Trip Planner:   Europe  /  Albania  /  Shkoder County  /  Shkoder  /  Rozafa Castle

Rozafa Castle, Shkoder

4.5

#1 of 18 in Things to do in Shkoder

Castle Tourist Spot Must See

• ©
• ©
• ©
• © +7
• ©
• ©
• ©
• ©
• ©
• ©
• ©

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.

more less

Create an itinerary including Rozafa Castle

Start planning

Unable to display map at this time. Please try again later.

© OpenMapTiles © OpenStreetMap contributors

Rozafa Castle Reviews

Rate this attraction

TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

795 reviews

Google

4.6

• By DrBoyfriend

  The castle is sure impressive, and a person could spend hours enjoying the surrounding - however I found that there needs to be more information offered to tourists regarding its history. It couldn't....  more »

• By Katherine S

  I went in evening. Our visit was completed with the most incredible sunset! There were no more than 20 people within in the entire walls while we were there (mid-October, evening). This might...  more »

See more on TripAdvisor »

Google

• By Sylvia Wu

  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.

  more less
• By Joshua Kaminski

  One of the most amazing places I've ever been. Wonderful for sunset as well. The wind can get cold so high up. Would love a proper tour, however still neat to learn the ancient history of the ruins! Great views!

  more less

See more on Google »

Places to stay near Rozafa Castle

Plan your trip to Shkoder

• Get a personalized plan

  A complete day-by-day itinerary
  based on your preferences

• Customize it

  Refine your plan. We'll find the
  best routes and schedules

• Book it

  Choose from the best hotels
  and activities. Up to 50% off

• Manage it

  Everything in one place.
  Everyone on the same page.