Porto Palermo Castle
Porto Palermo Castle is one of the narrated stops on the self-guided The Albanian Riviera & Butrint audio walking tour in Gingerguide. Plan about ~45 min here. Press play at the spot for its two to three minute story, or ask the AI guide anything about it.
- Type castle
- Suggested visit ~45 min
- The Albanian Riviera & Butrint The Albanian Riviera & Butrint guide
About Porto Palermo Castle
Porto Palermo Castle, a triangular fortress on a small peninsula in a quiet bay south of Himarë, attributed to Ali Pasha, with vaulted rooms and a terrace over clear water.
The castle is usually attributed to Ali Pasha of Tepelena, in the early nineteenth century, though some historians think he rebuilt an older Venetian fort. It stood on a small island, later joined to the shore.
There is a small entry fee, paid in cash, and the castle is open in the daytime. Floors are uneven and stairs steep. The submarine tunnel across the bay is a closed military zone and can be seen only from outside.
Did you know? The name of Porto Palermo comes from the ancient Greek Panormos, a harbour sheltered on all sides, and has nothing to do with Palermo in Sicily.
How long should you spend at Porto Palermo Castle?
Plan about ~45 min at Porto Palermo Castle. That is enough to take it in and hear its narrated story; stay longer if it grabs you. The tour is self-guided, so there is no rush.
Is Porto Palermo Castle worth visiting?
Porto Palermo Castle is one of the 13 sights the Gingerguide team researched and narrated in The Albanian Riviera & Butrint, so it earns a place on a self-guided walk. Its story explains why it matters, and you can ask the AI guide anything the story leaves open.
Nearby stops in The Albanian Riviera & Butrint
The Albanian Riviera & Butrint guide →
Day 2 of the The Albanian Riviera & Butrint in 2 days itinerary →
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Hear the story of Porto Palermo Castle
Preview the The Albanian Riviera & Butrint tour free in the Gingerguide app.