The tour begins at the heart of the old town, the lively and historic Cerciz Topulli Square. From here, we head toward the Old Bazaar, an area that once functioned as the central marketplace of the city but today serves as a picturesque neighborhood filled with character. This is the first district built outside the castle walls and stretches right below the imposing fortress. Its cobblestone paths, traditional stone houses and quiet atmosphere make it one of the most charming sections of Gjirokaster, offering a perfect introduction to the city’s architectural identity.
As we continue our walk, we cross the Zerzebili Bridge and enter the ancient neighborhood known as Cfaka. This area is home to some of the city’s oldest houses, many of which are classified as first category monuments due to their unique architectural value and historical importance. Along the way, we also pass by a tekke belonging to the Bektashi Order, a spiritual sanctuary that adds a touch of cultural and religious depth to the tour. Cfaka is a beautiful harmony of nature and heritage, where old stone structures blend with open landscapes and flocks of sheep grazing on the surrounding hills.
From Cfaka we move toward Dunavat and then continue through scenic terrain until we reach our final destination, the Ali Pasha Bridge. This impressive stone bridge is one of the few remaining parts of the aqueduct built more than two centuries ago by Ali Pasha Tepelena. The aqueduct once carried fresh water from the mountains all the way to the castle, a remarkable engineering achievement for its time. Today, the bridge stands as a quiet but powerful reminder of the city’s long history and architectural ingenuity.
The entire tour lasts approximately three hours and requires walking across uneven and sometimes challenging terrain. Comfortable shoes are essential, as this experience takes you through old paths, historic neighborhoods and natural hillsides. Join us on this journey through time and discover another side of Gjirokaster, where history, tradition and nature come together in a truly unforgettable way.
