If you ever find yourself on Albania’s southern coast, make time to climb the hill above Himara. That’s where we discovered one of the most surprising historical treasures of the Ionian — the Castle of Himara.
With views that stretch endlessly across the blue sea and stone alleys that whisper old legends, this place feels like stepping into another era. What amazed us most wasn’t just the walls or the ruins, but the stories layered between them — from ancient warriors to Byzantine monks, from forgotten battles to local faith.
A Castle That Echoes Centuries
The locals told us the castle dates back to before the Roman Empire — some say to the 8th century BC, when Illyrians ruled the region. Later came the Byzantines, who strengthened the fortress under Emperor Justinian. And then the Ottomans, who met resistance right here from Himara’s own fighters — including, as some believe, allies of Skanderbeg himself.
Walking through the crumbling gates and stone corridors, we imagined how it must have been: a living village within a fortress, with churches, houses, wells — even markets during feast days.
A Walk Through Faith and Ruins
Inside the castle walls, we found several small churches, each with its own history:
- The Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus, built in the 11th century, simple but powerful in spirit.
- All Saints’ Church, where we lit a candle and sat quietly — a place rebuilt after years of being shut down during Albania’s communist era.
- And further down a quiet path, Saint Michael’s Church, tucked between fig trees and wild herbs.
These are more than ruins. They are sacred spaces still breathing, even with broken roofs.
What Makes This Castle Special
Let’s be honest: there are many castles in Albania. But what makes Himara Castle stand out is its raw authenticity. No souvenir shops. No polished tourist trails. Just stone, sea, silence — and stories.
It’s also one of the best spots for sunset watching. We stayed until the sky turned gold and pink, and the sea reflected every shade.
Tip: Bring water and good shoes — the uphill walk is a bit of a climb, especially in summer. But trust us, it’s worth every step.
Media Features and Documentaries
The Castle of Himara has been featured in several Albanian media productions, including:
“The Castle of Himara and the Extraordinary History of Arbër and Skanderbeg”: A documentary episode by Rudina Xhunga, delving into the historical and symbolic legacy of the castle.
“Kalaja e Himarës shek IV. Albania” (YouTube): A visual exploration of the site’s architectural and natural beauty.
Plan Your Visit & How to Get There
If you’re into history, photography, or just peaceful walks away from the crowds, this place will steal your heart. Some locals even offer small guided tours or homemade raki as you pass through.
Reaching Himara Castle is part of the experience. You can take the short walk uphill from the old town of Himara — about 15–20 minutes on foot — or, for those seeking something more scenic and active, there’s a beautiful hiking trail that starts from Livadhi Beach.
Himara Castle Location – Click Here
Old cobblestone trail from Livadhi Beach
This lesser-known path winds through olive trees and stone ruins, taking you on a 40-minute uphill hike to the castle. It’s not just about the destination — this trail offers stunning coastal views, local flora, and moments of silence where you truly connect with nature.
Pro tip: Once you reach the top, take a break at Café Butterfly, a cozy spot perched right inside the castle area. Here you can enjoy a fresh coffee, cold drink, or homemade dessert while soaking in one of the best panoramic views of the Ionian Sea.
Himara Castle isn’t just a monument — it’s a memory still alive. It’s a reminder of what was, and an invitation to slow down, listen, and reconnect with something timeless.
