Elbasan

Known as Scampa (Latin) or as Il-Basan (Ottoman Turkish for ‘the fortress’) Elbasan is one of the largest cities in Albania. It lies to the north of the Shkumbin river between the Skanderbeg Mountains and the Myzeqe Plain in central Albania.

Elbasan formed around the crossing of two branches of the Via Egnatia, an important Roman road that connected the Adriatic coast to Byzantium, and eventually developed into a true city fortified by a Roman castle with towers. Given its strategic geographic location, the city was always vulnerable to attacks; yet, after surviving invasions by Bulgars and Ostrogoths, the place appeared to have been abandoned until the Ottoman army established a military camp against Albanian commander Skanderbeg. During the Ottoman period, it became the seat of Elbasan Sanjak, the centre of urban civilization and soon the fortress of Elbasan was constructed.

With a history of about 2 thousand years and being the largest field castle in Albania, Elbasan’s castle is one of the most visited attractions by tourists. Within its walls there are several cultural monuments that show the rich history of this city, including here: the Clock Tower, The King’s Mosque, the Church of Saint Mary and the old hammam.

For the Nature lovers, Elbasan offers access to Shebenik-Jabllanice National Park with pristine flora and fauna making it a perfect spot for outside activities such as walking, camping or pic-nic. At only 30 minutes far from the city, you have the opportunity to witness the picturesque 85 karstic lakes Belsh has to offer. And for those seeking adventures, Holta’s Canyon is the right destination leaving you completely speechless with its small waterfalls and crystal clear waters.