Porto Palermo Castle (Kalaja e Porto Palermos)

The exact origins of Porto Palermo Fortress are not fully clear. It is believed that fortifications existed at this site even before the 19th century. There are indications that the Turks either modernized an existing fortress or constructed a new one in 1662. Its current form is often attributed to the early 19th century, when Ali Pasha Tepelena, who sought independence for his Pashalik of Ioannina, had numerous fortresses built or renovated in what is now southern Albania. The complex primarily served to control the local population in the Himara region, who had repeatedly rebelled against Ottoman rule and later against Ali Pasha. In 1803, Ali Pasha offered the port and the fortress, which at the time possessed only a few cannons, to the British Royal Navy. During Albania's communist era, the fortress was used militarily and was part of a restricted area.

Porto Palermo Fortress is located on a peninsula in Porto Palermo, in the district of Vlora, in the Vlora region, Albania. It stands at an elevation of approximately 15 meters above sea level.

Today, Porto Palermo Fortress is accessible to visitors and can be explored. One can traverse the dark vaults and reach the roof, which offers a good view of the bay.

• Borsh Castle Ruin (Ruins), approx. 5.6 km away
• Kardhiq Castle Ruin (Ruins), approx. 21.5 km away
• Ancient City of Phoinike (Ancient Buildings), approx. 28.2 km away
• Lëkurësi Castle Ruin (Ruins), approx. 29.6 km away