Echoes of the Ionian: Discovering Porto Palermo-Must Visit! - Albania 360

Porto Palermo Castle, built by Ali Pasha, sits on a quiet peninsula between Himarë and Qeparo—just a 10-minute drive from either village. There are no buses, but locals might offer a ride. Still, renting a car is your best option to explore the coast freely. Visit on July 31st or August 17th to experience cultural festivals and traditional dances inside the castle walls. The setting is unforgettable—where mountains meet the sea and history meets celebration. Originally a gift of love and later a place of resistance, the castle now hosts some of the most atmospheric events in the region. Download the Albania360 app on iOS and Android to discover more places that feel just as rare.

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Ali Pasha of Tepelena built the Porto Palermo Castle in the early 19th century. While its main purpose was military, local accounts say he built it as a gift for his wife, Vasiliqia. He chose this quiet bay to give her a peaceful escape, away from the court life. The structure was built in a triangular shape with thick stone walls and a simple layout. It wasn’t made for show, but for use. Soldiers were stationed inside. Supplies were kept in the cool, dark rooms. But at the same time, it became a symbol of Ali Pasha’s reach and the people he cared for.

Some stories say Vasiliqia would visit during the summer months. She would stay in the upper rooms and enjoy the calm of the Ionian Sea. Whether or not this is fully documented, the belief remains strong among locals. It adds a layer of meaning when you walk through the castle—built not only for defense, but for someone he loved.

Every part of the interior was planned with defense in mind. The triangular shape, unusual but strategic, allowed soldiers to control all angles of approach. Each of the three round towers offered a wide range of visibility, making it easy to monitor land and sea without blind spots. The hallways inside are narrow and winding, which slowed down intruders and gave defenders the advantage. The gun slits carved into the walls weren’t random—they were positioned at eye level for shooting while remaining protected. Storage rooms sat deeper in the structure, used for ammunition and supplies, away from direct attack. The central courtyard served as a secure gathering point where soldiers could regroup quickly. Even the staircase to the rooftop was narrow and steep, making it harder for enemies to climb in the event of a breach.

Right outside the castle, you’ll find a small beach with calm waters and clean sand. This is one of the few spots in the area where the water stays shallow, making it ideal for a quiet swim. Bring your towel and spend a couple of hours relaxing on the shore. There are no bars or shops here, so prepare ahead. That silence is what makes the experience worth it.

During the summer, the interior of the castle becomes a stage. The Porto Palermo Festival has turned this site into a cultural destination. Classical concerts, small theater performances, and live music take place inside the walls. The echo in the stone rooms gives each show a different atmosphere. Locals and tourists alike sit on stone benches under soft lighting, surrounded by centuries-old architecture. As per a teaser that the page of Porto Palermo has posted at @portopalermofestival, on July 31st and August 17th some great festivals will take place inside the fortress, as mentioned in the beginning of the article. Make sure to book your stays in advance and look out for the tickets!