Shkoder’s guidebook
Sightseeing
The Historical Museum of Shkodra opened its doors since 1947, and it was initially known as the “Folk Museum”, but from 1949 it was established with all its existing components. It was located in the very centre of the city, in a monumental building of the 19th century; its prominence was further increased by the Clock Tower close by. The museum initially was assembled due to the donations of the old Jesuit and Franciscan
conventions collections. These initial pieces were from the end of the 19th century, as well as part of private collections of prominent the Shkodra families. The funds were futher enriched with donations, purchases, and casual findings and from various archaeological digs. During the following years other museums and house museums were raised, forming a network of 7 museum centres in the city of Shkodra.
In 1996 the Historical Museum of Shkodra was transferred in the now restored monumental building a traditional Shkodran house of “Oso Kuka, where it is still today.
The “Rozafa” Museum opened in 1987 and placed in the Captain’s quarters in the City Castle augments the Museum importance.
22 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Muzeu Historik Shkoder
32 Rruga Oso KukaThe Historical Museum of Shkodra opened its doors since 1947, and it was initially known as the “Folk Museum”, but from 1949 it was established with all its existing components. It was located in the very centre of the city, in a monumental building of the 19th century; its prominence was further increased by the Clock Tower close by. The museum initially was assembled due to the donations of the old Jesuit and Franciscan
conventions collections. These initial pieces were from the end of the 19th century, as well as part of private collections of prominent the Shkodra families. The funds were futher enriched with donations, purchases, and casual findings and from various archaeological digs. During the following years other museums and house museums were raised, forming a network of 7 museum centres in the city of Shkodra.
In 1996 the Historical Museum of Shkodra was transferred in the now restored monumental building a traditional Shkodran house of “Oso Kuka, where it is still today.
The “Rozafa” Museum opened in 1987 and placed in the Captain’s quarters in the City Castle augments the Museum importance.
It was an Illyrian stronghold during the rule of the Labeates and Ardiaei, whose capital was Scodra.
During the Third Illyrian War the Illyrian king Gentius concentrated his forces in Scodra. When he was attacked by the Roman army lead by L. Anicius Gallus, Gentius fled into the city and was trapped there hoping that his brother Caravantius would come at any moment with a large relieving army, but it didn't happen. After his defeat, Gentius sent two prominent tribal leaders, Teuticus and Bellus, as envoys to negotiate with the Roman commander. On the third day of the truce, Gentius surrendered to the Romans, was placed in custody and sent to Rome. The Roman army marched north of Scutari Lake where, at Meteon, they captured Gentius' wife queen Etuta, his brother Caravantius, his sons Scerdilaidas and Pleuratus along with leading Illyrians.
THE LEGEND
There is a famous legend among Albanians associated with the construction of the Rozafa Castle, which has been transmitted orally from ancient times, with immurement and human sacrifice as main themes.[7][8]
The story tells about the initiative of three brothers who set down to build a castle. They worked all day, but the foundation walls fell down at night. They met a wise old man who seems to know the solution of the problem asking them if they were married. When the three brothers responded positively, the old man said:
“ If you really want to finish the castle, you must swear never to tell your wives what I am going to tell you now. The wife who brings you your food tomorrow you must bury alive in the wall of the castle. Only then will the foundations stay put and last forever. ”
The three brothers swore to not speak with their wives of that happened. However the two eldest brothers broke their promise and quietly told their wives everything, while the honest youngest brother kept his word and said nothing. The mother of the three brothers knew nothing of their agreement, and while the next afternoon at lunch time, she asked her daughters-in-law to bring lunch to the workers, two of them refused with an excuse. The brothers waited anxiously to see which wife was carrying the basket of food. It was ROZAFA, the wife of the youngest brother, who left her younger son at home. Embittered, the youngest brother explained to her what the deal was, that she was to be sacrificed and buried in the wall of the castle so that they could finish building it, and she didn't protest but, worried about her infant son, she accepted being immured and made a request:
“ I have but one request to make. When you wall me in, leave a hole for my right eye, for my right hand, for my right foot and for my right breast. I have a small son. When he starts to cry, I will cheer him up with my right eye, I will comfort him with my right hand, I will put him to sleep with my right foot and wean him with my right breast. Let my breast turn to stone and the castle flourish. May my son become a great hero, ruler of the world.
Kalaja e Rozafës
Rruga Kalasë It was an Illyrian stronghold during the rule of the Labeates and Ardiaei, whose capital was Scodra.
During the Third Illyrian War the Illyrian king Gentius concentrated his forces in Scodra. When he was attacked by the Roman army lead by L. Anicius Gallus, Gentius fled into the city and was trapped there hoping that his brother Caravantius would come at any moment with a large relieving army, but it didn't happen. After his defeat, Gentius sent two prominent tribal leaders, Teuticus and Bellus, as envoys to negotiate with the Roman commander. On the third day of the truce, Gentius surrendered to the Romans, was placed in custody and sent to Rome. The Roman army marched north of Scutari Lake where, at Meteon, they captured Gentius' wife queen Etuta, his brother Caravantius, his sons Scerdilaidas and Pleuratus along with leading Illyrians.
THE LEGEND
There is a famous legend among Albanians associated with the construction of the Rozafa Castle, which has been transmitted orally from ancient times, with immurement and human sacrifice as main themes.[7][8]
The story tells about the initiative of three brothers who set down to build a castle. They worked all day, but the foundation walls fell down at night. They met a wise old man who seems to know the solution of the problem asking them if they were married. When the three brothers responded positively, the old man said:
“ If you really want to finish the castle, you must swear never to tell your wives what I am going to tell you now. The wife who brings you your food tomorrow you must bury alive in the wall of the castle. Only then will the foundations stay put and last forever. ”
The three brothers swore to not speak with their wives of that happened. However the two eldest brothers broke their promise and quietly told their wives everything, while the honest youngest brother kept his word and said nothing. The mother of the three brothers knew nothing of their agreement, and while the next afternoon at lunch time, she asked her daughters-in-law to bring lunch to the workers, two of them refused with an excuse. The brothers waited anxiously to see which wife was carrying the basket of food. It was ROZAFA, the wife of the youngest brother, who left her younger son at home. Embittered, the youngest brother explained to her what the deal was, that she was to be sacrificed and buried in the wall of the castle so that they could finish building it, and she didn't protest but, worried about her infant son, she accepted being immured and made a request:
“ I have but one request to make. When you wall me in, leave a hole for my right eye, for my right hand, for my right foot and for my right breast. I have a small son. When he starts to cry, I will cheer him up with my right eye, I will comfort him with my right hand, I will put him to sleep with my right foot and wean him with my right breast. Let my breast turn to stone and the castle flourish. May my son become a great hero, ruler of the world.
Photo Studio "Marubbi" was founded in 1856 in Shkodra by painter, sculptor and architect Pietro Marubbi. The National Photo Gallery "Marubi" was created in 1970 after the donation made to the Marubi Gega by his personal archive of three generations, with about 150,000 negatives, to the state. This archive contains negatives of all formats, from 30 cm x 40 cm to 6 cm x 9 cm in glass tiles, from 1858 to 1959. This is one of the richest archives in the Balkans. In it you can find negatives with different themes and figures as diverse as pashals, viziers, Turkish officers and even consuls of different nationalities, Italian, French, Austrian, English, Russian, Greek, Serbian, figures from the War First and Second World and significant Albanian figures such as Luigj Gurakuqi, Fishta, Mjeda, Asdreni, Koliqi, Lasgush Poradeci, Migjeni, Azem and Shote Galica and many other important figures of our national history.
33 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Marubi National Museum of Photography - Muzeu Kombëtar i Fotografisë Marubi
Photo Studio "Marubbi" was founded in 1856 in Shkodra by painter, sculptor and architect Pietro Marubbi. The National Photo Gallery "Marubi" was created in 1970 after the donation made to the Marubi Gega by his personal archive of three generations, with about 150,000 negatives, to the state. This archive contains negatives of all formats, from 30 cm x 40 cm to 6 cm x 9 cm in glass tiles, from 1858 to 1959. This is one of the richest archives in the Balkans. In it you can find negatives with different themes and figures as diverse as pashals, viziers, Turkish officers and even consuls of different nationalities, Italian, French, Austrian, English, Russian, Greek, Serbian, figures from the War First and Second World and significant Albanian figures such as Luigj Gurakuqi, Fishta, Mjeda, Asdreni, Koliqi, Lasgush Poradeci, Migjeni, Azem and Shote Galica and many other important figures of our national history.
The Mesi Bridge is the largest bridge in Albania that remains from the Ottoman period, and as such, is a highly-treasured cultural monument. As its name suggests, the bridge is a central attraction, the most prominent bridge among locals as well as tourists. Voted as the top bridge to visit in Albania, the Mesi Bridge touches the sensibilities of any painter, poet, or photographer. In fact, Edward Lear, in his well-documented journey across Albania in 1848, included it in his gorgeous sketches of the land.
During springs and summers, many locals and tourists take bicycle tours around the area, and upon completing the tour, bathe in the refreshing waters of the river. The natural landscape and the crystalline waters of the river flowing beneath make this bridge a magical sight, a symbol of the unity of nature, humanity, and history.
17 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Mes Bridge (Ura e Mesit)
The Mesi Bridge is the largest bridge in Albania that remains from the Ottoman period, and as such, is a highly-treasured cultural monument. As its name suggests, the bridge is a central attraction, the most prominent bridge among locals as well as tourists. Voted as the top bridge to visit in Albania, the Mesi Bridge touches the sensibilities of any painter, poet, or photographer. In fact, Edward Lear, in his well-documented journey across Albania in 1848, included it in his gorgeous sketches of the land.
