Rozafa Castle, also known as Shkodër Castle, proudly overlooks the city of Shkodër in northwestern Albania from its perch atop a rocky hill 130 meters above sea level. The castle’s origins date back to ancient times, with its current structure reflecting primarily Venetian influence. Scholars have linked the name “Rozafa” to “Resafa,” the place associated with Saint Sergius’s death, highlighting the region’s deep reverence for Sergius (known locally as Shirgji).
The strategic location of the hill has led to its continuous habitation since ancient times, serving as an Illyrian stronghold during the reign of the Labeates and Ardiaei, who established Scodra as their capital. The castle’s history intertwines with significant events, such as the Third Illyrian War, during which King Gentius of Illyria sought refuge in Scodra but was eventually captured by the Roman army. Livy’s account of the fall of the Ardiaean Kingdom in 168 BC illustrates the castle’s historical significance.
In a matter of days, he emerged victorious both on land and at sea, overcoming the resilient Illyrian tribe who had relied on their knowledge of the terrain and their fortified positions. Nestled within the castle’s walls are the remnants of a 13th-century Venetian Catholic church, believed to be St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Following the Ottoman Empire’s capture of Shkodër in the 15th century, the church underwent conversion into the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Mosque.
Throughout its history, the castle has been the scene of significant sieges, including notable conflicts in 1478-79 and 1912-13. Today, it stands as a part of the Archaeological Park of Albania, bearing witness to centuries of tumultuous events.
A famous legend associated with the construction of Rozafa Castle revolves around a sacrificial act known as immurement. Dating back to 1505 and documented by historian Marin Barleti, the tale tells of three brothers tasked with building the castle. In their struggle, they seek counsel from an elderly man who suggests sacrificing one of their wives. While two brothers betray their oath, the youngest remains true, confiding in his wife, Rozafa. Despite her maternal concerns, she bravely accepts her fate and makes a poignant request:
“I have only one plea. When you enclose me, leave openings for my right eye, hand, foot, and breast. I have a young son. With my eye, I will soothe his tears; with my hand, I will comfort him; with my foot, I will lull him to sleep; and with my breast, I will nurture him. Let my breast turn to stone, and may the castle prosper. May my son grow to be a mighty hero, ruler of the world.”
The enduring legend of Rozafa Castle has been captured in various forms, notably in the Serbian epic poem “The Building of Skadar,” published by Vuk Karadžić in 1815. In this rendition, the three brothers, symbolized by members of the Mrnjavčević family, grapple with moral quandaries, reflecting the complexities of human nature. Rooted in Albanian folk beliefs, the legend intertwines themes of maternal reverence and sacrifice, echoing the worship of the earth mother goddess. Local lore suggests that Rozafa’s selfless act continues to reverberate, symbolized by the perpetual flow of milkweeds and limestone stalactites within the castle’s ancient walls.
