Kruje Castle, once headquarters of Skanderbeg, Albania's national hero

Kruje, also Kruja in English, is a city in Albania just north of Tirana that is rich in history. Kruja has a long list of attractions to offer tourists from the ancient castle nestled in the craggy rocks, two museums, stunning views, a nearby national park, sacred temples, natural springs, the ancient city ruins of Albanopolis, and the old bazaar.

Understand

Kruje was the de facto capital of Skanderbeg. Due to its high position it was possible to communicate from there to other castles of the country by using light/fire signs.

Krujë is a small city approximately 31 km (20 miles) north of the capital city of Tirana. While the region has been populated since the 3rd century BC, it was also home to the eponymous Alban tribe as well as Gjergj Skanderbeg, the national hero of Albania.

Get in

By bus

Hourly buses or furgons connect Krujë with Tirana between 07:00–18:00. From Tirana's Northern Bus Terminal they take casually 45 min and cost about 200 lek. Bus times are available under Tirana#By bus.

Alternatively, you can also connect via Fushë Krujë, from where you have regular furgons to and from Krujë (06:00–18:00, 100 lek).

From Shkodër and Durrës take a bus or van to Fushë Krujë first—it runs directly from the motorway to Tirana.

By car

• 1 Free parking. If is semi-full, just be ruthless and park on any limiting concrete of the parking bays — Albanian style. (updated Dec 2024)

Get around

Kruje is small enough to get around on foot very easily. It is built on a mountainside, with the one-street bazaar the central attraction, and the renovated castle just above and to the south. You can start your journey by walking on the pedestrian street. From there you have the option to the Old Baazar and buy a souvenir or something traditional or you can go to the Ethnographic Museum. When you are there you can decide if you also want to see the remainings of the old castle. There are some cafes and small restaurants near the castle, which makes it really easy for anyone to take a break from walking for some time.

However, if you are more of a nature person you can go hiking in the mountains. At the top of the mountain you can find a holy place where many locals go called Sarisalltik.

See

Kruje Ethnological Museum

• 1 Kruje Castle. at the top of a craggy mountain 680 meters (2,230 feet) above sea level. From the castle there is a broad view that spans from Mount Tomori in the south to Ulcinj in the north with views of the Adriatic coast throughout.The castle features an arched tunnel as its entrance and once inside you can find castle remnants, the watch tower, two museums, restaurants, and homes that are still occupied. The Dollma Bektashi Tekke shrine is also found within the Krujë castle walls. The shrine was a place for spiritual retreat and character reformation for the Tekke faith. In front of the shrine’s doors, on the sacred grounds, is a large olive tree planted on the day of Skanderbeg’s wedding. The watch tower is one of the few remaining towers found within. It stretches an additional 16 m (53 feet) above the castle walls and once provided a complete view of the horizon allowing the monitoring of enemy movements in three directions while staying protected to the east by Mount Krujë. The bell found inside the tower announced the death of Skanderbeg, the Albanian national hero, and can now be seen in the Skanderbeg Museum. (updated May 2018)

• 2 Kruja Ethnographic Museum (in the Castle). 09:00-16:00. This museum was the home of the Toptani family, built in a style known as Çadak, characteristic of the Krujë area at the time and dates back to the year 1764. The Toptanis were noble rulers of the area up until their move to Tirana. The house was declared a museum in 1959 and was restored by professor Emin Riza. The home allows you to experience daily life in this time period and is complete with interactive cultural displays and original furnishings. (updated May 2024)
• 3 Skanderbeg Museum (in the Kruja Castle, go through the bazaar). This juseum was opened November 1, 1982 and is centered on an epic man of the 15th century who held off the invasion of the Ottoman Empire for 25 years. The museum recognizes the lasting strength and subsequent loss of the army of Skanderbeg. The national museum engenders the character of a memorial and opens to a stunning sculptural fresco representing our hero Skanderbeg amongst his cohorts. The museum holds artifacts, writings, and accounts of Skanderbeg’s life and death, while additional displays continue to be added as discoveries are made. 500 lek. (updated May 2024)
• 4 Medieval Hamam (on the southwestern edge of the castle). The steam bath is another legacy of medieval life in Kruja. The hamam was built at the end of the 15th century, and consists of four areas: the changing room, the middle room which has remnants of a tank, and two separate bathing areas with water supplied by the well of the square. In the middle of the main room is the kettle where water was heated. This hamam was used by the city’s elite. In 1963, it was proclaimed a first degree cultural monument. (updated May 2018)