During springs and summers, many locals and tourists take bicycle tours around the area, and upon completing the tour, bathe in the refreshing waters of the river. The natural landscape and the crystalline waters of the river flowing beneath make this bridge a magical sight, a symbol of the unity of nature, humanity, and history.
The Lead Mosque was built in 1773 by the Albanian pasha Mehmed Bushati of the noble Bushati family, who was vizier of Pashalik of Scutari at the time. Through this act, he intended to give his city of birth, the feeling of the capital.
The Lead Mosque has an Ottoman architecture, unlike most other mosques in Albania which follow an Arab architecture. It closely mirrors the classical Ottoman architecture of Istanbul, Turkey, which was pioneered by architect Mimar Sinan of the 16th century.
The mosque is built with hewn stones of almost the same size, which creates a pleasant construction symmetry. Stones were brought from the nearby village of Gur i Zi by people who aligned to each other over kilometers passing the stones to reach the construction point.
Mehmed Bushati was personally involved with the construction and stones were incised under his patronage. Almost every day, he stepped down from his residence, the Rozafa Castle, to follow the progress of the works.
The first Imam of the mosque was Haxhi Ahmet Misria, who was of Egyptian origin. He came to Albania after the contacts he had with Mehmed Bushati. After him, other Imams served and also took care of the mosque.
10 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Xhamia e Plumbit
1 Rruga e TabakëveThe Lead Mosque was built in 1773 by the Albanian pasha Mehmed Bushati of the noble Bushati family, who was vizier of Pashalik of Scutari at the time. Through this act, he intended to give his city of birth, the feeling of the capital.
The Lead Mosque has an Ottoman architecture, unlike most other mosques in Albania which follow an Arab architecture. It closely mirrors the classical Ottoman architecture of Istanbul, Turkey, which was pioneered by architect Mimar Sinan of the 16th century.
The mosque is built with hewn stones of almost the same size, which creates a pleasant construction symmetry. Stones were brought from the nearby village of Gur i Zi by people who aligned to each other over kilometers passing the stones to reach the construction point.
Mehmed Bushati was personally involved with the construction and stones were incised under his patronage. Almost every day, he stepped down from his residence, the Rozafa Castle, to follow the progress of the works.
The first Imam of the mosque was Haxhi Ahmet Misria, who was of Egyptian origin. He came to Albania after the contacts he had with Mehmed Bushati. After him, other Imams served and also took care of the mosque.
Shkodër Cathedral (Albanian: Katedralja e Shkodrës, also known as St Stephen's Catholic Cathedral or Kisha e Madhe - the Great Church) is a cathedral in the city of Shkodër in northwestern Albania. The Roman Catholic cathedral is dedicated to Saint Stephen.
During the Siege of Scutari (1912–1913) the cathedral was damaged by the Montenegrin army, particularly the south east side, causing fire in the bell tower. The Cathedral was closed in 1967 and reopened in 1990.
The dedication of this church to Saint Stephen, the first patron saint of the city is dedicated to a preexisting church with that name, now buried in the Rozafa Castle, and on whose remains a mosque was built. Marin Barleti, a notable 16th-century Albanian writer mentions the former church and the saint patron of the city in his Historia de vita et gestis Scanderbegi Epirotarum principis (The story of life and deeds of Skanderbeg, the prince of Epirotes), when he describes the Siege of Shkodra which lasted from 1478 to 25 April 1479 and saw the League of Lezhe helplessly protect the castle from the Ottoman Empire army, until the castle eventually fell in Turkish hands.
During the first three centuries of the Ottoman occupation, the bishops of the city were constrained to live outside the city. In 1762, 5 years after the formation Pashalik of Scutari, the first Albanian Pashalik under the Bushati family, Monsignor Pal Pjeter Kamsi was eventually allowed again to reside in the city.
In 1851, after the faithful had continuously applied for the permission from the Sultan for the building of the church, Abdülmecid I issued the decree.
The dome, firstly built in wood, almost fell off 35 years after the construction, so in 1897 it was replaced by other materials, which are the ones that exist even today. In 1909, Albanian painter Kolë Idromeno, coffered the vault. His paintings in the vault can still be seen today, especially that of Lady of Shkodër, followed by two angels, who are dressed in Shkodër folk costumes. In the background is the city of Shkodër, surrounded by the Rozafa castle.
7 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Kisha E Madhe
Shkodër Cathedral (Albanian: Katedralja e Shkodrës, also known as St Stephen's Catholic Cathedral or Kisha e Madhe - the Great Church) is a cathedral in the city of Shkodër in northwestern Albania. The Roman Catholic cathedral is dedicated to Saint Stephen.
During the Siege of Scutari (1912–1913) the cathedral was damaged by the Montenegrin army, particularly the south east side, causing fire in the bell tower. The Cathedral was closed in 1967 and reopened in 1990.
The dedication of this church to Saint Stephen, the first patron saint of the city is dedicated to a preexisting church with that name, now buried in the Rozafa Castle, and on whose remains a mosque was built. Marin Barleti, a notable 16th-century Albanian writer mentions the former church and the saint patron of the city in his Historia de vita et gestis Scanderbegi Epirotarum principis (The story of life and deeds of Skanderbeg, the prince of Epirotes), when he describes the Siege of Shkodra which lasted from 1478 to 25 April 1479 and saw the League of Lezhe helplessly protect the castle from the Ottoman Empire army, until the castle eventually fell in Turkish hands.
During the first three centuries of the Ottoman occupation, the bishops of the city were constrained to live outside the city. In 1762, 5 years after the formation Pashalik of Scutari, the first Albanian Pashalik under the Bushati family, Monsignor Pal Pjeter Kamsi was eventually allowed again to reside in the city.
In 1851, after the faithful had continuously applied for the permission from the Sultan for the building of the church, Abdülmecid I issued the decree.
The dome, firstly built in wood, almost fell off 35 years after the construction, so in 1897 it was replaced by other materials, which are the ones that exist even today. In 1909, Albanian painter Kolë Idromeno, coffered the vault. His paintings in the vault can still be seen today, especially that of Lady of Shkodër, followed by two angels, who are dressed in Shkodër folk costumes. In the background is the city of Shkodër, surrounded by the Rozafa castle.
The Promenade in Shkodra captures some of the European aesthetic experience with its decorative and delicate designs, that pave the historic street of this artistically-infused city.
Just a few meters short of 1km in length at 800m long, the Promenade in Shkodra is paved entirely with beautifully-decorated cobblestones. Recently-renovated, this promenade recalls the architecture of ages gone by, when there was arguably a greater appreciation for time and patience when crafting things of lasting beauty. As a result, this picturesque promenade reflects this time, beauty, and quietude of the ones who tread on it.
The Promenade has become one of the most alluring touristic attractions in the country in recent years. Much like in the revered walkways of many old European towns, here the old and the new seamlessly align. Locals and tourists walk along it to the rhythms of music, their constant companion on this bustling avenue. This street has always been one of the city’s most populated, since its construction during the 20thcentury.
The Promenade in Shkodra owes its peculiar beauty to Kolë Idromeno, the most renowned painter from the city, and creative force behind its design. The talented artist painted the town with a Venetian-inspired aesthetic, whilst carefully leaving many of the traditional local elements in place. As a student in Venice in the 20th century, he became fascinated with the glowing, alluring atmosphere of the great Italian city, and decided to bring some of that magic to his home town. Today, the pleasant low-rise buildings, pretty gardens, decorated windowsills, narrow cobblestone alleys, and the glow of the evening lamps combine to inspire an intense sensory experience, and leave an extremely memorable aftertaste.
The promenade connects the city centre with the Museum of History. This road is filled to the brim with street artists, alongside a huge variety art and photography shops and studios. Among them, you’ll see the impressive, newly-renovated Marubi National Museum of Photography, a beautiful symbol of modern architecture which contains the oldest, most extensive collection of Albanian photography in the country. It also includes the first-ever photograph of Albania, taken in 1858 by Pjetër Marubi. In addition to the history of the famed family of photographers, the Marubis, the museum hosts excellent contemporary exhibitions.
The centre of the town forks into two separate boulevards where the traditional old houses from the 1800s beautifully intermingle with the new ones. On the right, the traditional houses line up along the street to create an almost open-air museum, alongside the oldest neighbourhood in town. These Venetian-style, two-story houses create a distinctive atmosphere within this famed northern city, one that is equally Albanian, as it is more universal..
This magical street is truly an artistic journey through space and time. Albania, Venice, modern art and architecture and the old, the music, and the people all intersect at this magnificent point in the north of the country. Walking along it you feel simultaneously everywhere, yet also precisely at this place – here on the Shkodra Promenade!
11 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Pedonalja
The Promenade in Shkodra captures some of the European aesthetic experience with its decorative and delicate designs, that pave the historic street of this artistically-infused city.
Just a few meters short of 1km in length at 800m long, the Promenade in Shkodra is paved entirely with beautifully-decorated cobblestones. Recently-renovated, this promenade recalls the architecture of ages gone by, when there was arguably a greater appreciation for time and patience when crafting things of lasting beauty. As a result, this picturesque promenade reflects this time, beauty, and quietude of the ones who tread on it.
The Promenade has become one of the most alluring touristic attractions in the country in recent years. Much like in the revered walkways of many old European towns, here the old and the new seamlessly align. Locals and tourists walk along it to the rhythms of music, their constant companion on this bustling avenue. This street has always been one of the city’s most populated, since its construction during the 20thcentury.
