Krujë is most famous as the hometown of Albania’s national hero, Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg, who led a resistance against the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century. The city is home to the iconic Kruja Castle, a medieval fortress that played a pivotal role in Skanderbeg’s resistance efforts. The Old Bazaar in Krujë is another highlight, offering a vibrant atmosphere with traditional Albanian crafts, souvenirs, and local cuisine. Thanks of its unique blend of historical charm and natural beauty, Krujë is simply a must-visit place.
5 things not to be missed in and around Krujë
|
Skanderbeg has made the castle of Krujë its headquarters. When you see it, you’ll immediately understand why: it’s built on a distinctive rock rising above the valley that also appears to be tucked away behind steep slopes of Kruja Mountain, which rises to a height of more than 1,100 metres. Gorgeous views of the Adriatic and the central Albanian lowlands may be seen from this location.
Kruja is also one of the few Albanian cities that focus almost exclusively on tourism. The Old Bazaar is filled with souvenir shops with mugs with the Albanian eagle, bunker-shaped ashtrays, typical Albanian rugs etc. Souvenirs are also so popular in Krujë because many use it as their last stop before flying home. The International Airport of Mother Teresa is less than 20 kilometres away.
History of Krujë
The town was first mentioned in historical sources in 879 as the seat of a bishop during the Byzantine rule. Later it was governed by the noble family Arbëri (medieval name for Albanians), under whose command the first Albanian pre-state unit, the Principality of Albanon, was born at the end of the Byzantine Empire.
Almost everything you see today in the historical part of Krujë has some link with Skanderbeg, who settled in the castle in 1443 and organised his successful resistance against the Ottomans from here. The Turks chose Elbasan as their base and from there they launched their raids against the League of Lezhë, in which the Albanian nobles united under Skanderbeg’s command for a common defence.
The Turks unsuccessfully besieged Krujë three times (1450, 1463 and 1467). The last siege was personally attended by Sultan Mehmed II. After Skanderbeg died in 1468, the Albanian resistance gradually collapsed and the Turks finally conquered Krujë in 1478.
In 1832, a large part of the castle was destroyed during the anti-Turkish uprising and the same situation was repeated in 1906. Although both rebellions were unsuccessful, they confirmed Krujë’s reputation as a centre of resistance against Turkish rule. In 1968, Albanian communist leaders bestowed the title of Hero City on Krujë. In the early 1980s, the Skanderbeg Museum was opened in the castle.
Transport to Krujë
It’s barely an hour from Tirana to Krujë, with minibuses departing at frequent intervals from the northern bus station. Don’t confuse Krujë with the town of Fushë-Kruja, which lies on the main road towards Shkodër far below Krujë proper. If you do get on a minibus (or bus) to Fushë-Krujë, get off at the junction with the road leading to Kruja. Very likely there will be other minibuses ready to take you up into town.
TIP: Shorten any wait in Fushë-Krujë with a walk to the town centre. At the main intersection, you’ll come across a statue of US ex-president George W. Bush bearing a plaque that reads “Great Friend of the Albanians”. It is a reminder of his visit in 2007. Evil tongue claims that during the visit someone in the crowd stole his watch.
It’s about a half-hour drive from Krujë to Mother Teresa Airport, a taxi should cost you under 25 euros.
Sights in Krujë
Useful Links
Accommodation
Use Booking.com to find the best places to stay in Krujë.
Flights
Find the cheapest flights to Albania on Kiwi.com. It combines various airlines into a single itinerary.
Car Rental
Discover Albania with cheap & reliable car rentals through Rent from Locals.
Mobile data
Airalo provides affordable and convenient mobile data to keep you connected wherever you travel. Forget local SIM or roaming charges.
Experiences
Find a day trip to Krujë on Viator.com.