Gjirokastra's UNESCO World Heritage Site Designation: Gjirokastra was added to the World Heritage Site list in 2005. Because of its well-preserved status as representative of an almost-extinct way of life, Gjirokastra has been designated a "museum city." The type of architecture found there (the Turkish-style dwelling, called a kule) is particular to that area - three floors are topped with a slate roof, and the prevalence of these types of houses has nicknamed Gjirokastra "Stone City."
Gjirokastra's Citadel or 'Silver Fortress': The 13th century citadel overlooks the Drinos River valley. Around the time the citadel was built, the town began to grow up around it. The Gjirokastra Citadel contains a military museum that visitors can tour.
Other Sites in Gjirokastra: Besides the kule and the citadel, visitors can see 18th century mosques and churches and 17th century Turkish baths. In addition, every four years, the National Albanian Folklore Festival is held in Gjirokastra (the last one was held in 2004). This rare event, treasured by locals, is sure to be enjoyed by tourists to Albania.
Gjirokastra History: Gjirokastra's history dates from the 1st century BC, most sources say. The 17th century bazaar made this Albanian town prosper (the bazaar has been rebuilt since this time). In the late 18o0's Gjirokastra was the site of an important Assembly that was integral to the Albanian liberation movement.
