Petrela Castle
Kalaja e Petrelës
A medieval castle on a hilltop on Tirana's southern outskirts, once belonging to Skanderbeg's sister. The restaurant inside lets you dine while looking out over the Erzen Valley.
The castle was built in the Byzantine period and fortified by Skanderbeg in the 15th century, serving as a beacon post between Krujë and Durrës. The surviving towers and walls are modest in size, but their commanding position offers excellent views over olive groves and the Erzen River valley. The restaurant inside the castle is known for traditional dishes and mountain views. It is about 15 km from Tirana, roughly a 30-minute taxi ride, and is often combined with a visit to Pellumbas Cave or a trip to Berat or Vlorë.
Opening hours
All day (restaurants about 10:00–23:00)
Nearby sights
- Mother Albania
- Grand Park of Tirana & Artificial Lake
- National Archaeological Museum of Albania
- Postbllok Memorial
- Pyramid of Tirana
- Blloku
- Bektashi World Centre
- Great Mosque of Tirana (Namazgah)