The Promenade in Shkodra owes its peculiar beauty to Kolë Idromeno, the most renowned painter from the city, and creative force behind its design. The talented artist painted the town with a Venetian-inspired aesthetic, whilst carefully leaving many of the traditional local elements in place. As a student in Venice in the 20th century, he became fascinated with the glowing, alluring atmosphere of the great Italian city, and decided to bring some of that magic to his home town. Today, the pleasant low-rise buildings, pretty gardens, decorated windowsills, narrow cobblestone alleys, and the glow of the evening lamps combine to inspire an intense sensory experience, and leave an extremely memorable aftertaste.
The promenade connects the city centre with the Museum of History. This road is filled to the brim with street artists, alongside a huge variety art and photography shops and studios. Among them, you’ll see the impressive, newly-renovated Marubi National Museum of Photography, a beautiful symbol of modern architecture which contains the oldest, most extensive collection of Albanian photography in the country. It also includes the first-ever photograph of Albania, taken in 1858 by Pjetër Marubi. In addition to the history of the famed family of photographers, the Marubis, the museum hosts excellent contemporary exhibitions.
The centre of the town forks into two separate boulevards where the traditional old houses from the 1800s beautifully intermingle with the new ones. On the right, the traditional houses line up along the street to create an almost open-air museum, alongside the oldest neighbourhood in town. These Venetian-style, two-story houses create a distinctive atmosphere within this famed northern city, one that is equally Albanian, as it is more universal..
This magical street is truly an artistic journey through space and time. Albania, Venice, modern art and architecture and the old, the music, and the people all intersect at this magnificent point in the north of the country. Walking along it you feel simultaneously everywhere, yet also precisely at this place – here on the Shkodra Promenade!
With its rich variety of plant and animal species, and breathtaking views, the legendary Shkodra Lake is the ideal place to get in touch with Albanian nature. It’s also an excellent alternative beach hot spot during the warm summer months.
In the Northwest of Albania lies the beautiful Shkodra Lake, the largest in the Balkan Peninsula, and one of the many natural wonders of this part of the country. With a vast surface area of 368 km2, the lake stretches beyond the country and across the border with Montenegro, with 149 km2 of it lying in Albania. The lake beautifully frames the historic and artistic city of Shkodra, a calming and refreshing area, reflecting effect of the water which gracefully surrounds it.
Fully immerse yourself
Perhaps the best way to experience the beauty of Shkodra Lake is by travelling along the road to Shiroka, where you’ll traverse the gorgeous Buna River delta. While you can drive along this road, many adventurers choose to cycle, or join a bike tour in order to fully immerse themselves in its idyllic natural beauty. In the summers, several spots along the lake’s shoreline serve as wonderful alternatives to the beaches along the coast – with its crystal clear waters, and close proximity to the city! While you are here, you should definitely try the restaurants lined up along the waterline, which serve the famous local carp from the lake in all kinds of delicious dishes.
Birdwatching paradise
Shkodra Lake is also the ideal spot for avid birdwatchers, hosting an impressive 270 distinct species – in fact, almost 80% of all the bird species that can be found in Albania are found here, including seagulls, pelicans, cranes, and eagles, to name but a few of the menagerie of feathered creatures that can be spotted here.
Bird-watching paradise
Shkodra Lake is also the ideal spot for avid birdwatchers, hosting an impressive 270 distinct species – in fact, almost 80% of all the bird species that can be found in Albania are found here, including seagulls, pelicans, cranes, and eagles, to name but a few of the menagerie of feathered creatures that can be spotted here.
Liqeni i Shkodrës (Lake Shkodër in Albanian)
With its rich variety of plant and animal species, and breathtaking views, the legendary Shkodra Lake is the ideal place to get in touch with Albanian nature. It’s also an excellent alternative beach hot spot during the warm summer months.
In the Northwest of Albania lies the beautiful Shkodra Lake, the largest in the Balkan Peninsula, and one of the many natural wonders of this part of the country. With a vast surface area of 368 km2, the lake stretches beyond the country and across the border with Montenegro, with 149 km2 of it lying in Albania. The lake beautifully frames the historic and artistic city of Shkodra, a calming and refreshing area, reflecting effect of the water which gracefully surrounds it.
Fully immerse yourself
Perhaps the best way to experience the beauty of Shkodra Lake is by travelling along the road to Shiroka, where you’ll traverse the gorgeous Buna River delta. While you can drive along this road, many adventurers choose to cycle, or join a bike tour in order to fully immerse themselves in its idyllic natural beauty. In the summers, several spots along the lake’s shoreline serve as wonderful alternatives to the beaches along the coast – with its crystal clear waters, and close proximity to the city! While you are here, you should definitely try the restaurants lined up along the waterline, which serve the famous local carp from the lake in all kinds of delicious dishes.
Birdwatching paradise
Shkodra Lake is also the ideal spot for avid birdwatchers, hosting an impressive 270 distinct species – in fact, almost 80% of all the bird species that can be found in Albania are found here, including seagulls, pelicans, cranes, and eagles, to name but a few of the menagerie of feathered creatures that can be spotted here.
Bird-watching paradise
Shkodra Lake is also the ideal spot for avid birdwatchers, hosting an impressive 270 distinct species – in fact, almost 80% of all the bird species that can be found in Albania are found here, including seagulls, pelicans, cranes, and eagles, to name but a few of the menagerie of feathered creatures that can be spotted here.
Shiroka, one of the stunning northern beauties appears as a fresco with lake, mountain and fresh air. Day breakers, mainly from Shkodra, are those who frequent the tourist area, at the foot of Mount Taraboshi. Only 4 kilometers from the city of Shkodra, after leaving the "Buna Bridge" and taking the road to the right is Shiroka, one of the most special neighborhoods in the northern capital. The fresh air, coming from the depths of the Alps, is filtered into the lake waters and comes healthy here, at the foot of the Taraboshi Mountain, making Shiroka one of the most special lures to spend a few hours different for Shkodra, but also tourists from all Albanian territories and beyond. Investments in recent years have changed the site, giving it a new path, pedaling the lake shores, rehabilitating small beaches and soon this resort will also have a sailing boat port. Most beachgoers use bicycles to get there, an opportunity created by the beach's affinity with the city. Citizens of Shkodra themselves are also pleased about the return of Shiroka mass attendance. All this influx of visitors has definitely given an impact to the business field, whose investments in the area have increased in recent years. This is the real Shiroka, she's getting her old friends back. Shiroka has a magnificent view of about 360 sq km of water and crowned mountains on the side, of a long border between Shkodra and Podgorica, and the Albanian siege of Kraj in Montenegro and of Koplik and Bajza. The village of Shiroka, today a neighborhood of the city, has hundreds of years of history and this can be confirmed by some archaeological discoveries made in its vicinity, in a place called "its own olive", in 1959, which are today in the city museum. Further evidence is the old walls along the newly constructed new road. Known for its curative skills in Europe in the 19th century, Shiroka would soon become one of the most famous areas in the country, before the 1990s and beyond. Shiroka's story is fascinating, it is a separate love for Shkodra. Many species of plants, fish, birds and animals live in harmony in this tourist area. Most of the fauna consists of birds. There are a total of 240 species, with the eye most often encountered by seagulls. For fishing lovers the aquatic fauna offers about 65 species of fish. The most famous are carp, carass, knee etc. This richness of fauna and flora makes this area a very unique and attractive ecosystem.
20 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Shiroka
Shiroka, one of the stunning northern beauties appears as a fresco with lake, mountain and fresh air. Day breakers, mainly from Shkodra, are those who frequent the tourist area, at the foot of Mount Taraboshi. Only 4 kilometers from the city of Shkodra, after leaving the "Buna Bridge" and taking the road to the right is Shiroka, one of the most special neighborhoods in the northern capital. The fresh air, coming from the depths of the Alps, is filtered into the lake waters and comes healthy here, at the foot of the Taraboshi Mountain, making Shiroka one of the most special lures to spend a few hours different for Shkodra, but also tourists from all Albanian territories and beyond. Investments in recent years have changed the site, giving it a new path, pedaling the lake shores, rehabilitating small beaches and soon this resort will also have a sailing boat port. Most beachgoers use bicycles to get there, an opportunity created by the beach's affinity with the city. Citizens of Shkodra themselves are also pleased about the return of Shiroka mass attendance. All this influx of visitors has definitely given an impact to the business field, whose investments in the area have increased in recent years. This is the real Shiroka, she's getting her old friends back. Shiroka has a magnificent view of about 360 sq km of water and crowned mountains on the side, of a long border between Shkodra and Podgorica, and the Albanian siege of Kraj in Montenegro and of Koplik and Bajza. The village of Shiroka, today a neighborhood of the city, has hundreds of years of history and this can be confirmed by some archaeological discoveries made in its vicinity, in a place called "its own olive", in 1959, which are today in the city museum. Further evidence is the old walls along the newly constructed new road. Known for its curative skills in Europe in the 19th century, Shiroka would soon become one of the most famous areas in the country, before the 1990s and beyond. Shiroka's story is fascinating, it is a separate love for Shkodra. Many species of plants, fish, birds and animals live in harmony in this tourist area. Most of the fauna consists of birds. There are a total of 240 species, with the eye most often encountered by seagulls. For fishing lovers the aquatic fauna offers about 65 species of fish. The most famous are carp, carass, knee etc. This richness of fauna and flora makes this area a very unique and attractive ecosystem.
The Site of Witness and Memory is the only memorial which commemorates the victims of the communist regime from Shkodra.
Being one of the main centers of Communist repression in Albania, the city where an Atheist Museum with anti-religious propaganda was built after the Cultural Revolution of 1967, this museum tells the story of people who suffered for their beliefs and moral integrity.
