Kimsenin Bilmediği Arnavutluk: Kaleleri, Gölleri ve Gizli Cennetleri

Kimsenin Bilmediği Arnavutluk: Kaleleri, Gölleri ve Gizli Cennetleri

Our journey begins in the sky. From the plane window, we see Tirana, the capital of Albania . As we land in the heart of the Balkans… We wonder what kind of story this country will greet us with. Here is the heart of Tirana, Skanderbeg Square. In the middle of this area, one of the most important symbols of Albanian history, rises the statue of Skanderbeg, the symbol of the struggle for independence. This monument on horseback represents the spirit of freedom of the people. Today, it is a meeting point for both the public and visitors. Around the square, there are remarkable structures of the city . First among these is the clock tower, which has become the symbol of Tirana. Built in 1822, this tower, with its height of 35 meters, has kept the city’s time for centuries. Right next to the tower is the Ethem Bey Mosque with its elegant architecture. Built in the late 18th century, this mosque is one of the most special examples of Ottoman art in the Balkans. With the decorations and landscape depictions on its walls, it has been a witness to the city’s history for centuries. These two structures are the most important works that complete the historical texture of the square. Now, after the Ethem Bey Mosque, we move on to the Namazgah Mosque in Tirana, the foundation of which was laid in 2015. This modern mosque, opened in 2024, is inspired by Ottoman architecture. With its 4 minarets and a capacity of 10,000 people, it is the largest place of worship in Tirana today. After the mosques in Tirana, there are two important castles on our route. Our first stop is Bashtova Castle , Turkey. Located approximately 40 kilometers southwest of Tirana, next to the mouth of the Shkumbin River, this structure was built by the Venetians in the 15th century. It was later used during the Ottoman period and played a role in controlling coastal trade routes. This rectangular castle has walls of approximately 9 meters. Its towers are 12 meters high. Its western facade was renovated in the 18th century. Today, the castle, which is on UNESCO’s tentative list, is a typical example of Adriatic coast defense. After Bashtova Castle, our journey extends to the south of Tirana. Petrela Castle, rising at the foot of the mountains, attracts attention with its deep-rooted history. Its first foundations were laid during the reign of the Byzantine Emperor Justinian. It gained its current appearance in the 15th century. With its triangular plan and watchtowers, the castle has been one of the most important defense points in the region for centuries . Its strategic location makes it one of the most important defense points in the region . It formed a defensive line together with Kruje Castle. Communication was provided by fire and smoke signals. During the Ottoman period, Skanderbeg’s sister, Mamika Kastrioti, served as a commander here. Today, Petrela Castle continues to attract visitors not only with its historical atmosphere but also with its fascinating view overlooking the Erzen Valley. As we leave Petrela Castle and head northeast of Tirana, the landscape along the mountain roads gradually changes. The chaos of the city is left behind. The sound of silence and nature echoes. Rising hills. Stretching between green valleys and rugged cliffs, this route takes us to Lake Bovilla, a hidden beauty in Albania. This lake, shining among the mountains with its turquoise tones, is almost like a mirror of nature. With its tranquility , clarity and peaceful atmosphere, it offers a unique escape for those who want to escape the crowds of Tirana. However, Bovilla is not just a natural beauty; this lake was formed thanks to the Bovilla Dam, built in the 1990s to meet Tirana’s water needs . The dam, which is approximately 91 meters high, has a water storage capacity of 80 million cubic meters. It is one of the most important engineering structures in Albania. The dam is located on the Tirana River and thanks to the limestone cliffs around it. The water’s clarity is maintained year-round. Today, Bovilla is both the city’s source of life and a unique viewpoint for those who want to spend time in touch with nature. As we return to the city from the silence of Bovilla Lake, Tirana comes to life again. The serenity of the day gives way to lights, crowds, and the lively rhythm of the streets. Music in the modern streets of Blloku. Conversation and laughter mingle. Colorful shop windows . People strolling along the streets. Warm lights filtering through the windows. Everything is part of the energy that keeps this city’s nights alive. While the cafes are overflowing, the city breathes with its own energy. Every corner has a different story, a different face. Tirana carries both its past and builds its future. This is not just the capital of Albania. A city reborn with the night that finds its own rhythm. Leaving Tirana behind, we turn our route north. After about 90 kilometers, we reach Shkodra, one of Albania’s oldest settlements. Shkodra, one of