The National Institute of Cultural Heritage, together with the Regional Directorate of Cultural Heritage in Gjirokastër, has resumed archaeological excavations at Gjirokastër Castle after 30 years.

Prime Minister Edi Rama shared footage of the archaeologists’ work on social media today. He noted that early discoveries include traces of a tower from the Late Antiquity period (5th–6th century AD).

“The excavations also uncovered the skeleton of a horse and a nearby warrior. In addition, archaeologists found artifacts from the Middle and Late Bronze Age. These finds shed light on the castle’s earliest construction phases and functions,” Rama said.

He added, “Excavations continue, and upcoming discoveries could reveal new insights into the city’s history and our cultural heritage.”

Gjirokastër Castle stands on a hill about 370 meters above sea level, near Mali i Gjerë. It measures 75 meters wide and 500 meters long. Five strong towers surround the castle to strengthen its walls.

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