[[File:Lëkurësi Castle.jpg|thumb|Lëkurësi Castle overlooking Sarandë]]
Lëkurësi Castle (Albanian: ''Kalaja e Lëkurësit'') is a ruined castle near Sarandë, southern Albania. Perched on a strategic hilltop overlooking the modern city and the Ionian Sea, it is a significant historical and cultural landmark in the region.
Location
The castle is situated on a hill approximately 2 km (1.2 mi) southeast of the city center of Sarandë, offering panoramic views of the entire bay of Sarandë, the island of Corfu, and the surrounding countryside, including the Lëkurësi village below. Its elevated position provided excellent control over the port and the land route connecting Sarandë with Butrint.History
Lëkurësi Castle is believed to have been built in the 16th century, likely around 1537, by Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. The primary purpose of its construction was to control the port of Sarandë (then known as Porto Eda or Santas Quaranta) and to defend the area against Venetian attacks from Corfu. The Ottoman Empire was expanding its influence in the Balkans, and strategic fortifications were crucial for maintaining control over maritime trade routes and coastal settlements. The castle played a role in the Ottoman-Venetian Wars.During the late Ottoman period, the castle, like many others in the region, fell into disuse and eventually ruin, as military strategies evolved and the area's geopolitical importance shifted.
Architecture and Features
The castle has a square plan, measuring approximately 40 x 40 meters. It features four circular towers at each corner, typical of Ottoman defensive architecture of the period. The walls are constructed from local stone, and despite being largely in ruins, the general outline and several sections of the walls and towers are still visible. The main entrance was likely on the north side. Inside the courtyard, there would have been cisterns and other facilities to support the garrison.Current State and Significance
Today, Lëkurësi Castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Sarandë region. While largely ruined, efforts have been made to preserve and partially restore some sections. The site is particularly renowned for the breathtaking views it offers, especially at sunset.Within the castle walls, a restaurant and a small souvenir shop operate, catering to visitors. The castle complex also serves as a venue for various cultural events, concerts, and folk performances, especially during the summer months. It stands as a testament to the region's rich history and its strategic importance throughout different empires and periods.