TIRANA, Aug 21 /ATA/ The castle of Elbasan during this tourist season is becoming one of the most visited monuments for local and foreign tourists.
During the visit to this cultural monument tourists discover the treasures of one of the oldest fortresses of Albania.
NWhile walking down the cobblestone alleys within the castle walls, visitors can feel the weight of time and look back on the city’s past.
The “Kala” neighbourhood is the landmark of the city of Elbasan and also one of the most important cultural heritage centres in the Balkans. More than five centuries ago, when Kruja was under siege by Ottomans, part of this army was working to expand the existing castle of “Skampin.”
The castle also housed Turkish army garrisons, shopping centres and other vital areas of the city.
After the expansion of the city and the settlement of inhabitants from different villages, neighbourhoods such as “Shën Koll” and “Alejdine” took shape outside the walls of the castle, enriching the diversity of this special place.
By decision of the Institute of Cultural Monuments, the neighbourhood “Kala” was designated museum quarter, an initiative that has resulted in subsequent restorations.
The characteristic Elbasani houses have been restored, as well as the cobblestone streets restored to their authentic form. Tourists today can enjoy walking down the alleys lined by characteristic houses and massive gates with typical hammers, all built to preserve the authentic architecture.
Within the walls of the castle lies the tomb of iKostandin Kristoforidhi, a key figure in the development of the Albanian language. Likewise, the area has been home to many prominent intellectuals and artists, such as Aleksandar Xhuvani and Dhimitër Shuteriqi, who have contributed to the enrichment of Albanian culture, as well as the “Saint Maria” church.
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