Kruja Castle was one of the most important defensive strongholds in Albania as it resisted scores of foreign invaders over the centuries. It stands as a proud reminder of Albanian perseverance and strength.
If you are a history buff, you would love this castle and it has so much going for it - small town feel, old style market with lots of souvenirs, cobble stone streets leading to the castle, beautiful location with the imposing Mount Kruje acting as the backdrop and a nice museum with lots of useful information.
India has no shortage of such heroic deeds and stories. Therefore, it was easy for me to connect to the history and sacrifices of people who lived their lives in an earlier era. It made me wonder what would it feel like if I could live a day in the past - time travel, someone please invent it already! Icing on the cake - there are so many cafes or restaurants with stunning views when it is time to relax and recharge.
Kruja Castle, erected in the 5th century, has witnessed a long turbulent history when it was the centre of Arberia (Albania’s ancient name). When the Ottoman Empire ruled over a large portion of Europe (including Constantinople and the Balkans), this castle remained undefeated for thirty-five years, thanks to Skanderbeg, the legendary Albanian hero who defended its walls until his death.
Following Skanderbeg’s revolt against the Ottomans in 1443, this castle weathered many attacks from the Ottoman army. His army of 3,000 men repelled 3 massive attacks when they were outnumbered and these victories ensured his name was written in golden letters in the Albanian history. Albanians identify with this castle’s story, finding there the perseverance of a small but mighty force. However, in 1478, ten years after Skanderbeg’s death, the castle fell to the Ottomans.
Among the ruins within the castle walls stands the Old Clock Tower, with the same bell that once rung to announce the death of Skanderbeg. This clock, crafted by artisans of the old Bazaar, once coordinated the city’s time: such as the opening and closing hours of the shops, as well as the times of prayer. The watch tower looks beautiful and gives a panoramic view of the region - in olden times, this was where sentries were posted to spot any dangers.
I loved this signboard - it reminded me that my journey had just started and in the next few months, I would be exploring a lot of these cities!
The 450-year-old Grand Bazaar is located on the road heading towards the castle. In its heyday, this bazaar had more than 150 merchants who supplied to the castle’s inhabitants. Now, the bazaar sells traditional handmade objects and souvenirs, keeping the legacy alive. I liked a few of them and was deliberating whether to buy or not. But I decided to stick to my rule of buying only fridge magnets and small souvenirs, as carrying any unnecessary weight when I would be on the road for the next few months won't be a good idea. Thankfully, practicality trumped temptation!
As I left the market and moved towards the bus stop, I cast one final look at the castle. I loved this beautiful little town and I would remember this special place as the highlight of my Albanian trip!
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