It has been rebuilt in the area of former Dega e Brendshme (local branches of the Ministry of Interiors). The most interesting part are the original pre-trail holding cells with a small opening for natural light, commonly called holes (because of their small dimension and few light) where prisoners were kept and tortured until their initial trial appearance.
Near the cells, there is a courtyard where prisoners were kept during their out-of-cell time. Here we also find a small door which connected the prison area to the nearby offices of Dega e Brendshme, where the most violent tortures were inflicted.
The passage to the cells runs through a newly-built gallery with elements symbolizing torture and pain. At the end of this gallery, we find exposition room with objects used and produced in prison, manuscripts, letter-writing between prisoners and their families.
This small collection has been donated by former political prisoners and their families. Of great interest is the glass panel in this room which shows some documents of time stating the force and brutality of the regime towards Shkodra people.
Other important spaces offered are the audio-visual room where you can watch some video materials of the time and a small library with prison literature, provided by the Institute for Communism Crimes and Consequences in Albania.
Our mission is to create a collective memory of the past, to address new generation who should become aware of the past mistakes and never repeat them again.
11 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Site of Witness and Memory
Bulevardi SkënderbeuThe Site of Witness and Memory is the only memorial which commemorates the victims of the communist regime from Shkodra.
Being one of the main centers of Communist repression in Albania, the city where an Atheist Museum with anti-religious propaganda was built after the Cultural Revolution of 1967, this museum tells the story of people who suffered for their beliefs and moral integrity.
It has been rebuilt in the area of former Dega e Brendshme (local branches of the Ministry of Interiors). The most interesting part are the original pre-trail holding cells with a small opening for natural light, commonly called holes (because of their small dimension and few light) where prisoners were kept and tortured until their initial trial appearance.
Near the cells, there is a courtyard where prisoners were kept during their out-of-cell time. Here we also find a small door which connected the prison area to the nearby offices of Dega e Brendshme, where the most violent tortures were inflicted.
The passage to the cells runs through a newly-built gallery with elements symbolizing torture and pain. At the end of this gallery, we find exposition room with objects used and produced in prison, manuscripts, letter-writing between prisoners and their families.
This small collection has been donated by former political prisoners and their families. Of great interest is the glass panel in this room which shows some documents of time stating the force and brutality of the regime towards Shkodra people.
Other important spaces offered are the audio-visual room where you can watch some video materials of the time and a small library with prison literature, provided by the Institute for Communism Crimes and Consequences in Albania.
Our mission is to create a collective memory of the past, to address new generation who should become aware of the past mistakes and never repeat them again.
The first Orthodox church in Shkodra , until the end of the XVIII century, was beyond Buna , in the old Kasena neighborhood, where the ruins of St. Koll church, built by Helen of Serbia, were found. Generally, the cult objects in Shkodra were built thanks to the financial help of the believers themselves.
The only exception to this is the mosque, which has, for the most part, been built by wealthy family leaders who baptized their gods in their own names. The Orthodox of Shkodra, - even today few in number - nearly 200 years ago, after raising a large sum of money to build their church, turned to the Russian consul in Shkodra for the latter to intervene near Tsar. aided by funds, as those collected during the four years of the campaign were sufficient. Alexander Nevsky, the then czar of Russia (later a saint and National Hero of the Eurasian giant), immediately sent the necessary sum.
After securing the edict from Sultan Majid, the Orthodox began work on building the Church, on whose walls, completed four years later, was also an icon with the appearance of the generous Russian tsar, a work brought to Russia by today. it is no more.
There was a great deal of confusion in Shkodra among Orthodox believers over the appointment of a pop Jepto, judged by the majority to be inappropriate. This conflict culminated in the beating of some individuals (including Migjen's father) by the Orthodox priest protected by Aleks Popovic. Just the first day Jefto would go to church, opposed to his appointment, prompted by Filip Berovic, beat the priest to death, leading to a sharpening of the conflict. Jefto was then required to be educated, which was accomplished by sending him to Prizren.
"Pop Jefto went there and, after completing his religious studies, he returned to Shkodra with the Vlachs of that country. Since the beat of Pop Jefto three years ago was not forgotten by his supporters, they took action against Berovic. it is suggested to Vladica that in the first sermon, Vladika would curse the Beroviks or to communicate with the brother Berovi.. his, Nicholas, and armed with two guns, as well as Migjen's father, both of whom go to church to prepare for an assassination: if Vladica had fun with cursing the Berovic, they would have killed her there. This, we warned him about what was going to happen, did not address this issue at all.By that day the objections were closed and the church continued to open with Jepton pop and generation after generation. "
The Orthodox Church was destroyed, at the height of the atheist campaign, on June 10, 1967. For nearly 30 years, Orthodox believers, like all other faiths, had neither the right nor the right to practice their faith. In 1990 - '91, with the opportunities offered by democracy, freedom of religion became a reality for Catholic believers as well. They then built a small church behind the bank building, a church that did not last long after it was burned, for reasons not yet clear.
More recently, the Orthodox Church has risen to where it was before the beginning of this century, across the Buna, over the ruins of St. Koll.
Nativity of Christ
39 Rruga Hasan Riza PashaThe first Orthodox church in Shkodra , until the end of the XVIII century, was beyond Buna , in the old Kasena neighborhood, where the ruins of St. Koll church, built by Helen of Serbia, were found. Generally, the cult objects in Shkodra were built thanks to the financial help of the believers themselves.
The only exception to this is the mosque, which has, for the most part, been built by wealthy family leaders who baptized their gods in their own names. The Orthodox of Shkodra, - even today few in number - nearly 200 years ago, after raising a large sum of money to build their church, turned to the Russian consul in Shkodra for the latter to intervene near Tsar. aided by funds, as those collected during the four years of the campaign were sufficient. Alexander Nevsky, the then czar of Russia (later a saint and National Hero of the Eurasian giant), immediately sent the necessary sum.
After securing the edict from Sultan Majid, the Orthodox began work on building the Church, on whose walls, completed four years later, was also an icon with the appearance of the generous Russian tsar, a work brought to Russia by today. it is no more.
There was a great deal of confusion in Shkodra among Orthodox believers over the appointment of a pop Jepto, judged by the majority to be inappropriate. This conflict culminated in the beating of some individuals (including Migjen's father) by the Orthodox priest protected by Aleks Popovic. Just the first day Jefto would go to church, opposed to his appointment, prompted by Filip Berovic, beat the priest to death, leading to a sharpening of the conflict. Jefto was then required to be educated, which was accomplished by sending him to Prizren.
"Pop Jefto went there and, after completing his religious studies, he returned to Shkodra with the Vlachs of that country. Since the beat of Pop Jefto three years ago was not forgotten by his supporters, they took action against Berovic. it is suggested to Vladica that in the first sermon, Vladika would curse the Beroviks or to communicate with the brother Berovi.. his, Nicholas, and armed with two guns, as well as Migjen's father, both of whom go to church to prepare for an assassination: if Vladica had fun with cursing the Berovic, they would have killed her there. This, we warned him about what was going to happen, did not address this issue at all.By that day the objections were closed and the church continued to open with Jepton pop and generation after generation. "
The Orthodox Church was destroyed, at the height of the atheist campaign, on June 10, 1967. For nearly 30 years, Orthodox believers, like all other faiths, had neither the right nor the right to practice their faith. In 1990 - '91, with the opportunities offered by democracy, freedom of religion became a reality for Catholic believers as well. They then built a small church behind the bank building, a church that did not last long after it was burned, for reasons not yet clear.
More recently, the Orthodox Church has risen to where it was before the beginning of this century, across the Buna, over the ruins of St. Koll.
The Abu Bakr Mosque, also known as the Great Mosque, is the main mosque of the city of Shkodra in Albania.
The mosque was designed by the architectural bureau ARC Architectural Consultants and was built between 1994 and 1995 at the site of the former Fushe Çela mosque. It is named after Abu Bakr (572–634), the first caliph after the Prophet Muhammad. The inauguration of the mosque took place on October 27, 1995, and was renovated in 2008.
The mosque, which today stands at the bottom of the pedestal, offers with its new space 622.72 m2 sufficient space for 1,300 worshipers. The two minarets are 41.11 meters high. The central dome has a height of 24 meters.
The Mosque of Fushë Çela, built during the Ottoman rule and destroyed during the communist dictatorship in Albania, had in the previous centuries great importance for Shkodra and its surroundings: the former mosque was one of the most beautiful mosques in Shkodra and among most visited, as well as its madrasa.
Xhamia e Madhe - Ebu Bekr mosque
1 Rruga Fushë CeleThe Abu Bakr Mosque, also known as the Great Mosque, is the main mosque of the city of Shkodra in Albania.
The mosque was designed by the architectural bureau ARC Architectural Consultants and was built between 1994 and 1995 at the site of the former Fushe Çela mosque. It is named after Abu Bakr (572–634), the first caliph after the Prophet Muhammad. The inauguration of the mosque took place on October 27, 1995, and was renovated in 2008.
The mosque, which today stands at the bottom of the pedestal, offers with its new space 622.72 m2 sufficient space for 1,300 worshipers. The two minarets are 41.11 meters high. The central dome has a height of 24 meters.
The Mosque of Fushë Çela, built during the Ottoman rule and destroyed during the communist dictatorship in Albania, had in the previous centuries great importance for Shkodra and its surroundings: the former mosque was one of the most beautiful mosques in Shkodra and among most visited, as well as its madrasa.
