Gjirokastër Fortress
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
For the castle in Greece, see Argyrokastro Castle.
Gjirokastër Castle (Albanian: Kalaja e Gjirokastrës or Kalaja e Argjirosë) is a fortress in Gjirokastër, Albania (during Ottoman rule it was historically known as Ergiri while local Greeks referred to it as Argyrokastro, a name applied also to the castle). Gjirokastër Castle is situated at a height of 336 metres (1,102 ft).[1]
Quick Facts Coordinates, Site information ...
Gjirokastër Fortress | |
---|---|
Kalaja e Gjirokastrës or Kalaja e Argjirosë | |
Gjirokastër, Southern Albania | |
Coordinates | 40.074°N 20.141°E / 40.074; 20.141 |
Site information | |
Owner | Albania |
Controlled by | Byzantine Empire Despotate of Epirus Zenevisi family Ottoman Empire Albania |
Open to the public | Yes |
Site history | |
Built | 12th Century CE |
Materials | Ancient blocks |
Close
The castle dominates the town and overlooks the strategically important route along the river valley. It is open to visitors and contains a military museum featuring captured artillery and memorabilia of the Communist resistance against German occupation, as well as a captured United States Air Force plane to commemorate the Communist regime's struggle against the Western powers.