EU4Culture completes the restoration of the Bashtova Castle in Albania

The works for the conservation and restoration of the Bashtova Castle, one of the most important historical monuments in Albania, have been completed.

This project was implemented under the EU4Culture program, funded by the European Union and carried out by UNOPS, in close partnership with the Ministry of Economy, Culture, and Innovation.

Originally built in the 15th century by the Venetians to control the coastline and grain trade, Bashtova Castle has been preserved and restored through extensive interventions aimed at protecting the structure, highlighting historical elements, and preparing it for sustainable use in the future.

The works included the restoration of the castle walls and towers, improvement of access and security elements, detailed archaeological research, development of an interactive multimedia interpretation system, and the construction of a visitor center.

Bashtova Castle, a cultural monument built in the 15th century, with its historical values and natural beauty, is now ready to be visited by tourists.

Located near the village of Vila-Bashtovë at a distance of 3-4 km, north of the confluence of the Shkumbin River, from the castle walls you can observe the coastline as if it were in the palm of your hand, from the Bay of Durrës to Divjakë and Karavasta.

For the first time, the castle appears on a maritime map from the year 1521.

The fortress was built in the 15th century and served the Venetians for trade exchanges. The Bashtova area has been mentioned as a river port on the Shkumbin as well as a center for grain exports. The castle has a rectangular shape measuring 60×90 meters. Its western part was rebuilt in the 18th century. Its walls have a height of 9 meters.

It is believed that this castle was two stories, with one of its floors submerged below the surface of the ground.

What makes Bashtova special compared to other castles that can be visited in Albania is the fact that it is the only castle built in a plain and not on top of hills or mountains. (July 21)