THE CITY ROCK

The city rock is a natural and cultural monument of the first category, located near the city center of Përmet. It constitutes one of the most important symbols of the city, combining natural, historical, cultural and archaeological values. The rock has a height ranging from 28 to 42 meters, a diameter of about 30 meters and an area of approximately 650 m².
At its peak, the ruins of the walls of a medieval fortress are preserved, as well as traces of a water tower, an unidentified building and a watchtower. According to researchers, the fortress is thought to have been built during the Early Middle Ages and to have served as a strategic defensive point, overlooking the Vjosë River valley.
The historical importance of the City Stone is also evidenced by the descriptions of foreign travelers. Edward Spencer, in his journey in 1850, mentions the ruins of a church built on top of the rock, near which was a well with very clean spring water. According to the tradition of the time, Saint Paul had preached in this church and had blessed the water, which was considered miraculous. For this reason, the place attracted many Christian pilgrims from different regions, who came to seek forgiveness of sins or healing from diseases. Spencer also mentions that a visit to this place required permission from the governor.
Guri i Qytetit is also associated with a well-known legend about the origin of the name of Përmet. According to popular tradition, during the Ottoman invasion of 1417, the local governor Premti, after heroically resisting, refused to fall alive into the hands of the invaders. Together with his daughter, Aleksandra, he threw himself from the cliff into the Vjosë River. Legend has it that the name of the city derives from the name of Premti, while this event has been passed down through generations as a symbol of endurance and sacrifice.
Today, Guri i Qytetit remains an important landmark for the history, culture and identity of Përmet. Its natural values, archaeological ruins, historical evidence and legends surrounding it make it a precious asset of Albanian cultural heritage and an important attraction for local and foreign visitors.