Soak in history along with views of Lake Shkodra and the city of Shkoder at Rozafa Castle. The castle dates back to antiquity, founded by the Illyrians, conquered by the Romans in 167 BC, and rebuilt by both the Venetians and the Turks. Legend has it that when the castle was being built, an old man advised three brothers to sacrifice someone so that the walls would stand. The brothers decided to sacrifice whichever of their wives brought them lunch the next day and agreed not to tell their wives of the plan. However, the two older brothers informed their wives that evening, while the youngest brother did not. Thus, when the youngest brother's wife, Rozafa, brought him lunch the next day, she was chosen for sacrifice. Keep an eye out for the sculpture of Rozafa near the castle museum's entrance. You can reach the castle via town bus, taxi, or bicycle, which numerous hotels offer for rent. Plan to see Rozafa Castle and other attractions that appeal to you using our Shkoder trip builder.
Create an itinerary including Rozafa Castle
© OpenMapTiles © OpenStreetMap contributors
Tours to Rozafa Castle
Rozafa Castle reviews
-
Proper castle with fantastic views towards Shkoder and over the river below. Easy to imagine it being well-defended. Some restoration gone on but reasonably sympathetic. There's a good cafe at the... more »
-
Nothing much to see of a castle itself , mostly ruins, but a beautiful thing to see the whole Shkoder and the surrounding landscape from it. Great location on a hill with a magnificent view spreading.... more »
-
This place will always have a special place in my heart as well ... this is where I lost my virginity. It was surreal. BUT. Whilst mounting the goat it hit is head against the wall and died :(.
-
It is a bit far away from the city center. Better to go with comfortable shoes if you mange to walk along the sidewalk. The castle is located on the top of the hill. From there you can see the river and the houses of the city. It is quite windy but nice to get refreshed after hiking up the hill.
Plan your trip to Shkoder
Get a personalized trip
A complete day by day itinerary
based on your preferencesCustomize it
Refine your trip. We'll find the
best routes and schedulesBook it
Choose from the best hotels
and activities. Up to 50% offManage it
Everything in one place.
Everyone on the same page.
Popular things to do in Shkoder
Side trips from Shkoder
Hidden gems in Shkoder
Nearby attractions in Shkoder
Museums in Shkoder
Trips to Rozafa Castle by other users
10 days in The Balkans
BY A USER FROM BULGARIA
Strumica
Ohrid
Shkoder
8 days in Europe
BY A USER FROM BULGARIA
Varna
Ohrid
Shkoder
15 days in Albania
BY A USER FROM UNITED KINGDOM
Tirana
Shkoder
Himare
14 days in Tirana
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
TID Tower
Lake Bovilla
Peace Bell
58 days in Albania
BY A USER FROM CZECH REPUBLIC
Tirana
Korce
Gjirokaster
31 days in The Balkans
BY A USER FROM SPAIN
Corfu Town
Butrint
Gjirokaster