Explore Gjirokaster, visit a traditional Albanian village

--OAT: "Birthplace of Albanian dictator, Enver Hoxha, Gjirokaster is nicknamed 'City of Stone' for the distinctive stone roofs adorning its old homes."

After breakfast, we meandered up old brick and cobblestone streets to the Gjirokaster Castle situated at a height of 1,102 ft. It has existed in various forms since before the 12th century. Quite the view of the village below and the valley beyond.

We then hooked up with Theofanis and took the bus out of Gjirokaster to a small village of 25 families on the other side of the valley. The road to the village was the narrowest so far on the trip… not a problem for Fanis. Londi, our host for lunch, met us near his home. He shared with us some aspects of his organic lifestyle in the village… raising goats, gardening, and the making of raki. Lunch was at his home, a selection of tasty dishes, with baclava and homemade raki for dessert. We also got to meet his mother and two children. Although I did take pictures during this visit, they were lost when I tried to download them to my computer. It happens… fortunately, it was the only time during this trip.

Back in Gjirokaster, we also visited another home that had been in a family for generations, the Skenduli House. After World War II, Albania was taken over by the Communists until they left in 1991. Many homes, land, and businesses were forced to give up what was theirs to the Communist government. With the help of our tour leader, Erion, as a translator, we spoke with the man who was raised in a house that was taken away, then given back when the Communists left. Interesting story in the house where it all happened.

Dinner was on our own. Deciding to keep dinner simple, Peggy and I walked into town and found a small store to buy some sliced cheese and meat, a bunch of grapes, some biscuits made in Bulgaria, a bottle of wine, and took it back to our room.

Quick Photo Links: Gjirokaster Castle | A Man and His House