Libohova Castle is an important historical monument in southern Albania, located above the town of Libohova, in the Gjirokastra district, from where it offers a panoramic view of the town and the surrounding valley. It was built in the late 18th century by Ali Pasha Tepelena as a wedding gift for his sister, Shaniša, who married a member of the Libohova family. According to most historical sources, the main construction of the castle took place between 1796 and 1798, although it was built on the ruins of an older fortification, and the area has evidence of habitation dating back to the early centuries BC.
The castle has a typical medieval structure, with fortified walls, four corner towers, protected entrances and an almost square shape measuring about 70 × 80 meters. Inside it were residential buildings and structures for storing weapons and food, functioning as a feudal residence for Shanisha and her family. The strategic position of the castle allowed control of the city and the surrounding valley, playing an important defensive role over the centuries.
Today, Libohova Castle is classified as a “Cultural Monument” and is a popular tourist destination for visitors who want to explore history and enjoy the beautiful landscapes. There are no longer any habitable buildings inside, but the walls and defensive structures remain. In recent years, efforts have been made to clean, restore and preserve it, making it an important point of the cultural and historical heritage of the area.