Food scene
Vila Bekteshi
33 Rruga Hasan Riza PashaBar Restaurant Elita
Cliché Bar & Bistro Shkoder
Rruga 28 NëntoriPEJA Grill - Slow Food
Bulevardi SkënderbeuRestaurant Illyria
SH41Bar Restaurant San Francisco
Rruga Kolë IdromenoFish Art
Sheshi 2 PrilliRestaurant "Taverna Ulqini"
Rruga Komiteti i Kosovës
Restaurant Arbri
B7 Zogaj
Rruga ZogajNight Life
Shega e Eger
Rruga G'juhadol
Astoria Club
Rruga Kolë Idromeno
Rruga Kolë Idromeno
Rruga Kolë IdromenoRETRO - Pub & Grill
Rruga Kolë Idromeno
ORO Lounge
20 Rruga Vilson
MANIFATURA
Rruga 28 Nëntori
Kultura Pub & Bistro
Rruga G'juhadolSherlock Pub
4001 Rruga BerdicejParks & Nature
Only 43 km from the city of Shkodra, in the heart of the Albanian Alps, 50m from Thethi in the North-East, 100 km from Vermoshi in the North-West, lying at an altitude of 900 meters above sea level, the tourist spot of Razma is one of the rediscovery of mountain tourism. A rediscovery because it was first declared a tourist area in 1935, by King Zog and several wealthy Shkodra families built the first tourist homes in the area.
Historically this area has been a hike for the north of the area around the village of Vrith and has been used by many traders from the city of Shkodra. One of the most beautiful mountainous places of Albania that has been discovered since the 20th century. XIX by foreigners. The first to appreciate its beauty and natural richness were Italian botanist Antonio Baldoci, Austrian Dofler, and geologist Boran Nopce.
Around the 1920s , shepherds began to use summer stables, and as living standards increased, Shkodra traders built their summer houses there. In 1953 the area was nationalized and a workers' rest camp was established which lasted until 1990 . During this period, the area was used as a summer camp for workers and as excursions for winter.
The total area is 3680 hectares. Razma's tourist zone, unlike other tourist areas of the Alps , lies on a karst plateau, which presents startling contrasts in relief, between largely pyramidal peaks and karstic, glacial-karstic holes covered by alpine pastures.
11 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Razëm
Only 43 km from the city of Shkodra, in the heart of the Albanian Alps, 50m from Thethi in the North-East, 100 km from Vermoshi in the North-West, lying at an altitude of 900 meters above sea level, the tourist spot of Razma is one of the rediscovery of mountain tourism. A rediscovery because it was first declared a tourist area in 1935, by King Zog and several wealthy Shkodra families built the first tourist homes in the area.
Historically this area has been a hike for the north of the area around the village of Vrith and has been used by many traders from the city of Shkodra. One of the most beautiful mountainous places of Albania that has been discovered since the 20th century. XIX by foreigners. The first to appreciate its beauty and natural richness were Italian botanist Antonio Baldoci, Austrian Dofler, and geologist Boran Nopce.
Around the 1920s , shepherds began to use summer stables, and as living standards increased, Shkodra traders built their summer houses there. In 1953 the area was nationalized and a workers' rest camp was established which lasted until 1990 . During this period, the area was used as a summer camp for workers and as excursions for winter.
The total area is 3680 hectares. Razma's tourist zone, unlike other tourist areas of the Alps , lies on a karst plateau, which presents startling contrasts in relief, between largely pyramidal peaks and karstic, glacial-karstic holes covered by alpine pastures.
Shurdhah Island is an island on Lake Vau-Dejes, which is fed and drained by the river Drin, in Northeastern Albania, in Shkodra District. It is the largest island in the reservoir. From the most northern tip of the island to the most southern tip of it, it has an estimated length of 390 m (1,280 ft). It is mainly covered by trees. It is accessible by tourist boat in summer from the Vau i Dejës dam or Rragam.
Before 1973, when the dam was completed, the island was a hill on the left bank of the river Drin. It contains the ruins of the medieval town of Sarda. The town was strategically located on the old road from Shkodër to Gjakova. Sarda was founded in the 6th-8th century BC, and foundations of a Roman fort have been discovered here. The earliest remains date from the 6th-8th century AD. It gained its highest importance in the 12th century, when it was the seat of the bishop of Sapa and Sarda. It was ravaged by the Ottomans in 1491. Now you can visit the ruins of the 11th-century medieval castle, which includes two rings of defensive walls and towers (some submerged in the lake), the remains of a Byzantine church and other early medieval walls. The setting on the steep rocks rising from the lake is especially impressive.
Shurdhah Island
Shurdhah Island is an island on Lake Vau-Dejes, which is fed and drained by the river Drin, in Northeastern Albania, in Shkodra District. It is the largest island in the reservoir. From the most northern tip of the island to the most southern tip of it, it has an estimated length of 390 m (1,280 ft). It is mainly covered by trees. It is accessible by tourist boat in summer from the Vau i Dejës dam or Rragam.
Before 1973, when the dam was completed, the island was a hill on the left bank of the river Drin. It contains the ruins of the medieval town of Sarda. The town was strategically located on the old road from Shkodër to Gjakova. Sarda was founded in the 6th-8th century BC, and foundations of a Roman fort have been discovered here. The earliest remains date from the 6th-8th century AD. It gained its highest importance in the 12th century, when it was the seat of the bishop of Sapa and Sarda. It was ravaged by the Ottomans in 1491. Now you can visit the ruins of the 11th-century medieval castle, which includes two rings of defensive walls and towers (some submerged in the lake), the remains of a Byzantine church and other early medieval walls. The setting on the steep rocks rising from the lake is especially impressive.
Theth National Park combines the beauty of mountains with majestic rivers, stunning waterfalls and lagoons as blue as one could ever imagine. No mere picture will do justice to its true beauty, you must experience Theth in the flesh!
“Paradise is here, my good man. God, give me no other paradise!” This passage, from Nikos Kazantzakis’ Freedom and Death, rings particularly true when you find yourself in the midst of Theth National Park. Surrounded by rugged mountains, enwreathed with nature of the highest magnificence, Theth may resemble a postcard but this is as real as it gets!
Your Journey to Theth
Nestled amongst the Albanian Alps, Theth National Park covers a vast and sprawling area of 26.3km2. It must be said that Theth is not for the weak-hearted, and we do mean that! Getting there is the trick and any enthusiastic tourist can choose one of two quite varied journeys. The first is the most comfortable, this route is by car and takes you through Shkodra. You do get the views from your vehicle but it’s not exactly the full Theth experience. That brings us to the second journey, this one is by foot, it’s much more demanding but unquestionably more rewarding. This 6 to 7-hour journey involves climbing the Valbona Pass by foot, and do not take it lightly when we tell you, it takes you mountain high (literally and figuratively).
You’ve arrived, and here begins the part where you may need to pinch yourself. Two spectacular peaks loom above Theth National Park: Jezerca and the Accursed Mountains. Once upon a time the latter was famed for housing nymphs, goddesses and other mythical beings. To the more cynical minded traveller these myths might seem farcical, but what cannot be denied is the magical and otherworldly views that inhabit Theth National Park.
What Awaits You?
The gorgeous spectacle of the Shala River flowing and meandering through the area, is truly something to behold. You’ll find water features aplenty in the vicinity and it goes without saying that the Waterfall of Grunas (or Theth) is an impressive sight with a 30m high cascade of plunging water. The rugged and narrow canyon of Grunas in close proximity adds to the magical atmosphere, with crystalline waters running through it for more than a kilometre. Upon crossing the canyon, a 30 to 40-minute hike will take you into the heart of the village Ndërlys. It’s in this village that you will discover Vaskat e Gurit (literally ‘Stone Bathtubs’), awe-inspiring rock formations carved out by the Black River set amongst crystal-clear turquoise waters. Post-hike, there is no better place to take a refreshing dip!.
The Black River descending from the village of Kaprre, creates yet another majestic pool: The Blue Eye of Theth. With a rich-blue hue and surrounded by lush greenery, it’s a magical sight. A calm stream descends from the mountains above, an abandoned tower adds a finishing touch to this gorgeous and remarkable location. Do not fear, there are plenty of rest spots along your journey where you can relax and recuperate some energy. Roast lamb, warm homemade bread, cheese, yogurt, butter, honey and all manner of homegrown fruits and vegetables are there for your mid-hike cravings, masterfully prepared and served by the families of the nearby guesthouses. This is feel-good Albanian food & hospitality, of which you will never forget.
An Inspiration to All Who Visit
Other noteworthy destinations to visit when in Theth National Park include the Church of Theth, the Prison Tower (Kulla e Ngujimit), the Cave of Theth, the Waterfall of Gjeçaj, and the Lake of the Peja Pass, to name but a few. Ismail Kadare, the renowned Albanian author, dedicated his poem “Accursed Mountains” to this exact place, and indeed to Albania for possessing such “unknown” miracles:
12 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Thethi National Park
Rruga NikgjonajTheth National Park combines the beauty of mountains with majestic rivers, stunning waterfalls and lagoons as blue as one could ever imagine. No mere picture will do justice to its true beauty, you must experience Theth in the flesh!
“Paradise is here, my good man. God, give me no other paradise!” This passage, from Nikos Kazantzakis’ Freedom and Death, rings particularly true when you find yourself in the midst of Theth National Park. Surrounded by rugged mountains, enwreathed with nature of the highest magnificence, Theth may resemble a postcard but this is as real as it gets!
