Paleokastra Castle

About Paleokastra Castle

Paleokastra literally means old castle and the building of the fortification dates back to the 4th century AD, when the Roman emperor Constantine (272 – 337 AD) ruled over the area. The castle is thought to be built as a military installation to house cavalry and had a rectangular shape. Although the walls have collapsed, the shape is still visible in the ruins. After being destroyed in the 4th century the castle was rebuilt during the byzantine era in the 5th century and two Paleochristian basilicas were added. Archaeological excavations found proof that the castle has been in use until the 6th century. In the 1970s the site has been officially declared a cultural monument.

How To Get To Paleokastra Castle

Paleokastra Castle is located just off the SH4, about 10 kilometers north of Gjirokastra and about 64 kilometers from Saranda. The archaeological site can best be reached by car, as it’s located pretty much in the middle of nowhere with no facilities or anything nearby. It’s best to visit on the way or it could be combined with a trip to other places, like The Blue Eye, Libohova Castle, Hadrianopolis or Gjirokastra. If you don’t have your own transportation, you can rent a car, or alternatively take any bus between going north from Gjirokastra and ask to be dropped off at the exit towards Paleokastra, from where it’s a 2 kilometer walk.