• The Tower Houses of Kruja. They are Krutan buildings qualified as tower-houses because besides living, they have served also for protection against any possible aggressor. Such houses can be found in the old neighborhoods of Kruja. (updated May 2018)
• 5 Faith Mosque (near the Skanderbeg Museum). It is thought to have similarity with the mosque in the Castle of Preza. It dates in the end of the 15th century. (updated May 2018)
• 6 Old Bazaar. The Old Bazaar of Kruja dates to the 17th century and is known by the locals as Derexhiku. It was built approximately 400 years ago and had about 200 shops starting from neat Kruja City Hall to the entrance gates of Kruja Castle. The first shops are thought to have started next to the castle entrance and over the years the shops expanded towards what is now the center of town. The shops line the street on both sides creating roads of roof-covered storefronts whose sloping roofs create an arcade along its length. The main crafts and trades in these shops have been leather working, silk, kitchen utensils, furniture, tailoring, pottery, carpentry, cafes, wood carving, butchers, barbers, shoemakers, blacksmiths, and wool workers. In the Old Bazaar today you can find objects and handmade items from traditional artisans as well as antiques collected from Kruja and the surrounding areas. (updated May 2018)
• 7 Murat Beu Mosque (Bazaar Mosque (Xhamia e Pazarit)) (in the Old Bazaar). The mosque was built in 1533 during the Ottoman invasion. It's unique architecturally, and matches in harmony with the Old Bazaar. It is also considered a cultural monument. During the Communist times, the mosque was closed and its minaret reopened once again in 1991, and is visited by locals and foreign tourists alike. (updated May 2024)
• 8 Cave of Sari Salltëku (at the top of Mount Krujë). The cave of Sari Salltëku is considered sacred within the Bektashi faith. (updated May 2018)
• 9 Skanderbeg Monument (in the center of town). a monument for the national hero, Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg. The statue was erected on November 28, 1959 and was designed by sculptor Pascal Odysseus. It was declared to be a national cultural monument in 1963. The statue depicts Skanderbeg charging into war atop his stallion with sword drawn. (updated May 2018)
• 10 Church's Ruins (Church of Skanderbeg), Near Museum of Skanderbeg. This 15th-century church, also known as the Skanderbeg Church, rises above the ruin of an earlier church which preserves a fragment of its original fresco. It was brought to light by the excavations carried out in the late XX-th century. After the resoration it was meant to be converted into a small exhibition displaying findings of the site (updated May 2024)
• 11 Albanopolis (in the village of Zgerdhesh, 5 km away from Fushe-Kruja). An Illyrian city and the capital city of the Albans, an Illyrian tribe which used to live in the zone. It is thought to be the city from which Albania and the Albanians inherited this name. (updated May 2018)
• 12 Three churches within the fortress of Skanderbeg, Kruja museum (Kruja). 09:00-18:00. "The statue of Skanderbeg, our national hero, is in the center of Tirana.". €6. (updated May 2024)

Do

• Enjoy the panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea from the castle.
• Leave your impressions at the Skanderbeg Museum Guestbook
• Go for a walk along the pedestrian street and take a peak at the many restaurants and souvenir shops alongside
• Visit the Sarisalltik Bektashi Temple at the top of Skanderbeg Mountain
• Take a deep breath of fresh air in the Shtam Pass (Qafe Shtame) National Park, where Queen Geraldine is said to have taken water from the source with the same name

