Gjirokastër County has 697 tourism resources, including cultural sites, historical and archaeological objects, natural monuments such as caves and gorges, places of worship, and traditional buildings. Those wishing to book a hotel in Gjirokastër County can then continue searching for accommodation.
Culture
The region has 591 historical, archaeological, and cultural heritage monuments. Of the 697 tourism resources, 30 are designated as protected areas. The region’s tourism resources are described as supporting cultural, green, and rural tourism.
Gjirokastër County includes 12 castles that attract visitors interested in their history. Gjirokastër preserves an extensive area of medieval buildings with rare architecture and significant cultural and historical heritage. In the Drino Valley, the archaeological resources are concentrated around ancient Antigonea and the Amphitheatre of Adrianople.
Gjirokastër Castle dates from the 4th century and acquired its present form during the Ottoman period. It houses a weapons museum, the ruins of a prison from the communist era, and an American fighter aircraft associated with the Cold War. Gjirokastër’s Old Bazaar preserves Ottoman architecture; small shops there offer handicrafts, local products, and traditional souvenirs. Antigonea was founded in 295 BC by King Pyrrhus of Epirus. Ali Pasha’s 16-metre-high stone aqueduct was built around 1812–1813 to supply Gjirokastër Castle with water from Mount Sopot.
Nature
The region’s mountainous area and the Bënçë Valley are described as suitable for alpine tourism and mountaineering competitions. The Vjosa river system is described as an area offering conditions for river sports tourism. The caves in Progonat and Nivicë in Kurvelesh are presented as opportunities for exploration tourism. The thermal waters of Bënjë are described as a potential tourist attraction due to their healing properties.
Hotova-Dangëlli National Park lies northeast of Përmet and is characterised by high biodiversity. Langarica Canyon is a geological formation with high rock walls and clear water. The Bënjë Baths are located on the Lengarica River at the entrance to Langarica Canyon and are known for their mineral-rich natural thermal springs. Hiking, exploration, and nature photography are also mentioned in Langarica Canyon.
The Vjosa River offers rafting, fishing, and walks along the riverbank.
Regional Cuisine
Rural tourism includes converting rural houses into guesthouses, thereby promoting customs, village life, and local cuisine. Qifqi is a traditional dish from the Gjirokastër area, prepared mainly with eggs, fresh cheese, and flour, and sometimes with aromatic herbs. Gliko e Përmetit is a culinary tradition made from seasonal fruits using traditional methods, often served on holidays or given as a gift. Cabbage pie is a traditional dish from the Tepelena area, prepared with hand-rolled dough and fresh wild-growing or locally cultivated cabbage.
History
Tepelena Castle was built in the 17th century and served as an important defensive point. It offers panoramic views over the city and the Vjosa River. The Tepelena Historical Museum displays archaeological, historical, and ethnographic objects, as well as documents from several periods, including the era of Ali Pasha, the struggle for independence, the Second World War, and communism.
Other places in the region include: Goranxi, Tepelenë District, Peshtan, Përmet, Sheper, Tepelena District, Gjirokastër