the country’s oldest settlements, dates back to the 4th century BC. Today, with its wide boulevards, central square, and surrounding buildings, it is known as the “Shkodra”. One of the Balkans’ most vibrant cultural and commercial centers, Shkodra, bearing the traces of many civilizations from the Romans to the Ottomans, remains the heart of Northern Albania. In Shkodra, we head to the city’s most magnificent structure: Rozafa Castle, built on a rocky hill overlooking the confluence of the Buna and Drin rivers. This castle, a layered defense with Illyrian origins, was strengthened during Roman rule. It was repaired by Byzantium and then Venice in the Middle Ages. It retained its strategic importance with its bastions and gates during the Ottoman period. Its three-courtyard plan, cisterns, and observation points oversaw the region for centuries. Its legend is also famous. The Rozafa story, which tells of a young mother being sacrificed to keep the walls standing, gives the castle its name. The approximately 130-meter-high hill was chosen to oversee the routes opening to the Adriatic and the Lake Shkodra Basin. Today, ruins and a small museum can be seen in the castle. From these walls, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the Shkodra Plain, the Drin and the Buna, and the lake. Located just south of Rozafa Castle on the Albanian-Montenegro border, Lake Shkodra is the largest lake in Southern Europe. The lake’s surface area changes seasonally. During the rainy season, it decreases to 530 square kilometers and during the dry months, it decreases to 370 square kilometers. Approximately one-third of the lake is in Albania . The rest is in Montenegro. The Moraça River, coming from the north, feeds the lake . The Buna River, its only outlet, passes through Shkodra and reaches the Adriatic Sea. Lake Shkodra is one of the richest freshwater ecosystems in the Balkans. Approximately 45 fish species and 270 bird species live in these waters. Among the lake’s fish species, eel, catfish, mullet, sea bass , and crane stand out. The lake also hosts special species such as the Iskadar silverfish, the Iskadar redeye , and the Montenegrin mudfish, which are only seen in this region. Bird diversity is also remarkable. Yellow-billed pelican, gray heron, cormorant , duck, and kingfisher are frequently observed. Lake Shkodra is under international protection under the RAMSAR Convention and is located at the center of both ecological and economic balance in northern Albania. Now, we leave the wide waters of Lake Shkodra behind and move east along the Drin Valley. As the mountains rise, the view. Valleys are narrowing River noise is increasing This road brings us to Lake Komani. It is an artificial lake created by the Koman Dam on the Drin River. This lake is approximately 34 kilometers long and winds between limestone cliffs. While its width reaches 400 meters at some points, it turns into a narrow river passage in most places. The Shala and Valbona rivers join the lake. Their waters then return to the Adriatic along the Drin. The Komani Fier expedition boat, which runs on it , passes through this magnificent valley and offers visitors one of the most impressive natural rooms in Albania. As we move away from the Komani region, the terrain changes rapidly. River valleys give way to rising mountain ranges. This region is the foothills of the Prokletije Mountains, which lie in the north of Albania. The average altitude exceeds 2000 meters. The climate becomes harsher and the roads narrow. This geography takes us to the entrance line of the Theth Valley, towards the highest residential areas of the country. Theth was granted national park status in 1966 and is under protection. With a surface area of ​​​​approximately 2630 hectares. It is one of the oldest protected natural areas in Albania. The region attracts attention with its altitude varying between 1200 and 2560 meters. In terms of flora, beech , oak, juniper and black pine forests are common. In addition, mountain flowers that grow only in this mountain range are found. Endemic herbaceous plants such as wild thyme, yarrow and mountain mint are found in the region . In terms of fauna, the park is home to species such as ibex, roe deer, brown bear, wolf and eagle. It is considered one of the most important nature protection areas in northern Albania with its rich ecosystem. It is a natural karst water source located near the village of Kapre. The ice-cold water coming out of the ground creates a rocky pool. Its color varies between turquoise and emerald green due to the limestone minerals in it and it maintains its coldness throughout the year. Theth Church is located in the center of the valley in the shadow of the surrounding mountains. Built in the late 19th century, this Catholic building has become the symbol of Theth with its stone walls and pointed roof. It was used for different purposes during the communist period. It has been restored and restored to its original state in recent years. Today, it is a place of both faith and It is also a silent witness to mountain village life. Gurunas