Bashtova Castle Reopens After Earthquake Restoration

Albania’s Minister of Economy, Culture, and Innovation, Blendi Gonxhja, announced today that Bashtova Castle will reopen to visitors on August 29, following restoration works carried out after damage from the 2019 earthquake, CE Report quotes ATA.

“Once nearly forgotten and severely damaged by the 2019 earthquake, Bashtova Castle is coming back to life thanks to the support of the European Union and the EU4Culture program, implemented by UNOPS,” Gonxhja said.

The reopening ceremony will take place on August 29 at 16:00, where visitors will be able to witness the transformation of this historic monument.

Bashtova Castle is a medieval rectangular fortress located in fertile plains near the mouth of the Shkumbin River, facing the Adriatic Sea in central Albania, about 2 km from the village of Vilë Ballaj.

In the Middle Ages, the area served as an important grain trade port and was part of the historic Via Egnatia route, connecting the coast with the Balkan interior.

In 2017, Bashtova Castle was placed on UNESCO’s tentative World Heritage list, due to its unique location and historical significance.