Your Journey to Theth
Nestled amongst the Albanian Alps, Theth National Park covers a vast and sprawling area of 26.3km2. It must be said that Theth is not for the weak-hearted, and we do mean that! Getting there is the trick and any enthusiastic tourist can choose one of two quite varied journeys. The first is the most comfortable, this route is by car and takes you through Shkodra. You do get the views from your vehicle but it’s not exactly the full Theth experience. That brings us to the second journey, this one is by foot, it’s much more demanding but unquestionably more rewarding. This 6 to 7-hour journey involves climbing the Valbona Pass by foot, and do not take it lightly when we tell you, it takes you mountain high (literally and figuratively).
You’ve arrived, and here begins the part where you may need to pinch yourself. Two spectacular peaks loom above Theth National Park: Jezerca and the Accursed Mountains. Once upon a time the latter was famed for housing nymphs, goddesses and other mythical beings. To the more cynical minded traveller these myths might seem farcical, but what cannot be denied is the magical and otherworldly views that inhabit Theth National Park.
What Awaits You?
The gorgeous spectacle of the Shala River flowing and meandering through the area, is truly something to behold. You’ll find water features aplenty in the vicinity and it goes without saying that the Waterfall of Grunas (or Theth) is an impressive sight with a 30m high cascade of plunging water. The rugged and narrow canyon of Grunas in close proximity adds to the magical atmosphere, with crystalline waters running through it for more than a kilometre. Upon crossing the canyon, a 30 to 40-minute hike will take you into the heart of the village Ndërlys. It’s in this village that you will discover Vaskat e Gurit (literally ‘Stone Bathtubs’), awe-inspiring rock formations carved out by the Black River set amongst crystal-clear turquoise waters. Post-hike, there is no better place to take a refreshing dip!.
The Black River descending from the village of Kaprre, creates yet another majestic pool: The Blue Eye of Theth. With a rich-blue hue and surrounded by lush greenery, it’s a magical sight. A calm stream descends from the mountains above, an abandoned tower adds a finishing touch to this gorgeous and remarkable location. Do not fear, there are plenty of rest spots along your journey where you can relax and recuperate some energy. Roast lamb, warm homemade bread, cheese, yogurt, butter, honey and all manner of homegrown fruits and vegetables are there for your mid-hike cravings, masterfully prepared and served by the families of the nearby guesthouses. This is feel-good Albanian food & hospitality, of which you will never forget.
An Inspiration to All Who Visit
Other noteworthy destinations to visit when in Theth National Park include the Church of Theth, the Prison Tower (Kulla e Ngujimit), the Cave of Theth, the Waterfall of Gjeçaj, and the Lake of the Peja Pass, to name but a few. Ismail Kadare, the renowned Albanian author, dedicated his poem “Accursed Mountains” to this exact place, and indeed to Albania for possessing such “unknown” miracles:
Taking a boat ride on Koman Lake makes you feel so tiny next to the huge mountains around you. The views are absolutely stunning and you cannot get tired of them. It's the nicest way to go if you are headed to Valbona in the mountains.
Lake Koman was formed when the rugged Drini valley was dammed in the early 1970s, allowing Albania to quickly develop its own industrial base and become an energy exporter. The huge lake behind the VauDejes dam contains some 320 million cubic meters of water, and stretches 30 km eastward to the town of Fierza, the location of a second dam which holds back another lake that goes all the way to Kukes near the Kosovo border. The boat trip passes between 1000-1500m-high mountains and through a series of deep gorgeous and interconnected lakes, with hardly any signs of human activities on the shores – though occasionally the ferry will stop to let off some hardy peasants, who proceed to climb up the steep hills to their hidden villages. The wild landscape is somewhat reminiscent of the Norwegian fjords, and is a dramatic highlight of any trip in Albania.
8 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Komani Lake
Taking a boat ride on Koman Lake makes you feel so tiny next to the huge mountains around you. The views are absolutely stunning and you cannot get tired of them. It's the nicest way to go if you are headed to Valbona in the mountains.
Lake Koman was formed when the rugged Drini valley was dammed in the early 1970s, allowing Albania to quickly develop its own industrial base and become an energy exporter. The huge lake behind the VauDejes dam contains some 320 million cubic meters of water, and stretches 30 km eastward to the town of Fierza, the location of a second dam which holds back another lake that goes all the way to Kukes near the Kosovo border. The boat trip passes between 1000-1500m-high mountains and through a series of deep gorgeous and interconnected lakes, with hardly any signs of human activities on the shores – though occasionally the ferry will stop to let off some hardy peasants, who proceed to climb up the steep hills to their hidden villages. The wild landscape is somewhat reminiscent of the Norwegian fjords, and is a dramatic highlight of any trip in Albania.
The village of Zogaj, a fishing village at the foot of the Taraboshi Mountain border with Montenegro, has been an elite tourist center since the Nineteenth Century. The area was especially attractive for the serene and beautiful nature with many birds.
The shores of Lake Shkodra at this point become rocky and craggy, the water is deep and clear, which makes Zogaj a suitable place for a beach. The surrounding countryside is full of soft geese, fish of various species and wild birds, products that have long been made gastronomic symbols of the area.
In the 1930s King Ahmet Zogu built a huge residential villa for himself and his family while during Communism, the village was a forbidden area where people were closely monitored when they visited. The villa turned into a holiday camp and some kiosks were added but overall, the village disappeared from the map of Albania's tourist sites. On the only bridge of Buna under Communism, a police checkpoint threatened passers-by to check the identity of passers-by on suspicion of finding anyone trying to cross the border illegally.
In communist Albania, crossing the border was considered a betrayal of the homeland and punishable by many years in prison. Very often, those who attempted to escape ended up dead.
Despite this, Zogaj and Shiroka, respectively 10 and 6 kilometers from Shkodra, were within walking distance of the bike users and consequently many Shkodra people went there for a day's beach or lunch.
A small mole on the lake also serves as a promenade and a springboard.
If you would like to have a beautiful carpet at home, women in Shkodra will always say, "Surely this carpet must be worked in Zogaj, after collecting sheep's wool, the women sit on the shore of the lake to do the washing just as they did a century ago. Then comes the coloring sequence dominated by red and black, indicating a difficult break from the early tradition. The carpets, bags, alleys and colorful bags are then made into looms.
What makes the village of Zogaj unique is not only the carpets, but also the way they have organized their living there, putting in place an unwritten internal regulation everywhere. Men work all together and the benefits are evenly shared. They all get up without daylight, they make their way to the lake to unwind. And when the boats return to shore in the afternoon, all the catch fish are collected and divided into equal parts among families, even given to those families that have no male at home. Old age sets the rules of the interior. Thus, although many families have left the village, most of them have not sold the houses that remain vacant, as the hunters want the village to be left alone, not mixing with other arrivals. These houses are used during the summer for tourism.
Zogaj
The village of Zogaj, a fishing village at the foot of the Taraboshi Mountain border with Montenegro, has been an elite tourist center since the Nineteenth Century. The area was especially attractive for the serene and beautiful nature with many birds.
The shores of Lake Shkodra at this point become rocky and craggy, the water is deep and clear, which makes Zogaj a suitable place for a beach. The surrounding countryside is full of soft geese, fish of various species and wild birds, products that have long been made gastronomic symbols of the area.
In the 1930s King Ahmet Zogu built a huge residential villa for himself and his family while during Communism, the village was a forbidden area where people were closely monitored when they visited. The villa turned into a holiday camp and some kiosks were added but overall, the village disappeared from the map of Albania's tourist sites. On the only bridge of Buna under Communism, a police checkpoint threatened passers-by to check the identity of passers-by on suspicion of finding anyone trying to cross the border illegally.
In communist Albania, crossing the border was considered a betrayal of the homeland and punishable by many years in prison. Very often, those who attempted to escape ended up dead.
Despite this, Zogaj and Shiroka, respectively 10 and 6 kilometers from Shkodra, were within walking distance of the bike users and consequently many Shkodra people went there for a day's beach or lunch.
A small mole on the lake also serves as a promenade and a springboard.
If you would like to have a beautiful carpet at home, women in Shkodra will always say, "Surely this carpet must be worked in Zogaj, after collecting sheep's wool, the women sit on the shore of the lake to do the washing just as they did a century ago. Then comes the coloring sequence dominated by red and black, indicating a difficult break from the early tradition. The carpets, bags, alleys and colorful bags are then made into looms.
What makes the village of Zogaj unique is not only the carpets, but also the way they have organized their living there, putting in place an unwritten internal regulation everywhere. Men work all together and the benefits are evenly shared. They all get up without daylight, they make their way to the lake to unwind. And when the boats return to shore in the afternoon, all the catch fish are collected and divided into equal parts among families, even given to those families that have no male at home. Old age sets the rules of the interior. Thus, although many families have left the village, most of them have not sold the houses that remain vacant, as the hunters want the village to be left alone, not mixing with other arrivals. These houses are used during the summer for tourism.
The charming village of Prekal is situated to the north of Shkodra on the banks of the Kiri River. It’s long been a secret swimming path for the local Shkodrans when their beaches are overflowing with tourists.
The Kir (Albanian: Kir or Kiri) is a river in northern Albania that first flows south-southwest and then southwest out of the North Albanian Alps and enters a distributary of the Drin just below Shkodër.
In the upper reaches the river cuts the "Canyon of the Kir" with dramatic cliffs. Just outside Shkodër, in Mes, the old stone Mes Bridge crosses the Kir.
The crystal clear water, baths, canyon, cleanliness, serenity and fresh air of the surrounding mountains is what Kiri Valley offers. Every weekend when the weather is warm, Shkodra citizens, foreign tourists and village dwellers around the river, frequent these beaches for sunbathing, bathing in fresh water, but also for water sports.