Waterfall is one of the most striking natural formations in Theth National Park. Its water, falling from a height of approximately 25 meters, flows through the surrounding limestone rocks. The waterfall is fed by the Grunas River and has a strong flow throughout most of the year. The region was protected as a Natural Monument in 2002. The source of the water is the melting snow in the mountains. Even in summer, the water is extremely cold. This sound of water, which breaks the silence of the Theth Valley, accompanies us to the last stop of our journey in the north. As we leave the mountainous heart of Albania, a simple but unforgettable natural heritage remains behind. Leaving the mountainous northern route behind, a different texture welcomes us in the south of the country. This is Berat, one of the most original examples of Ottoman and Albanian architecture. Its white stone houses, with windows lined up on top of each other, have earned it the name of the City of a Thousand Windows. The city, a settlement since the 13th century, is now on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The Gorica Bridge, connecting the two sides of the city, was built in the 18th century. This stone bridge, approximately 130 meters long, is located in Osun. It is located on the river. It has become one of the symbols of Berat with its seven-arched structure and white stone blocks. Berat Castle is located on a hill overlooking the Osun River valley in southern Albania. Its foundation dates back to ancient times. It was fortified during the Byzantine period. It became an important settlement during the Ottoman period. Today, it is the most prominent symbol of Berat, which is on the UNESCO World Heritage List. There are more than forty church ruins within the castle. There are several mosques and Ottoman-era houses. The city walls are approximately 1000 meters long and dominate the city. The Red Mosque, located within the castle, is one of the mosques that survived from this period. With its brick minaret and simple architecture, it is a unique example of Ottoman worship structures. The St. Michael Church, located on the southern slope of Berat Castle, was built in the late 13th century. It draws attention with its rock-carved location and frescoes. This structure is one of the best-preserved examples from the Byzantine period that has survived to the present day. The Osun Canyon is located near Çorovoda, southeast of Berat. This canyon, approximately 26 kilometers long, was formed by the erosion of the Osun River over thousands of years and has become one of the most recognizable natural beauties of Albania. Gjirokaster is a historical city in southern Albania. It is on the UNESCO World Heritage List with its stone houses, narrow streets and well -preserved Ottoman-era architecture. Gjirokaster Castle is located on a hill overlooking the city. It is the symbol of this region, famous for its houses. Its establishment dates back to the Byzantine period . It was expanded by Ali Pasha Tepedelenlii during the Ottoman period. Thanks to its strong city walls and location, it has been used as a strategic defense point throughout history. Today, it stands as one of the best-preserved castles in Albania with its stone architecture overlooking the Drino Valley. In drone images, the castle’s wide roof and the panorama extending to the city of Gjirokaster are clearly visible. When you enter the castle, stone stairs. High walls and open courtyards attract attention. The general plan of the structure consists of narrow passages and corridors created for defense purposes. One of the most distinctive elements of the castle is the Clock Tower. Built in the 19th century, this tower has become the symbol of both the city and the castle. The clock tower, integrated with the stone architecture of Gjirokaster, is one of the most characteristic structures that watches the city from above. Gjirokaster Castle is one of the most remarkable examples of Albania’s historical heritage with its splendor that carries the traces of the past to the present. The market square located in the center of Gjirokaster is the heart of the city’s social and cultural life. Surrounded by stone-paved streets and traditional houses, this area has been the city’s trade and trade center from the Ottoman period to the present. It has been a meeting point. The monument to national heroes in the square is dedicated to Albania’s struggle for independence. Today, with its surrounding cafes and shops, it maintains its vitality as a popular destination for both locals and visitors . Langarica National Park, located near the city of Permend in southern Albania, is a fascinating valley where nature has preserved its purest form. This canyon, shaped by the Langarica River over the centuries, transports its visitors to another world with its steep cliffs, green slopes and mystical atmosphere. Benja Thermal Springs, created in the heart of the valley, are a frequent destination for both locals and travelers with their naturally occurring hot waters emerging from underground. These thermal