• Places to visit (Architectural places), Kruja casttle, Museum etc (get a bus or follow the road to the Castle.). Kruja Castle is a major symbol of Albanian history and an important place to understand the heritage of this country.A visit to this castle will offer marvelous views of the city and its surroundings.
  GJergj Kastriot Skanderbeg Museum is dedicated to one of the most important figures in Albanian in history,Skanderbeg.It features various exhibitions including historical artrifacts and important information about his life and work.
  Stroll in the Old Town Center;The Old center of Kruja is filled with cobblestone streets,small shops,and traditional architecture.Its a beautiful place to enjoy the atmosphere of traditional Albanian town life.
  Qafe Shtama National Park: Near Kruja is the Qafe Shtama National Park,a beautiful place for picnics and nature walks. (updated May 2024)
• 1 The view of the clouds like a protective blanket over the peaks of the high mountain. (Cloud) (hight mountains). daily. The fantastic sight of white or black clouds over the mountain peaks, appearing like a protective cover above them, gives a distinct feeling separating these areas from other regions with the mountains of Kruja. no price. (updated May 2024)
• Shop for souvenires, handicrafts and carpets in the historic 17th-century Old Bazaar.
• Hike in the National Park of Krujë with its waterfalls and springs.

Nature

• 

  Qafë-Shtamë National Park – This national park, established in 1996, is 25 km (15.5 miles) northeast of Kruja. The bottled drinking water of the same name is found here and is famous because it used to be delivered daily to the royal family in Tirana due to its curative properties. Its location is 1,100 m above sea level nestled in the mountains. The park is comprised largely of black pine forest and is famous for its curative water, special atmosphere, fresh air, natural beauty and the unique landscape that it offers. Here at the park you will be able to enjoy popular outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, picnics, yoga, etc. Accessing the park is easiest by car.
• Hurdha e Kecit (The pond of the nanny-goat) –Hurdha e Kecit is a mountain pass located near the village of Kec in the Kruja region of Albania This pass has historical significance against the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century. This toponym is present in the territory of Kruja where there are springs and waterfalls. The Pond of Nanny-goat is located in the village of Noje, 6 km in the east of Kruja, in one of the ramification of the Dro River. It is a waterfall with a length of 15-20 m and with a scenic view. The legend of this waterfall states that: Here has lived the beauty of the water (an Albanian myth) which went out every morning in the coast by drying and combing her hair under the sun and would dive again in the afternoon. The residents of this region have used this waterfall as a pilgrimage place because they believed in the curative powers of the waterfall.
• Lake Bovilla – Lake Bovilla is a reservoir located in the central part of Albania , near the capital city of Tirana. The Lake Bovilla is situated about 15 km northeast of Tirana, in the Bovilla area of the Tirana County. The lake serves as a reservoir for drniking water suppy to Tirana and the surrounding areas. It is important source of freshwater for the region. Lake Bovilla is easily accessible from Tirana by car, with a drive of about 30 minutes.
• It lies in between two mountain ranges with opportunities for walking, hiking, mountain biking, and climbing on the rocks. From any view of the lakeside mountains you can enjoy the beautiful view of the landscape.
• Cave of Bovilla – In the southern part of the Gami Mountain, in the gorge of Bovilla, which divides Kruja from the Tirana district. This cave is not exposed for visitors. Based on researchers this cave is the continuation of the Cave of Pellumbasit of the Dajti Mountain. It is thought to have been inhabited around the 12th and 11th century BCE. A distinction of this settlement is the presence of prehistorical pictures which show scenes from that time.
• Abdyl Agës Bridge – This bridge is between Mount Krujë and Mount Kurçajt in the southernmost part of Krujë and spans the Black River. It is believed to have been built in the early 1800s and is constructed entirely of limestone. The bridge is part of a medieval road that once led through this region and provided a safe crossing for the caravans that passed through.
• Kurçajt Bridge – To the south of the Krujë region in the village of Kurçaj. It stretches over the Black River and served as an integral part of an old caravan trail connecting Krujë with Tirana. It was constructed in the late 1700s and is made from staggered stones raised gradually by concrete portions. The bridge was made with a unique asymmetric shape that reaches up to the opposite side like a staircase.
• Weeping Gorge – 2 km (1.2 miles) from the north of Krujë, along the road that leads to Qafë-Shtama national park is a memorial for martyrs of the Ottoman invasion. The memorial hangs at the edge of a massive gorge overlooking an expansive valley. Historical evidence shows that below these stones are the remains of 90 girls that chose to be thrown into the abyss rather than succumb to the Ottomans on June 16th, 1478.
• Black River Canyon – Between Kruja Mountain and Gamnit Mountain, this canyon offers a walking and hiking trail with views of waterfalls, rivers, and old ottoman bridges. Within the canyon are the Abdyl Agës Bridge, Black Gorge, Bridge of Kurcajt, and Medieval Steps. This area is thought to have been an important passageway around the 15th century and traces are readily seen in the area today.
• Old City of Zgerdhesh - Archaeologists have said that they might have discovered traces of the Ilyrian city of Albanopolis. Several brick tombs have been discovered.

