Exploration of Gjirokastra
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port
Sarande, Albania
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activityLevel
Strenuous Activity
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excursionType
All
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wheelchairAccessible
No
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startingAtPrice
$90
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minimumAge
Information Not Currently Available
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duration
Approximately 6½ Hours
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mealsIncluded
Meals included
Historic Centers of Berat & Gjirokastra UNESCO World Heritage Site
"Berat and Gjirokastra are inscribed as rare examples of an architectural character typical of the Ottoman period. Gjirokastra, in the Drinos river valley in southern Albania, features a series of outstanding two-story houses which were developed in the 17th century. The town also retains a bazaar, an 18th-century mosque and two churches of the same period." Learn more: https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/569/
Seabourn is the official cruise partner of UNESCO World Heritage.
Set out on a panoramic drive to Gjirokastra, a UNESCO World Heritage site town on the slopes of the Mali I Gjere hills. Overlooking River Drino, it is one of the most attractive towns in Albania and is nicknamed 'the town of a thousand steps'.
Upon arrival in Gjirokastra, visit the Old Fortress built in the 4th century. It is the largest castle in Albania and is situated on the top of a hill offering brilliant views. The National Amory Museum sits at the main entrance and tells the story Albanian weapons through the ages.
Explore the Old Bazaar Quarter, with shops huddling in narrow cobblestone streets and a church that dates back to 1780. Your guide will point out the Bazaar Mosque, built in 1757. It has a circular stone roof and a tall minaret.
Enjoy a walk with your guide through the Mecite Quarter, which features 17th-century Turkish baths, the Mecite Mosque and the Varosh Church (1776). You will stop at the Hotel Cajupi for a snack, including sampling local wines and a traditional Albanian pie; then, enjoy a little free time to explore the charming bazaar area. Continue tour with a scenic drive to the Mesopotamian Monastery. Although the interior of the monastery is still under reconstruction since work began a number of years ago, a brief stop will be made to allow you to view the exterior. Capture photos of this fine example of a Byzantine Fortified Monastery, built in the 12th century. The church was reconstructed in the 17th and 18th centuries and is named Saint Nicolas Church.
Enjoy a scenic drive back to the ship.
Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes. Travel time to Gjirokastra is approximately 1.5 hours each way.