Skela Castle

Skela Castle is an exquisite site that boasts a deeply fascinating past. This castle is located in the city of Vlora, in the south of Albania. The property is situated atop a hill along the left-hand side of the coastal route leading from Vlora towards the south.

The fortress, located 3 km away from Vlora, can be conveniently reached by either public transportation or private vehicle. In 1531, Suleiman the Magnificent constructed the castle.

Until the early 1900s, Skela Castle was preserved in its entirety and kept in good condition. Additionally, significant archaeological findings, including Illyrian and Roman coins and vases, have been unearthed within the walls of this fortress. The remnants of it can presently be found submerged beneath a basement that's been inundated with water, beneath a towering structure located in the Skela district, and directly opposite the city's sports stadium. According to historical analysis, the fort was designed with eight sides and stood at a height of 15 meters. The length of each side was approximately 90 meters, while the distance between the two corners was 205 meters. Its perimeter was protected by a canal that was nine meters wide, and this canal also served as a conduit to link the fort with the neighboring sea.

Tourists exploring this fortress are welcome to hike through the remnants and admire the scenic surroundings abundant with lush flora.