Gjirokastër Castle

Gjirokastër Castle is a fortress in Gjirokastër, Albania (during Ottoman rule it was historically known as Ergiri while Greeks referred to it as Argyrokastro, a name applied also to the castle) which also includes a Bektashi tyrbe. Gjirokastër Castle is situated at a height of 336 metres (1,102 ft). 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. Gjirokastër Castle is one of the most important historical monuments in Albania and represents a significant example of military architecture in the Balkans. Over the centuries, it has served various functions, including the defense of the city and administrative uses. Today, the castle is a well-known tourist attraction and a venue for cultural events, contributing to the preservation and promotion of the region’s historical heritage.