Tirana Castle Ruins

Tirana, Albania

Fortress of Justinian or simply known as Tirana Castle dates is a remnant from the Byzantine-era. The preserved ruins show that the castle was probably founded in antiquity, maybe in the Early Byzantinum (400-600 AD). The fortress is the place where the main east-west and north-south roads crossed, and formed the heart of Tirana. The current fortification has three known towers and it is undergoing a process of restoration, for touristic purposes. Inside the fortified walls of the former fortress, there are many buildings that can be visited, including restaurants, hotels, and cultural institutions.

About all that is left of the fortress above ground is a 6-metre high Ottoman-era wall, covered in vines. The recently uncovered wall foundations were incorporated into the pedestrianised Murat Toptani Street, while a mosaic commemorating the 100th Anniversary of Albania's Independence was unveiled near the Albanian Parliament.

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Founded: 400-600 AD
Category: Castles and fortifications in Albania

More Information

en.wikipedia.org

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3.9/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Legends l (3 months ago)
Very artist looking structure will 365 view of Tirana. It is a well crafted modern building. Nice place to visit with friends and families and also to observe the skies!
US MOON (4 months ago)
I LOVE THIS PLACE!! I thought it wouldn't be a big deal if I just looked at the pictures This place is definitely worth visiting. You can go up the stairs quickly, and you can get a 360-degree view of the city from a high place It's not just a pyramid structure. There are various "devices" everywhere. You can take very nice pictures on a nice day.
Nolan Tianco (5 months ago)
Recently renovated building which was reopened in mid-2023 which offers a 360 degree view of the Tirana skyline from 8 storeys high. Free to enter but is a bit of a hike up. There are six benches on the top level where locals and tourists congregate, including seniors and children. There is a round glass panel that looks into the inside of the structure. There are pastel colored cube shaped buildings at various levels of the structure.
Kelly Velasco (5 months ago)
Looks awesome during and after then sunset when lights are ON! The renovated pyramid provides a great view point of the center of Tirana after going up a long flight of stairs. Nice way of preserving what was a not too beautiful historical building.
Thomas V (6 months ago)
Not necessarily the prettiest building in the city; it is however a point of recognition. It used to be a former museum, now it's a bit of a climb up the stairs but rewarding you with a wonderful view of the city. Surrounded by very colorful cube buildings. Would recommend going up for the view (it's free), the area is nice and calm - some kids were playing and it seemed like a place for youth to chill and get together. Other than the view it's not too special but definitely worth a visit!
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