Kruja
The historic city of Kruja lies
on a panoramic mountain
slope 32 km away from Tirana,
600 m above sea level. The city
is one of the most beautiful
tourist spots due to its natu-
ral views and its history. Here
Gjergj Kastrioti (Skanderbeg)
protected Albania and Europe
from the Ottomans.
The most important attrac-
tion of the city is the Museum
of the National Hero “Gjergj
Kastriot Skënderbeu”, situ-
ated in an Illyrian castle, which
took its present facade dur-
ing the 5th-6th century. The
castle has nine towers, a few
houses, and the Teqja e Doll-
masë. The hammam is on
west of the castle. Inside the
castle grounds, you can also
visit the Ethnographic Mu-
seum, a typical house made
of çardak, which belonged to
the illustrious Toptani family.
The traditional market of Kruja
stands near the castle. It is one
of Albania’s largest handicrafts
market. This bazaar has oper-
ated since the 15th century.
On the top of the mountain
over the town of Kruja there
is a religious spot called Sari
Salltiku (Bektashi sect). The
visitors can find shelter and ac-
commodation if they wish to
climb to that spot. From here
there is a magnificent view to-
ward the valley and further to
the Adriatic Sea.