Hike

• Path of Skanderbeg – The hike, which can be done by any age, goes 1265 m to the highest peak (the Lake Peak is 1725 m. Along the trail, there are numerous streams flowing from the highest peak of this mountain with icy and crystalline water. The hike takes about 2½ hours and has a 3.71-km climbing distance. At Skenderbeg Mountain, there are views of the long coastline of the Adriatic, and the visibility goes to Burrel in Mali i Dejës.
• Hiking to Shrine of Sari-Saltik – It is accessible by road, but also by a wonderful hiking trail.Hiking the entire path from the city center to the temple will take approximately an hour or an hour and a half depending on speed. Once at the top you can enjoy the historical temple as well as a few cafes and restaurants within walking distance, some of which offer breathtaking views.
• Droja River Canyon Hike – This trail is approximately 1.5 km long and takes around 25 minutes to reach the end. At the end of the primary and secondary trails are beautiful water features including some waterfalls. The beginning of the trail can be accessed by car.

Buy

Kruja baazar

Carpets, hand-made felt items such as slippers, antiques including traditional costumes of all sorts, and lots of more or less kitsch "Albania" red paraphernalia with the eagle on it.

• Kruja's Bazaar (Pazari i Derexhikut), It lies on both sides of the cobbled road that leads to the castle (follow the road from the promenade to the road that leads to the castle). Souvenir shops usually open at 07:00 and close at 23:00. The Bazaar of Kruje, located in the center of the ancient city, shines like a warm water of colors, sounds and wonderful aromas. Everything starts with the colored umbrellas that lie on the cobblestone streets of the city, creating a scene similar to an uninvited art that gives life and breath to the city. Every shop sells the same stuff and Albanians barely go here for shopping. Prices can be from 100 lek [for simple souvenirs] and more [for souvenirs, handmade carpets, etc.]. (updated May 2024)

Eat

What

Some tradional dishes in Kruja:

• Tavë me fasule – A traditional food with the main ingredient "legume"
• Fërgesë me qumësht – Traditional food with curd and milk.
• Kabuni - A traditional dish, made with rise, cinnamon and ram's neck meat.
• Sultjash - A dessert (rice pudding) not to be missed, cooked with love by the grandmothers of Kruja.

Where

Most restaurants here are now tourist oriented and priced. If you are looling for an authentic place, better try in Fushë-Krujë.

• 1 Restaurant Kalaja. Sit on the second floor and enjoy a beautiful panoramic setting while tasting a wide range of Albanian wines. (updated May 2024)
• 2 Bar Restaurant Panorama. Near the castle, it features typical local dishes such as Pule me Qull (village chicken), and Kabuni. Taste local Raki made from cornelian cherry and blackberries. (updated May 2024)
• 3 Restaurant Bardhi, AL Rruga Kala AL. Near the National History Museum G.K. Skanderbeg, it offers traditional Albanian dishes for lunch and dinner along with spectacular views. Outdoor and indoor seating is available. (updated May 2024)
• 4 Restaurant Alba, Castle of Kruja Krujë District Kruje Bar Restorant ALBA. Across from the GK Skanderbeu National History Museum. Traditional local and Italian dishes are served in an ambient setting with indoor and outdoor options available. (updated May 2024)
• 5 Merlika Restaurant, Bar Restorant Merlika. In the castle, Merlika offers a local menu and pizza in traditional-styled dining. (updated May 2024)
• 6 Eli Restaurant, GQ5V+8JH, Rruga Kala. In the Old Bazaar, it offers a wide menu of traditional Albanian foods. (updated May 2024)
• 7 Restaurant Horizont, Rruga e Malit. A place with the best view, where you can watch the sunset while eating delicious dishes, this place is 1,5 km from the center of Kruja. (updated May 2024)
• 8 Kroi Restorant (Traditional cooked food). 09:00-22:00. The Kroi restaurant in Kruje is at the entrance to its castle, and serves traditional local food, overlooking the eastern part of the city, an attractive and accommodating environment. (updated May 2024)