waters, collected in stone pools, are believed to be healing and flow at the same temperature throughout the year. The historic Kadı Bridge, located right next to the thermal springs, with its elegant stone arches dating back to the Ottoman period, is a silent witness connecting the past and the present. This bridge, as if floating on the river, preserves the traces of centuries in its stones. Ali Pasha Bridge, located on the Langarica River in southern Albania. It was built in the 18th century during the Ottoman period. This stone bridge, approximately 20 meters long, was built to connect the transportation routes of the period and still stands strong today. Located on the western coast of Albania, Durrës is one of the oldest port cities in the country. This city, opening to the Adriatic Sea, is of great importance in terms of both tourism and maritime trade. In the city center, there is a magnificent structure that has survived from ancient times to the present day. The Ancient Roman Theater of Durres, built in the 2nd century, was one of the largest stages of the Roman period with a capacity of approximately 15,000 spectators. This area, which is still being excavated today, sheds light on the thousands of years of Durres’s history. As we move north from Durres, we come across the city of Kruje, a symbol of Albanian history. The Skanderbeg Museum, located in the center of the city, is dedicated to the life of Albanian national hero Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg and his resistance against the Ottoman period. The museum exhibits Skanderbeg’s war tools, armor, letters and documents from the period. This structure was built in 1982 to symbolize Albania’s national identity. Kruje Castle, rising just above the museum, is a defensive structure dating back to the 5th century. A strategic point in the region during the Middle Ages, the castle served as the center from which Skanderbeg led his resistance against the Ottoman armies. Today, with its restored walls , museum, and stone streets, it offers visitors the opportunity to witness Albania’s history up close. The Church of Saint Astius in Durres was built in this city where the Apostle Paldus visited to spread Christianity. The church is dedicated to Saint Astius, a student of Paldus and the first bishop of Durres. Rodon Point, extending towards the Adriatic coast, is one of the most impressive natural spots in Albania. With its rocky shores, green hills, and a horizon that meets the blue, it attracts both history and nature enthusiasts. This peninsula, which has witnessed storms , wars, and sailors’ stories for centuries, is the address of peace and quiet. And Rodon Point attracts attention not only with its natural beauty but also with the historical traces it bears. At the tip of the cape, Rodon Castle, standing tall against the sea, is located. The castle was built in the 1450s. It was built by Skanderbeg, Albania’s national hero. The aim was to strengthen the coastal defense against the Ottoman advance. In 1467, the Ottoman army largely destroyed the castle, but shortly after, in 1500, the Venetians rebuilt the castle and made it a defensive point on the Adriatic coast. Today, although a part of Rodon Castle is submerged under sea waters, Skanderbeg’s spirit of resistance still echoes within its stone walls. Against the blue waters of the Adriatic, history continues to breathe silently here. We leave the shores of Durres behind. The road extending south along the Adriatic now brings us to Avlonya. This city, known as Avlon in ancient times, has a special place in history as the place where Albania declared independence . Palermo Castle, located within the borders of the city of Alonia on the Adriatic coast, has a special place in history as the place where Albania’s independence was declared. Surrounded by the sea, Palermo Castle is one of the most impressive structures in Albania. This castle was built by the Ottomans in the 16th century and was used to ensure the security of the Pasha Liman Bay. This structure, with its walls extending into the sea, has served both military and superstructure purposes for centuries. It also served as an observation point. It was part of the strategic defense line of the region during the Ottoman period and was used in various conflicts in the following centuries. Despite earthquakes and natural erosion, Palermo Castle has managed to survive today. Its stone walls, towers overlooking the shore, and the natural beauty surrounding it keep the past of Avlonya alive. This quiet structure bears the silent traces of centuries. Livadhi and Lukova Beaches, which lie along the Albanian Riviera, are among the most enchanting beaches of the Adriatic. Livadhi, with its wide sandy beach and clear waters, is the address for those seeking peace. This beach, shining under the sun in the summer months, has a simple yet impressive beauty. A little further south, we come across Lukova Beach, famous for its rocky coves. This beach, which has preserved its natural structure, looks like a hidden paradise with its turquoise tones. Both beaches reflect