Where is Kruja Castle Located?

Kruja Castle is situated on a hill in the village of Kruja, Albania, about 20 miles north of Tirana, the capital of the country. 

Once you get to the top, you will see stunning views of the city. The best time to visit would be during the spring months, when it’s not too hot but not too cold either, making it the perfect time to enjoy and explore the castle.

No matter when you decide to visit, you’ll have the chance to explore the castle grounds and go through many artisanal shops, restaurants, and cafes in the Old Bazaar of Kruja. There are also many important sites and museums to visit, but we’ll get into that later on.

The History Behind Kruja Castle

As we previously mentioned, Skanderbeg used Kruja Castle as his headquarters until the end of Ottoman rule. It’s among the most special castles in Albania, which Skanderbeg protected with his life, demonstrating immense perseverance and dignity. 

Under his command, the castle fought off numerous attacks, from the year 1444 onward. No matter how much the Ottomans tried, they couldn’t get through the well-protected walls of the castle.

After 10 years of resistance, the stronghold finally fell with the death of Skanderbeg and was taken over by an Ottoman ruler. Albanians highly identify with the story of this castle, passing it down from generation to generation. 

How to Get to Kruja Castle?

You can get to Kruja Castle in various ways, so let’s explore the options in more detail.

5+ Best Things To Do in Kruja

Aside from the castle, Kruja is home to many other significant monuments and locations, all of which are open to the public. 

Here is a list of a few activities you should consider when in the historic village of Kruja.

#1. Wander in the Kruja Bazaar 

Dive into Albanian culture by going through the Kruja Bazaar, one of the oldest in the country, dating back to the 1600s. The style of the bazaar is influenced by Ottoman culture because of the long Ottoman rule in Albania. You can find all sorts of artisanal products like souvenirs, tablecloths, dishes, and many more.

It’s essentially just a straight cobblestone road where shop owners have arranged their products on the side of the road, welcoming tourists from all over the world. It’s located on the main road that leads to the Castle of Kruja, so you can visit it on the way!

#2. Visit the National Park of Qafshtama 

This breathtaking park is located on the edge of the mountain chain to the east of Kruja. It got its name from the Qafë-Shtamë Pass, a mountainous passage close to the village of Selitё, and covers an area of over 2000 hectares. It offers stunning mountain scenery filled with colorful pine forests, mountain springs, and small lakes. 

The Albanian government established the park in 1996, and it has recently become a well-liked location for hiking. In the park, there is a famous water spring known for its crystal clear water, and it’s called ‘’Kroi I Nënës Mbretëreshë’’, which means ‘’The Spring of the Queen Mother’’.

#3. Visit the Ethnographic Museum of Kruja 

The Ethnographic Museum of Kruja is a testament to the interesting history and traditions of Albania throughout the centuries. Inside, there is a captivating atmosphere with a total of 15 rooms, each telling a story about life in the town of Kruja. 

The museum is essentially part of the castle, as it’s within its courtyard. There, you can find centuries-old ovens, bee hives, dog houses, and other traditional household items that are still surprisingly functional. This museum is important for promoting Albania’s heritage to local and international tourists. 

#4. The Skanderbeg Museum

Within the walls of the Castle of Kruja, you can find the Skanderbeg Museum, a place where you can learn all about Albania’s beloved hero. It provides a wonderful insight into the history of Albania during Ottoman rule, and it’s a must-visit if you’re a history lover.

The museum was officially opened in 1982, and since then, it has been one of the most visited places in the country. The building adds to the beauty of the skyline of the city, perfectly blending in with the surrounding nature.

#5. Visit Kruja Castle

Of course, we can’t leave out the most important monument of all. Built in the 5th century, the castle is a top destination for all those interested in Albania’s past, having such significance that it cannot be overstated. 

After his childhood in Turkey, Skanderbeg returned to Kruja, eternally bonding his name to this beautiful city. To this day, the castle, being a symbol of Albania’s resistance, still remains one of the most visited sites in the country.

The castle is a crucial part of Kruja tourism, with countless visitors coming to see it each year. The Kruja Castle is open 24 hours a day, but keep in mind that for the museum inside, that is not the case.

#6. Visit the Cave of Sarisalltik

The Holy Cave of Sarisalltik was discovered in the 13th century, and inside it is the first mosque built in Albania. There lies the legendary figure of Sarisalltik, the subject of many legends. 

The cave is a 20-minute drive away from Kruja, and there are numerous guided tours you can take to explore the cave, or you can just go by yourself. There is a tall entrance to the cave, and a staircase that takes you to the small mosque.

Visit Kruja Castle With Kalemi Travel

If you want a proper tour of the city, you should visit Kruja with Kalemi Travel. 

There are two tours available, so let’s explore them in a bit more detail.

#1. From Tirana: Kruja Day Tour

In this first Kruja travel guide, you’ll meet with your guide in Tirana and head to Kruja by bus. There you’ll explore the cobblestone streets, taking you to the Old Bazaar, where you can buy souvenirs to remind you of your trip to Kruja. 

Then you’ll get to Kruja Castle and admire the fantastic views of the city from above. Inside the castle, you can explore the Skanderbeg Museum, which contains objects from the time of Skanderbeg and Ottoman rule. 

#2. Full-Day Tour: Durres and Kruja, a Historical Getaway from Tirana

This is the extended option, letting you explore both Kruja and Durres on the same day. You’ll enjoy the castle and the ethnographic museum, the narrow cobblestone streets, and the bazaar. 

Then you’ll get to Durres, where you’ll visit the old Venetian Tower and the amphitheater, soaking up the rich history of these beautiful cities.



Why Visit Kruja Castle?

Although Kruja Castle is a very popular and significant monument, here are a few more reasons that should convince you to give it a visit:

• It’s one of the most important historical monuments in Albania and a symbol of its strength and resistance.
• It’s home to stunning artwork and architecture, like the unique Ottoman Clock Tower.
• Inside, there is a museum dedicated to the national hero Skanderbeg.
• The top floor of the castle offers breathtaking views of the surrounding nature and the sunsets.
• On your way to the castle, you can go through the Kruja Old Bazaar, a beautiful Ottoman-style market stretched along a cobblestone street, filled with beautiful souvenirs and many other things you can buy.



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