourly or with an interval of several hours to the city from Tirana and Saranda. It is a small city which can easily be tread on foot this makes the touring in the city easier. It is approximately 3-4 hours by car from Tirana and thus is perfect for a weekend trip. From Saranda, the trip is approximately 1. five hrs and was mostly a drive through the rural areas of Albania. Surprisingly the English language is not very commonly used, but the people are very warm and inviting and they are always ready to tell and show the visitors about their culture.
Accommodation
There are various places that visitors can choose to stay in Gjirokaster, including the luxurious and the economy hotels, guest houses and hôtes. Guesthouse accommodation for tourists is a unique way of experiencing the culture of the people of Albania since most of them provide meals for tourists and cook unique Albanian meals.
Tips for Visitors
• Language: English is not common even though in Bajram Curri, most people 30 years and younger and or working in hotels or restaurants fairly communicate in English. It is always useful to learn a few basic terms of the language of the country you are visiting; in your case, Albanian.
• Currency: The currency used in the country is the Albanian lek although other currencies within the Eurozone are also accepted. They are accepted in major places such as hotels, supermarkets and gasoline stations but it is recommended to pay with cash in other small shops or restaurants.
• Dress Code: In case you are visiting Islamic countries, it is politically correct to wear Islamic type dress especially when you are going to pray in a mosque or any place of worship like a Church. It may be forbidden for women to leave their heads uncovered in some regions.
• Safety: All in all, the town of Gjirokaster presents a rather low crime rate for tourists. Nevertheless, it is always prudent not to let your guard down at any travel destination, and take your basic measures.
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Conclusion
Gjirokaster therefore stands out in the overall map of Albania revealing history, culture and natural wonders all in one. Preservation of cultural monuments exceptional traditions and the beautiful countryside make it a place that should not be missed by anyone interested in the Balkan heritage’s history. From the feeling when taking a walk through the cobble-stoned streets of the city up to the time when you taste the delicious traditional cuisine as well enjoying the great view, this city of Gjirokaster is memorable.
By so doing, the readers can be able to learn more about the history of the city, how the buildings in the city were designed, the culture of the people, and some of the activities of interest they are likely to encounter in the city of Gjirokaster. Regardless of whether one is interested in history or culture, foods, or landscape, Gjirokaster is an excellent destination for a visit.