the natural elegance of the Albanian coast and the silence intertwined with the sea in its purest form. Located between the Albanian Riviera, Logara National Park is a natural beauty area where the sea meets the mountains. At an altitude of approximately 1000 meters, it offers a bird’s-eye view of the Ionian Sea below. With its cool air, pine forests, and wild nature, it is one of the most special regions of Albania. As you proceed through the natural pass, the roads leading to the coast approach the blue horizons of Palase. Palase Beach is one of the most impressive beaches on the Albanian Riviera, extending after the Logara Pass. With its pure white pebbles and turquoise color, it creates a unique landscape where the sea and the mountains meet. Ideal for windsurfing and nature walks, Plase offers its visitors a peaceful escape with its tranquility and clear waters. As you leave Plase Beach, the landscape begins to change. The Karaburun Peninsula appears on the horizon. It is one of the most natural and untouched areas in Albania. This peninsula is located within the boundaries of the Karaburun Sazan Marine National Park. Caves along its coasts, hidden coves and overhanging cliffs give the region a unique character. This area, where the untouched nature of the Mediterranean is protected, is also known for diving tourism and boat trips. Shipwrecks in deep waters are hidden in underwater caves and colorful marine life. Maquis plants along the coast and bird songs give a serene spirit to this quiet region. Perhaps this is why there are few modern facilities in Karaburun. It is an ideal escape for those who want to get away from the crowds and be alone with nature. At sunset, the rocky shores take on an orange glow while the Adriatic Sea breathes quietly. And so, the journey that started in Plase ends in this unique peninsula where nature and sea embrace . As you move away from the rocky shores of the Karaburun Peninsula, a new landscape emerges in southern Albania, where history and nature intertwine. Ali Pasha Castle Rising amidst the quiet lagoon waters, Ali Pasha Castle was built by Tepdenli Ali Pasha in the early 19th century to protect the Kale Vivari Channel and the surrounding waterways. This structure, which once controlled maritime trade, is today a silent witness to the past, surrounded by water. Butrint Lagoon, which extends around the castle, is a large natural area where fresh and salt waters meet. It is a stopping point for migratory birds. It is a source of livelihood for fishermen and a peaceful haven for nature lovers. This tranquil lagoon is located within the Butrint National Park, surrounded by historical ruins . Here, history continues to live in the silence of the water. The Ancient Theatre of Butrint is located within the boundaries of the Butrint National Park in southern Albania. The structure was first seen in the Hellenistic period, before Christ. It was built in the 3rd century and later expanded during the Roman period. The theater, which could accommodate approximately 1,500 to 2,000 people, was built at the foot of the Acropolis in the southern part of the city. The structure is constructed of limestone blocks and includes classical sections such as the orchestra, the Kavea, the rows of seats, the Paradoi, the side entrances, and the stage building, the Skynaia, and the Frons. The theater was used not only for artistic performances but also for public gatherings and religious ceremonies. During excavations, horses and inscriptions belonging to freed slaves were found in the seating rows. This demonstrates the building’s social function. Archaeological data indicates that the theater’s Hellenistic plan was preserved during the Roman period. Only the stage building was expanded and remodeled. Today, the theater’s lower seating rows, the stage section, and the stone inscriptions are still quite well preserved. The Baptistery of Butrint is one of the best-preserved religious buildings from the Byzantine period in Albania. Built in the 6th century AD , it was used for worship during the early Christian period. The octagonal baptismal pool in the center was used in ceremonies symbolizing purification and rebirth by water. The mosaics decorating the floor are notable examples of Christian art from the period. Fish, birds, and plants. The motifs symbolize life, faith and spiritual renewal. These mosaics are located just south of the important ancient city of Butrint in Albania. Ksamill Beach is one of the most famous beaches of the Albanian Riviera. Its waters are notable for its fine white sand and turquoise sea. Its waters are shallow and calm. It is suitable for swimming and diving. The Ksamill Islands, located off the coast, consist of small natural islets. These islands offer one of the most beautiful views of the Ionian Sea with their clear waters and untouched nature. Lekuresi Castle was built by the Ottomans in the 16th century. It is located in a strategic position overlooking Saranda and the Ionian Sea . Lezhe is a historical city located in northern Albania. Lezhe Castle in the city dates back to