Rozafa Castle as a Witness Of Time
Rozafa Castle is historically significant for Albania and the Shkodër city area. Historians say that the fortress was built in the 3rd century. Her position is very interesting. The Drin and Buna rivers are located around the fortress. Those who built this durable and large fortress chose this place so that the approach to Rozafa would be difficult for the enemies.
Who were the first builders of the Rozafa Castle? Due to the long history of this fortress, it is not possible to say exactly who the builders were. Scholars believe that the builders of that place were Illyrians. They dominated this area until the arrival of the Roman Empire and the powerful Romans.
Much material evidence confirms that different civilizations from various historical periods conquered this fortress. Each civilization left its mark and rebuilt it according to its wishes.
Rozafa Castle As a Defense Against Attack
After the Illyrians, the Roman Empire took control of Rozafa Castle, integrating it into their military infrastructure. Subsequently, with the arrival of the Ottomans in the 15th century, Rozafa underwent further transformations to accommodate the changing needs of civilization.
They strengthened it and rebuilt the fortress to establish their authority over this region. Over the centuries, the fortress served as a strategic military point, a prison, but also as a symbol of power and control.
However, after the Ottoman Empire, the fortress suffered neglect and decay. Only in modern times, a new restoration took place. Rozafa Castle today serves as a tourist site that attracts visitors from all over the world.
Inside the fortress today you can find the material legacies of all the civilizations that were here. Also, this Balkan tour will give you a perfect view of the natural beauty of Albania.
The Legend of Rozafa’s Sacrifice
The victim of Rozaf’s mother
As we said at the beginning of the blog, this castle carries with it a very famous and interesting legend. The legend attracts many tourists to visit Rozafa Castle. The fortress represents the place of the mother’s sacrifice, and the story originates from the Illyrian tribes.
The story begins at the time of the creation of the Rozafa Castle when three brothers decided to build a city on top of the hill to have the best view of what is happening around them. The brothers successfully built the walls, but the walls crumbled and crumbled every night.
The brothers were powerless and did not know why this was happening and how to prevent it. They decided to consult a wise man, who gave them advice. The sage declared, “Bury alive in the walls of the fortress one of your women who brings you food first, and the fortress will be successfully built.”
Upon returning home, the two older brothers recounted the story to their wives in meticulous detail; however, the youngest brother remained silent. Consequently, when his wife brought the food, she discovered the impending situation. Her only condition was that she expose the right side of her body, ensuring she could always feed her little child and he could always see her.
Nature and Beauty of Shkodër City
Rozafa Fortress is not the only interesting attraction in Shkodër city. In addition, Shkodër is known for its natural beauty and rich history. One of the largest lakes in the Balkans is located directly on Shkodër. Lake Shkodër lies on the border of Albania and Montenegro. A large number of different species of birds can be found on this lake, which will delight all nature lovers.
With our Balkan Tour, we will visit Shkodër city and its beauties. Also, traveling with Balkland and during this Balkan Tour, you will learn many historical facts about this city. People have inhabited Shkodër since ancient times, and various civilizations have influenced it over the centuries. All those cultures left their mark on the architecture, culture, and way of life of the inhabitants of Shkodër.
Conclusion
Are you intrigued by this legend of Rozafa Castle? In that case, during the Balkan Tour, you will hear more interesting legends that have been passed down through the Balkans. Explore this fortress and become familiar with its impressive architectural structure, which captivates tourists with its imposing walls, towers, and panoramic views of the surroundings, including the Bojana River and Lake Shkodër.
Our Balkan Tour will also take you to Shkodër National Park in Montenegro to show you all its natural beauty. Don’t miss this great opportunity to feel the history of Shkodër and Castle Rozafa and join us on our Balkan Tour!
Hi, I’m Mike—co-founder of Balkland and your on-the-ground tour leader. I’m involved from the first message to the final farewell, making sure everything feels effortless and every day feels designed around you.