On this tour of Shkodra, we’ll visit the Mesi Bridge, the medieval ruins of Drisht, and Rozafa Castle, discovering its Illyrian and Ottoman past. Ready for a journey through time?
Tour Details
We’ll pick you up at your hotel in Shkodra and, once everyone is ready, we’ll begin discovering one of the oldest cities in Albania. Founded by the Illyrians in the 4th century BC and later shaped by the Ottomans, it’s now a true melting pot of cultures with a fascinating past.
We’ll wander through narrow streets lined with cafés, shops, and squares until we reach the banks of the Kir River, where the Mesi Bridge stands. We’ll see this historic stone structure built during the Ottoman Empire with its 13 arches. Did you know it’s the best-preserved and longest Ottoman bridge in Albania?
After crossing the viaduct, we’ll arrive in Drisht, the remains of a medieval city dating back to the 10th century AD. Known as Drivastum by the Romans, it became a commercial and episcopal center under Byzantine and later Venetian rule. We’ll see how some defensive towers and church remains are still preserved, evoking their former splendor.
From there, we’ll head south towards Rozafa Castle, built on a hill overlooking the lake and the Bojana and Drin rivers. During the visit, we’ll learn about its history, which dates back to the 4th century BC, when the Illyrians built their first defensive structure on this strategic point in Shkodra.
Later on, the Romans and Venetians reinforced its walls, turning it into an important regional stronghold. We’ll admire its Venetian towers, Ottoman courtyards, warehouses, tanks, and vaults, all tied to a tragic legend. We’ll tell you all about it!
Finally, we’ll return to your hotel, where we’ll say goodbye after a total of 3 hours of touring.