ancient times and has been used as a strategic defense point for centuries . When we go south from the historical walls of the north, we come across one of the oldest settlements in Albania. The Ancient City of Apollonia. The city was founded in the 6th century BC by colonists from Corinth and Corcyra. The city was an important center of trade, culture and learning in ancient times. It has become one of the most magnificent structures of the period dedicated to the gods. Its columns are still standing today. The region maintained its vitality during the Roman period and over time it became a religious and intellectual center. The Church of the Virgin Mary is located in the ancient city of Apollonia and dates back to the 13th century. Built during the Byzantine period, the structure attracts attention with its architecture composed of stone and brick. In the following centuries, monastery sections were added around it and it was used as a religious center. Today, the church is one of the important structures of the Apollonia Archaeological Park. The Ardenika Monastery is located there. It was built during the Byzantine period in the 13th century and played an important role in the religious life of the period. The complex attracts attention with its monks’ rooms and stone altars. According to historical records, the wedding of the Albanian hero Skanderbeg was also held here. Karavasta National Park is located in the province of Fier in western Albania. It covers a large area of ​​​​approximately 22,000 hectares and forms one of the largest lagoon ecosystems in the country . In this region, where fresh and salt waters meet, hundreds of bird species, especially Dalmatian pelicans, live. This park is protected under the RAMSAR convention. And it is recognized as a biosphere reserve by UNESCO And it is also one of the most developed nature areas in Albania in terms of ecotourism and bird watching The Valbona Valley is located in the Tropoya region of Kukes County in northern Albania The valley, which lies between the Prokletiye Mountains, was declared a national park in 1996 The park, covering an area of ​​​​approximately 8000 hectares, is shaped around the Valbona River With its rich vegetation and mountain villages, it is one of the most important ecotourism centers of the country The valley is also a part of the Drin River basin This water line is connected to many natural formations in the north Skakavica Waterfall is located in Kukes County in northern Albania The waterfall, which is about 30 meters high, is fed by mountain waters, one of the sources of the Valbona River The region has a preserved ecosystem with its cool climate and natural appearance throughout the year The Resurrection Cathedral is located in the city of Korçe in southeastern Albania It was built in 1992 And is one of the largest Orthodox cathedrals in the country The cathedral was destroyed during the communist period The Old Saint It was built on the site of the St. George Church. It has a large dome in its center, and bell towers are placed symmetrically around it. Its interior features icons, frescoes, and marble columns. The building is located in the city center. Besides religious services, cultural events are also held. Throughout this journey, we told the story of a country’s culture, history, and heritage from past to present. There was a trace at every stop. There was a story in every structure. We only brought them to light. Don’t forget to like the video, comment , and subscribe to the channel for new episodes.

📌 Türkçe:
Bu belgeselde Arnavutluk’un kalelerini, şehirlerini, dağlarını, göllerini ve doğal güzelliklerini keşfediyoruz. Drone görüntüleri eşliğinde ülkenin tarihî dokusunu, doğal mirasını, kıyılarını ve kültürel zenginliklerini inceliyoruz. Amacımız; dünyayı öğretici, tarafsız ve sinematik bir anlatımla izleyiciye sunmak. Keşfet, öğren ve dünyanın farklı yüzlerine bizimle birlikte tanıklık et.

NOT:Bazı kaynaklara göre Porto Palermo Kalesi, 16. yüzyılda Venedikliler tarafından bölgede daha önce var olan tahkimat temelleri üzerine inşa edilmiş olabilir; ancak bu bilginin dayanağı zayıftır.
Günümüzdeki hâlinin, 19. yüzyıl başında Tepedelenli Ali Paşa tarafından Osmanlı döneminde yeniden inşa edildiği kabul edilmektedir.

📌 English:
In this documentary, we explore Albania’s castles, historic cities, mountains, lakes and natural landscapes. Through cinematic drone footage, we uncover the country’s cultural richness, heritage and spectacular nature. Our mission is to present the world with an educational, neutral and cinematic documentary perspective. Discover, learn and witness the hidden sides of our world with us.
NOT:According to some sources, Porto Palermo Castle may have been built in the 16th century by the Venetians on earlier fortification foundations in the region; however, the evidence for this claim is weak.
The present structure is believed to have been rebuilt in the early 19th century during the Ottoman period by Ali Pasha of Tepelena.

📩 İletişim / Contact: ahmet0717@gmail.com
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