Apparently the river got its name from the village and not the village from the river name, because in earlier times this river was named Clusala. Above this river stands the Mesi Bridge built during Ottoman rule. Today, the canyons of this river in its rocky flow have become an attraction for nature tourists, river beaches, water sports that continue even in these warm September days. /j.p/
Kir
The charming village of Prekal is situated to the north of Shkodra on the banks of the Kiri River. It’s long been a secret swimming path for the local Shkodrans when their beaches are overflowing with tourists.
The Kir (Albanian: Kir or Kiri) is a river in northern Albania that first flows south-southwest and then southwest out of the North Albanian Alps and enters a distributary of the Drin just below Shkodër.
In the upper reaches the river cuts the "Canyon of the Kir" with dramatic cliffs. Just outside Shkodër, in Mes, the old stone Mes Bridge crosses the Kir.
The crystal clear water, baths, canyon, cleanliness, serenity and fresh air of the surrounding mountains is what Kiri Valley offers. Every weekend when the weather is warm, Shkodra citizens, foreign tourists and village dwellers around the river, frequent these beaches for sunbathing, bathing in fresh water, but also for water sports.
Apparently the river got its name from the village and not the village from the river name, because in earlier times this river was named Clusala. Above this river stands the Mesi Bridge built during Ottoman rule. Today, the canyons of this river in its rocky flow have become an attraction for nature tourists, river beaches, water sports that continue even in these warm September days. /j.p/
Albania is an amazing place, but it’s far from perfect. Over here at Kiri Adventures, we operate under the belief that travel is an exchange, not a commodity. When you do an activity with us, you’re giving back as much – if not more – than what you take away, often in ways you’d never expect.
Social Enterprise: a recipe for the future
Kiri Adventure is a social enterprise, which means the social value of what we do is just as important to us as the profit it earns.
As travelers, the planet is our product. Its social and environmental welfare is fundamentally important to us – not just as a business, but as human beings, too. When we say “We Love Changing People’s Lives,” we’re not just talking about our guests. We’re talking about everybody.
Imagine a different way of travelling.
Not a mass-produced, hermetically sealed series of airport and hotel transfers and excursions that make you feel you are ‘doing’ a country, rather than actually visiting it.
Imagine instead travel that is smaller scale, much more human.
You will see astonishing landscapes, take part in exhilarating experiences, learn about amazing cultures, and enjoy many magical moments. But you will be doing that with, rather than against the grain of the local people, their communities, and customs. You will in fact be the guest of the locals and that means your whole perspective will be different.
Kiri Adventures
Rruga G'juhadolAlbania is an amazing place, but it’s far from perfect. Over here at Kiri Adventures, we operate under the belief that travel is an exchange, not a commodity. When you do an activity with us, you’re giving back as much – if not more – than what you take away, often in ways you’d never expect.
Social Enterprise: a recipe for the future
Kiri Adventure is a social enterprise, which means the social value of what we do is just as important to us as the profit it earns.
As travelers, the planet is our product. Its social and environmental welfare is fundamentally important to us – not just as a business, but as human beings, too. When we say “We Love Changing People’s Lives,” we’re not just talking about our guests. We’re talking about everybody.
Imagine a different way of travelling.
Not a mass-produced, hermetically sealed series of airport and hotel transfers and excursions that make you feel you are ‘doing’ a country, rather than actually visiting it.
Imagine instead travel that is smaller scale, much more human.
You will see astonishing landscapes, take part in exhilarating experiences, learn about amazing cultures, and enjoy many magical moments. But you will be doing that with, rather than against the grain of the local people, their communities, and customs. You will in fact be the guest of the locals and that means your whole perspective will be different.
Valbonë Valley National Park is one of the most visited outdoor destinations in the Balkans. Surrounded by mountains, it looks like a wonderland, and it is a hiking paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The name “Valbona” refers to the Valbona River which flows through the valley bearing its name.
The name Valbona is used to refer to the turquoise colored Valbona River, which in turn flows through the valley bearing its name, and a small village in the valley, as well the general area informally. A wild, high, mountainous region inhabited by strong and fiercely independent people, the Malësi (Highland) has for the history of Albania been the region which was never really conquered or subdued by the various waves of invaders during the last 2,000 years of Balkan history. While the proper name of the mountains around Valbona specifically are the Gjakova Highlands (Malësi e Gjakovës), their name is most often translated in English as the Accursed Mountains, based on the name given to them by disgruntled Serbian would-be invaders.
Below you can find 5 impressive views of Valbona Valley National Park.
1. Impressive views from Maja e Popluks
Maja e Popluks (also called Maja e Poplukës, Papluka, Popljuces) is barely visible from either valley but appears when climbing Qafa e Pejes or Qafa e Valbones.
You start this hike from Fusha e Gjes in Valbona Valley, through Rrogam (a small village) then you will have a bar, called “Te Simoni” and there you have the last water source in the spring. After you leave the mini bar called “Te Simoni” you follow the trail until you see a small sign where you choose the right path to Popluka peak. The last part of the trail offers you magical views of the Valbona Valley.
2. 360 degrees views ascending Maja e Rosit
Maja e Rosit (Rosni Vrh) is the 15th highest peak of the Accursed Mountains (Prokletije). It is also called as “Maja e Roshit” and “Rosni Peak”. Located on the border between Albania and Montenegro it’s a perfect hiking peak. During the hike, you can see and enjoy the view of Valbona Valley, Maja e Thate peak, Maja Jezerca peak, Karanfilat range of peaks, Vajusha peak, etc. So, the view during the hike is 360 degrees and magic.
3. Maja e Boshit 2’416 m/alt, extraordinary views of three Valleys
Maja e Boshit is the only peak where you can enjoy the stunning views of three valleys in the Accursed Mountains. Theth Valley, Valbona Valley, and Valley of Curraj i Epërm. It is a difficult trail through a rocky trail. The starting point for this trail is in Valbona Valley National Park.
4. Valbona valley view from Valbona pass
albona to Theth (Valbona Theth) is one of the most beautiful and popular hikes in the Accursed Mountains (Prokletije). During this hike, you will enjoy the view of the Valbona Valley and then Theth Valley. If you plan to take this hike, you will meet a lot of outdoor enthusiasts from all around the world.
The highest peak of this trail is Qafa e Valbones (Valbona pass) and the altitude is around 1’795 m/alt, from where you can enjoy the beautiful Valbona Valley.
5. Maja e Kollatës, the stunning views of the Valbona Valley
Hiking to Kollata peak (Maja e Kollatës) is one of the most beautiful and challenging hikes in the Accursed Mountains (Prokletije).
After you reach the Maja e Kollatës peak, you can continue straight to a part called the Balcony. Surely the most beautiful part of the trail, where you can enjoy the stunning views of the Valbona Valley. I think there is the best view of this valley comparatively to all other peaks. The terrain is rocky and in some places slippery.
14 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Valbonë
Valbonë Valley National Park is one of the most visited outdoor destinations in the Balkans. Surrounded by mountains, it looks like a wonderland, and it is a hiking paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The name “Valbona” refers to the Valbona River which flows through the valley bearing its name.
The name Valbona is used to refer to the turquoise colored Valbona River, which in turn flows through the valley bearing its name, and a small village in the valley, as well the general area informally. A wild, high, mountainous region inhabited by strong and fiercely independent people, the Malësi (Highland) has for the history of Albania been the region which was never really conquered or subdued by the various waves of invaders during the last 2,000 years of Balkan history. While the proper name of the mountains around Valbona specifically are the Gjakova Highlands (Malësi e Gjakovës), their name is most often translated in English as the Accursed Mountains, based on the name given to them by disgruntled Serbian would-be invaders.
Below you can find 5 impressive views of Valbona Valley National Park.
1. Impressive views from Maja e Popluks
Maja e Popluks (also called Maja e Poplukës, Papluka, Popljuces) is barely visible from either valley but appears when climbing Qafa e Pejes or Qafa e Valbones.
You start this hike from Fusha e Gjes in Valbona Valley, through Rrogam (a small village) then you will have a bar, called “Te Simoni” and there you have the last water source in the spring. After you leave the mini bar called “Te Simoni” you follow the trail until you see a small sign where you choose the right path to Popluka peak. The last part of the trail offers you magical views of the Valbona Valley.
2. 360 degrees views ascending Maja e Rosit
Maja e Rosit (Rosni Vrh) is the 15th highest peak of the Accursed Mountains (Prokletije). It is also called as “Maja e Roshit” and “Rosni Peak”. Located on the border between Albania and Montenegro it’s a perfect hiking peak. During the hike, you can see and enjoy the view of Valbona Valley, Maja e Thate peak, Maja Jezerca peak, Karanfilat range of peaks, Vajusha peak, etc. So, the view during the hike is 360 degrees and magic.
3. Maja e Boshit 2’416 m/alt, extraordinary views of three Valleys
Maja e Boshit is the only peak where you can enjoy the stunning views of three valleys in the Accursed Mountains. Theth Valley, Valbona Valley, and Valley of Curraj i Epërm. It is a difficult trail through a rocky trail. The starting point for this trail is in Valbona Valley National Park.
4. Valbona valley view from Valbona pass
albona to Theth (Valbona Theth) is one of the most beautiful and popular hikes in the Accursed Mountains (Prokletije). During this hike, you will enjoy the view of the Valbona Valley and then Theth Valley. If you plan to take this hike, you will meet a lot of outdoor enthusiasts from all around the world.
The highest peak of this trail is Qafa e Valbones (Valbona pass) and the altitude is around 1’795 m/alt, from where you can enjoy the beautiful Valbona Valley.
