Pogradec Castle, a Category I monument, is located southwest of Lake Ohrid, above the city of Pogradec, on a hill about 200 meters high, only 700 meters from the city center. Early settlement in this area dates back to the 5th century BC, initially as an unfortified settlement. In the 4th century BC, defensive walls were built and a small civic center developed, where the inhabitants were engaged in agriculture, fishing and crafts. In the 2nd century BC, the settlement was destroyed by a fire during the Illyrian-Roman-Macedonian wars. During the Roman period, the settlement was rebuilt, but was no longer surrounded by walls due to the long peace brought by Roman rule. Later, in the 4th century AD, with the beginning of the barbarian invasions, defensive walls were built again on the old traces. The new fortification remained active until the 9th century AD, when it was destroyed by Slavic invaders and then finally abandoned.
The castle can be reached either on foot or by car. The uphill road is challenging for regular vehicles, so 4×4 cars are recommended. For visitors, this is one of the most interesting locations, as it offers a complete and panoramic view of the city of Pogradec and the surrounding landscape.
