From Stone to Sapphire: Gjirokastra and the Blue Eye Adventure

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Following a few hours of travel heading southwest, we arrive in the stone city of Gjirokastra. We ascend the city’s hill to visit Gjirokastra Castle, one of the largest castles in the region, rich in history and diverse cultural significance.

We descend the castle through a narrow cobblestone path and spend some time wandering through the streets of the Bazaar and admiring its characteristic buildings. The shops and restaurants make the area vibrant and highly appealing. Here, we’ll also stop for lunch.

After visiting the Bazaar, we take a short walk to one of the streets where the renowned writer Ismail Kadare once lived. Here, we’ll visit the museum house dedicated to his life and literary achievements.

Next, we’ll visit the Skenduli House, an ethnographic museum dating back to the 18th century. This tower house has survived through the centuries and provides a fascinating glimpse into the local traditions and cultural heritage.

After exploring the city of Gjirokastra with its centuries-old heritage, we head to the Blue Eye, a stunning natural oasis. This national park offers a spectacular environment where every visitor can relax and admire the mesmerizing beauty of nature.