5. Maja e Kollatës, the stunning views of the Valbona Valley
Hiking to Kollata peak (Maja e Kollatës) is one of the most beautiful and challenging hikes in the Accursed Mountains (Prokletije).
After you reach the Maja e Kollatës peak, you can continue straight to a part called the Balcony. Surely the most beautiful part of the trail, where you can enjoy the stunning views of the Valbona Valley. I think there is the best view of this valley comparatively to all other peaks. The terrain is rocky and in some places slippery.
Built of plank, iron and glass facade, the "Enver balcony" is the first stop for visitors traveling through the Hot Lakes to Tamara, while beneath their feet winding zigzag roads and steep curves.
The country is named after the point where Communist dictator Enver Hoxha closed his visit to the Kelmendi border area in 1967. It was not changed after the road was built and anyone passing by stopped to take pictures on the balcony surrounded by gorgeous scenery.
Tamara, the center of Kelmendi's administrative unit since 1935, has been the connecting point with the tourist villages of Lepusha and Vermosh in the Alps, but since reconstruction three years ago, it has become a separate tourist destination.
Stone-paved streets, alpine-lined buildings and a cobblestone promenade descending to the Cem River, combined with fresh and traditional food from the area, are attracting more and more local and foreign tourists.
“We are not used to seeing Tamara like that. Not only do the eyes relax, but there is more movement, especially in the summer and on weekends, ”.
Road infrastructure has narrowed the distance from Shkodra to Tamara, and then continues to Lepushë, Vermosh or Plava and Guci in the territory of Montenegro.
Historians have found written records of a long, narrow bridge which has been built in the area to allow merchants to travel from Gusinje and Plav towards Peja, Prizreni and Shkup. It is said that in the 18th century the Pasha of Shkodra, Kara Mahmud Pasha, was convinced by his wife Tamara to build a new bridge after the old was flooded. As a result, she got stuck in the present day Gusinje and Plav, where she had been visiting her family. Being greatly impressed by the region and the people, she told the Pasha to erect a new bridge. The inhabitants rewarded Tamarë by giving the bridge and the village her name.
6 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Tamarë
Built of plank, iron and glass facade, the "Enver balcony" is the first stop for visitors traveling through the Hot Lakes to Tamara, while beneath their feet winding zigzag roads and steep curves.
The country is named after the point where Communist dictator Enver Hoxha closed his visit to the Kelmendi border area in 1967. It was not changed after the road was built and anyone passing by stopped to take pictures on the balcony surrounded by gorgeous scenery.
Tamara, the center of Kelmendi's administrative unit since 1935, has been the connecting point with the tourist villages of Lepusha and Vermosh in the Alps, but since reconstruction three years ago, it has become a separate tourist destination.
Stone-paved streets, alpine-lined buildings and a cobblestone promenade descending to the Cem River, combined with fresh and traditional food from the area, are attracting more and more local and foreign tourists.
“We are not used to seeing Tamara like that. Not only do the eyes relax, but there is more movement, especially in the summer and on weekends, ”.
Road infrastructure has narrowed the distance from Shkodra to Tamara, and then continues to Lepushë, Vermosh or Plava and Guci in the territory of Montenegro.
Historians have found written records of a long, narrow bridge which has been built in the area to allow merchants to travel from Gusinje and Plav towards Peja, Prizreni and Shkup. It is said that in the 18th century the Pasha of Shkodra, Kara Mahmud Pasha, was convinced by his wife Tamara to build a new bridge after the old was flooded. As a result, she got stuck in the present day Gusinje and Plav, where she had been visiting her family. Being greatly impressed by the region and the people, she told the Pasha to erect a new bridge. The inhabitants rewarded Tamarë by giving the bridge and the village her name.
Koman Lake boat tour is among the top-three things to do in Albania. Numerous travelers rank it among the best boat rides in Europe, but there is something else even more impressing in Koman, Shala River. Shala originates in the Radohina peak in the Albanian Alps, Thethi area, and it’s a tributary river to the Black Drin. It flows for 37 km through Shala valley. The River is famous for its crystal clear water, azure color, and delicious river trout. It is a tourist destination visited by the local people as well as by international tourists. Most of them describe Shala River as the gem of Koman.
The Shala River is the river that rises at the foot of the Albanian Alps. It has a length of 37 km from the source at Radohina peak to Drin. It is distinguished by its special deep blue water and the rugged cliffs seem to touch the sky. In the Shala River you will find many beauties that are difficult to describe in words. Is is a trip that you will not easily forget and you would certainly not want to leave this place, which, besides natural beauties, has many legendary stories of fairies.
Reaching this river is possible by boat only. During the summertime, a lot of small boats go there from Koman and Fierza. Koman is about 55 km from Shkoder, and you need around 1 hour and 30 min driving. The road in some parts is unpaved. It takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes to arrive from Koman to Shala River.
Fierza is about 20 km from Bajram Curri and it takes around 30 minutes to arrive in Fierza. In Fierza there are fewer boats that go to Shala River. It takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes to go from Fierza to Lumi i Shales.
Shalë
Koman Lake boat tour is among the top-three things to do in Albania. Numerous travelers rank it among the best boat rides in Europe, but there is something else even more impressing in Koman, Shala River. Shala originates in the Radohina peak in the Albanian Alps, Thethi area, and it’s a tributary river to the Black Drin. It flows for 37 km through Shala valley. The River is famous for its crystal clear water, azure color, and delicious river trout. It is a tourist destination visited by the local people as well as by international tourists. Most of them describe Shala River as the gem of Koman.
The Shala River is the river that rises at the foot of the Albanian Alps. It has a length of 37 km from the source at Radohina peak to Drin. It is distinguished by its special deep blue water and the rugged cliffs seem to touch the sky. In the Shala River you will find many beauties that are difficult to describe in words. Is is a trip that you will not easily forget and you would certainly not want to leave this place, which, besides natural beauties, has many legendary stories of fairies.
Reaching this river is possible by boat only. During the summertime, a lot of small boats go there from Koman and Fierza. Koman is about 55 km from Shkoder, and you need around 1 hour and 30 min driving. The road in some parts is unpaved. It takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes to arrive from Koman to Shala River.
Fierza is about 20 km from Bajram Curri and it takes around 30 minutes to arrive in Fierza. In Fierza there are fewer boats that go to Shala River. It takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes to go from Fierza to Lumi i Shales.
Velipoja Beach and its Curative Sand
Velipoja (Velipoje) is a commune located in the Shkoder county in the northwestern part of Albania, famous for its beaches and for the quality of its curative sand.
This small municipality which covers the area of 72.4 square km borders in the northwest with Montenegro along the river Buna, in the east with Lezha county, and in the south with the Adriatic Sea.
The favorable location where the sea and river intertwine, the lush greenery fields, swamps and forests, hills, and mountains give this commune the big possibility for the development of the tourism in the sea and mountain and fishing. It includes the Velipoja beach which is 14 km long, the Velipoja reservoir, the Island of Franc Joseph (in Albanian: ‘Franc Jozef’) and the beach of Baks-Rrjoll.
The name ‘Velipoja’ comes from old Slavic ‘Velikopoje’ which means ‘Big field’ in Albanian, is 25 km far from the city of Shkodra and 119 km far from the capital city, Tirana where the International Airport “Mother Theresa” is located.
11 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Velipojë
Velipoja Beach and its Curative Sand
Velipoja (Velipoje) is a commune located in the Shkoder county in the northwestern part of Albania, famous for its beaches and for the quality of its curative sand.
This small municipality which covers the area of 72.4 square km borders in the northwest with Montenegro along the river Buna, in the east with Lezha county, and in the south with the Adriatic Sea.
The favorable location where the sea and river intertwine, the lush greenery fields, swamps and forests, hills, and mountains give this commune the big possibility for the development of the tourism in the sea and mountain and fishing. It includes the Velipoja beach which is 14 km long, the Velipoja reservoir, the Island of Franc Joseph (in Albanian: ‘Franc Jozef’) and the beach of Baks-Rrjoll.
The name ‘Velipoja’ comes from old Slavic ‘Velikopoje’ which means ‘Big field’ in Albanian, is 25 km far from the city of Shkodra and 119 km far from the capital city, Tirana where the International Airport “Mother Theresa” is located.
The village of Reç or otherwise called “chestnut land” is located in Shkrel commune of Malesia e Madhe, about 102 km from Tirana. You come across this path to get lost in another reality amid the shadow created by chestnut crowns, which are 250 to 500 years old. You can at any time enjoy a picnic in the green in the spring, summer, or fall seasons between golden and reddish leaves. You can take a stroll through the woods or visit the Cave of Swallows . Stalactics and stalactites have created wonderful forms in this cave. Once there, the inhabitants were hiding during the war, and today they are filled by swallows and tourists
Reç
The village of Reç or otherwise called “chestnut land” is located in Shkrel commune of Malesia e Madhe, about 102 km from Tirana. You come across this path to get lost in another reality amid the shadow created by chestnut crowns, which are 250 to 500 years old. You can at any time enjoy a picnic in the green in the spring, summer, or fall seasons between golden and reddish leaves. You can take a stroll through the woods or visit the Cave of Swallows . Stalactics and stalactites have created wonderful forms in this cave. Once there, the inhabitants were hiding during the war, and today they are filled by swallows and tourists
Shopping
LC WAIKIKI
Rruga 28 NëntoriDeFacto
Rruga 13 DhjetoriQendra Tregtare Online
Rruga wilsonTransport
Speed Taxi Shkoder
Stacioni i Trenit station
66 Rruga Revolucioni Antikomunist HungarezBus Station to Tirana
Bus Station to Ulcin
Komani Lake Ferry