Drink

• 1 Bar Kafe Visi. An authentic local bar with great view and outdoor seating. Coffee 70 lek. (updated Dec 2024)

Sleep

• 1 Hotel Panorama, Rruga Kala (near the Old Bazaar), ☏ +355 69 203 4533. Rooms have a view over the city and restaurants are on the property. 5,504 lek. 
• 2 Mervin Hotel, SH38, ☏ +355 511 24869. The units at the hotel come with a seating area, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels and a private bathroom with bathrobes and a bidet. The rooms feature a wardrobe. The property offers a paid airport shuttle service. 4,846 lek. (updated May 2022)
• 3 Shkreli Resort Qafeshtame, Qafë Shtamë Street, Cudhi, ☏ +355 68 208 2006. Guest at Shkreli Resort will be able to join various sport, adventure or relaxing activities for any group age by requests. 7,647 lek. (updated May 2022)
• 4 Rooms Emiliano Castle of Kruja, Castle St, ☏ +355 67 252 0929. Right on top of the castle. Private parking available. Air-conditioned rooms offering a desk, a kettle, a fridge, a safety deposit box, a flat-screen TV, a patio and a private bathroom with a bidet. 2,991 lek. (updated May 2022)
• 5 Kaloshi Villa, Kala Street, Inside the Kruja Castle, ☏ +355 69 707 8923. Some accommodation includes a balcony with garden views, a fully equipped kitchenette and a private bathroom with bidet. (updated May 2022)
• 6 Kalaja Inn Guesthouse, GQ5W+5H, ☏ +355 683871102. Enjoy your stay in a warm house like Inn Guesthouse. (updated May 2024)
• 7 Kruja Albergo Diffuso. Set in Krujë, 32 km from Former Residence of Enver Hoxha, Kruja Albergo Diffuso, Inside Kruja Castle offers air-conditioned accommodation and a garden. (updated May 2024)
• 8 Hotel Kroi. Hotel Kroi near castle entrance castle and town view is located in Krujë, 32 km from Former Residence of Enver Hoxha and 49 km from Rock of Kavaje. (updated May 2024)

Go next

• Fushë-Kruja
• Laç – A town in central Albania, situated near the Shkumbin River and surrounded by picturesque hills. It's known for its agricultural activities, particularly in wheat and corn cultivation. The town has a relatively small population and a laid-back atmosphere. Lac is also home to historical sites such as the ruins of the ancient city of Byllis, which dates back to the 4th century BC and offers insights into Albania's rich history. Additionally, Lac serves as a gateway to exploring the natural beauty of the surrounding region, including nearby lakes and mountains, making it a pleasant stop for travelers interested in both history and nature.
• Thumanë – A small town located near Fushë-Kruja in Albania. This area is known for its natural beauty and rich history. The Balshaj Tower is one of the main historical attractions of the town. Thumanë offers a peaceful atmosphere and a beautiful blend of nature and local culture.
• Qafshtamë – A mountainous area located near the city of Kruja in Albania. This area offers magnificent natural views, with high hills and dense forests. In this area, you can also find some important historical sites, such as the Balshaj Tower, an ancient tower that was part of the defense of Kruja during the medieval period. Qafshtama is also a popular destination for travelers and hikers seeking adventure in nature and wishing to explore the beauty of the area.