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Foreign media echoes Albania's stone city

2025-05-19 08:42:00, Aktualitet CNA

Prime Minister Edi Rama has published on social networks an article by foreign media suggesting tourists visit Gjirokastra, the stone city of Albania.

"Good morning and with this article dedicated to Gjirokastra, which is no longer just an attraction on the list of Albanian tourist sites, but is the destination in focus of unique trips, a trip that gives you the feeling of walking on history, within the cobblestones and stone buildings where a vibrant life abounds among culture, artistic activities, crafts, extraordinary cuisine - baptized as the charming stone city - as the famous travel magazine "Islands" writes, I wish you a good week," Rama writes.

Here's how Gjirokastra is reflected in the Islands.com article

While many travelers come to Albania to experience the beauty of the Mediterranean, you can have a truly enchanting and beautiful stay in the city of Gjirokastra.

It is believed that people have lived in this place since 2000 BC. Walking through the city gives you the feeling of exploring time, as you spot fortress walls from the 6th century, Ottoman mosques from the 1400s, and a historic bazaar that dates back almost three centuries.

Albania is one of the most affordable destinations in Europe, and Gjirokastra is no exception.

Although it is not a major tourist destination, most tourists are there during the summer and temperatures can reach over 34 degrees Celsius. It is best to visit in the autumn for a more leisurely visit. It is worth braving the summer heat for the National Folklore Festival, full of music, dance and food. It is only held every five years, so you will have plenty of time to prepare.

High in the mountains, the rocky town of Gjirokastra is a unique place, full of Ottoman architecture, cobblestone streets, and an imposing castle that almost seems to have grown naturally from the Albanian cliffs.

Foreign media echoes Albania's stone city

The castle’s stone arches and mountain views are more than worth the trip into town, but once you’re inside, there are also two interesting historical museums. It will only cost you about $5 to visit the castle and about an additional $3 to see the museums. There, you can learn all about the history of the city and the castle’s time as a terrible prison for political prisoners. There are also some wonderful stone houses to visit.

Explore the 1800s Zakate House to see its detailed ceilings, painted walls, and impressive stained glass windows.

If you want to get out and stretch, try taking a walk across Ali Pasha Bridge, pictured above. Once part of the city's aqueduct system, this large stone bridge is now a trail that visitors can explore.

There are many new and delicious foods to try in Gjirokastra, but one appetizer you won’t want to miss is qifqiu. These rice balls have a minty flavor and are a specialty of the city. You should also try buttermilk, pies filled with meat and cheese, grilled meats, and herbal mountain tea./ CNA