“Where the whispers of history meet the song of the sea,
Porto Palermo, a lover’s embrace, Held by time, kissed by waves,
A romance carved in stone and salt.”

Porto Palermo Castle (Kalaja e Porto Palermos) is one of Albania’s most intriguing historic fortresses, perched dramatically on a small peninsula in the scenic Bay of Porto Palermo, along the Albanian Riviera between Himarë and Qeparo.

Historical Significance

Although defensive structures have likely stood here since antiquity due to the bay’s strategic position, the current fortress was built in the early 19th century by Ali Pasha of Tepelena, a powerful regional ruler of the Ottoman era. He fortified the site to protect the coastline and control maritime routes.

An inscription above the entrance dates construction to 1804, attributed to French engineers working for Ali Pasha. At that time, the fort housed a small garrison and cannons, though its military importance seems to have been limited.

Local tradition also tells a more personal story: according to some 19th-century chroniclers, Ali Pasha built or expanded the castle as a gift for his beloved wife, Vasiliqia, adding a romantic layer to its history.

Architecture and Layout

Porto Palermo Castle has a triangular plan with three powerful bastions at each corner — a design evocative of Venetian forts in the region — and stone walls rising to about 20 m in height.

The fortress stands on what was once a small island, now connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of land created with soil and stones. The main entrance sits in the southern wall, and inside are vaulted rooms and terraces where soldiers once lived; one chamber even served as a prison.

Cultural and Tourism Importance

Today, Porto Palermo Castle is recognized as an important cultural monument and draws visitors for both its historical aura and its breathtaking setting above the turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea.

The surrounding bay — historically known as Panormos — provides a beautiful backdrop that enhances the castle’s appeal for photographers, history lovers, and travelers exploring the Albanian Riviera.

While the interior can be stark and minimal, the views from the terrace and the coast — where sea meets fortified stone — make Porto Palermo a memorable stop on any tour of Albania’s coastal heritage