KALAJA ILIRE – KELCYRE

The Këlcyrë Castle is a Category I Cultural Monument, covering an area of about 0.5 hectares, located on the slope of Mount Trebeshina. It originally served as a fortress during Late Antiquity and was continuously inhabited by the Illyrians. Its name dates back to the 9th century, derived from “Klysyre,” meaning “gorge.” Four main construction phases can be identified: 4th–3rd centuries BC, 3rd–5th centuries AD, 6th–17th centuries, Early 19th century.  The earliest phase belongs to the ancient fortification period, characterized by walls built with large stone blocks without mortar. Reconstructions after the 10th–11th centuries used mortar, with walls still preserved up to 4 meters in height. The castle features defensive towers, while the final phase includes a fortress at the highest point of the slope, reinforced with three towers.

Ali Pasha of Tepelena conquered Këlcyrë and rebuilt parts of the castle. Inside, there are corridors, underground galleries, and other structures. The castle suffered severe damage during World War II, particularly in 1944. From this site, there are stunning views of the Këlcyrë Gorge, the Vjosa Valley, and the Dëshnica region. Its restoration would greatly contribute to the development of tourism in Këlcyrë.