Center of Albania to Vermoshi, Theth , Valbona – The Miraculous Albania Alps
From Center of Albania to Vermoshi, Theth and Valbona
Tirana
Tirana, the heart and capital of Albania, like all other European metropolises has never-ending movement and energy. With its clubs, bars, cafes, and taverns, Tirana is worth discovering by both day and night. The hospitality shown towards tourists is something that will mark your journey not only in Tirana but also all over the country.
There are different thoughts regarding the origin of the name of the city. Some think that it relates to Tyrrenia (a name of Etruscan origins), while others believe that it relates to the word Theranda (harvest), or to the Tirkan (a castle at the foot of Mount Dajti).
Your own journey might begin by visiting the museums and the key spots such as Sheshi Skënderbej, where you will be able to see the Mosque of Et’hem Bey (built between 1798 and 1812) and the 35 m high Kulla e Sahatit (the Watch Tower), built-in 1822 with a San Marco style cupola. Next, you can visit the famous mosaic uncovered on the floor of an old Roman lodge. Its center configures the walls of the castle of the Roman emperor Justinian (A.D. 520).
The monumental Tomb of Kapllan Pasha and the Ura e Tabakëve (a bridge constructed at the beginning of the 19th century, located on Bulevardi Zhan D’Ark) are also worth visiting.
As a capital, Tirana has the country’s finest museums, theatres, and galleries representing the national arts. A visit to the National History Museum, the Archeological Museum. The Natural Science Museum, the private Mezuraj Museum, and the National Gallery of the Arts will leave wonderful memories.
You can also pass a pleasant evening in the National Theatre or the Opera and Ballet Theatre. For dining, Tirana offers both a rich traditional cuisine and a variety of foreign fares, from Italian to Chinese, or even Indian. There are also several clubs and restaurants on Mount Dajti to discover and enjoy. The mountain is reachable by cable car, which provides a fantastic view of the city. In the Tirana region, you may also visit the castles of Petrela and Preza, as well as some natural attractions, such as Pëllumbas Cave, Shkalla e Tujanit, and more.
Kruja
The historic city of Kruja lies on a panoramic mountain slope 32 km from Tirana, 600 m above sea level. The city is one of the most beautiful tourist spots due to its natural views and its history. Here, Gjergj Kastriot Skanderbeg protected Albania and Europe from the Ottomans. The most important attraction of the city is the Museum of the National Hero, Gjergj Kastriot Skanderbeg, situated in an Illyrian castle, which took its present facade during the 5th-6th century. The castle has nine towers, a few houses, and the Teqja e Dollmasë.
The Hamam is on the western side of the castle. Inside the castle grounds, you can also visit the Ethnographic Museum, a typical house made of çardak, which belonged to the illustrious Toptani family. The traditional market of Kruja stands near the castle. It is one of Albania’s largest handicrafts market. This bazaar has operated since the 15th century. On the top of the mountain over the town of Kruja is a religious spot called Sari Salltiku (Bektashi). There, visitors can find shelter and accommodation if they wish to climb. From there, travelers will find a magnificent view toward the valley and further to the Adriatic Sea.
Durrës
Durrës, home to the biggest seaport in the country, is located 34 km away from Tirana. It is the most ancient city in Albania, with almost 3,000 years of history. Its foundation dates back to 627 B.C. when the Corinthians and settlers from Corcyra invaded the Illyrian territory of the Taulants. The city is home to many ancient archaeological sites and finds. The most notable tourist attraction in Durrës is the amphitheater of the Roman Emperor Adrian with 15,000 seats. The second biggest amphitheater in the Balkans. During the 9th century, a small church with mosaic-covered walls was built nearby.
You can also see the bathhouses of the 2nd century A.D. and the nearby Byzantine forum of the 5th-6th century with marble columns. One-third of the original wall of the city castle is still standing, and you can even walk along the same road that Caesar himself once strolled. The Archeological Museum is located in a new building on Sheshi Taulantia. One of the most important of its kind and of great interest to visitors. The most renowned archaeological structure found in Durrës is “Bukuroshja e Durrësit,” a mosaic from the 4th century B.C. Today, it is exhibited in the National Historic Museum in Tirana. In addition to its historical value. Durrës is also a beautiful place to take a break, due to its sandy beaches, hotels, and urban feel. You will find excellent restaurants and accommodations all along the sea’s edge.
Vermoshi
Another interesting spot of the Western Alps is Vermosh, located in the northern-most mountains of Albania, 95 km from Shkodra in the region of Kelmend (from the Roman word “Clemens,” meaning gentle, simple, and good). The first thing that catches your eye along the journey is Qafa e Rrapshit, where you can see the crystal-clear waters of the Cemi River creating a beautiful contrast with the surrounding landscape. During summer, the ponds of the river are perfect for sunbathing and many visitors stop to lounge in the sun and enjoy themselves. Vermosh stands in an alpine field 1,100 m above sea level surrounded by high slopes. You can entertain yourself by trekking, mountain climbing, skiing, or fishing for mountain trout. The locals pride themselves that their cuisine is only truly enjoyable for visitors when accompanied by their own dairy products, so be sure to indulge.
Thethi
Located 70 km from Shkodra, you must pass Qafa e Tërthores at 2,000 m before descending to Gropa e Thethit by crossing a stream bearing the same name. It is a journey you’ll want to have your camera ready for, full of extended mountain views. With water cascading down craggy hillsides and trees reaching for sunlight on rocky slopes. The area is rich insights such as the waterfall of Grunau, 30 m high, the amazing cold-water sources of Okol, and the caves of Birrat me Rrathë (Round Holes) and Mount Arapi. In the park, people often amuse themselves by hiking. Mountain climbing, skiing (especially on the eastern slope), fishing, even mountain biking, and spelunking. Almost 90% of the parking area is covered by beech trees. Providing shade for many different types of flowers such as the Wulfenia Baldacci, discovered by the Italian botanist Baldacci.
Valley of Valbona
The Valbona River valley lies in the eastern part of the Albanian Alps. A national park of 8,000 hectares, it is one of the most beautiful natural areas in Albania. The park lies about 22 km from the alpine city of Bajram Curri. Before entering the valley you will find the spring (vrellen) of Shoshan, located only 3 km away from Bajram Curri. This spring rushes through limestone fissures on its way to the Valbona River creating an attractive canyon, 2-3 m wide and 50 m deep. After entering the valley, you will pass several picturesque villages.
The first, with alpine-style houses, is called Dragobia, and it is where the valley narrows. Past Dragobia, at the foot of the mountain where the Cerremi stream joins the Valbona River, is the famous cave where the national hero Bajram Curri was besieged and killed. It was after this event that the city took his name. Valbona is located 25 km away from the city of Bajram Curri and is the most important inhabited center of the valley. It is full of traditional houses that create a picturesque view in symmetry with the natural wonders of the valley. Which widens again at this point.
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