Tepelena – the city of Ali Pasha Tepelena and Vjose – the queen of the rivers of Europe

Tepelena, often called the town of Ali Pasha Tepelena, is located on a natural hill in the province of Derven in the very south of Albania.

Ali Pasha Tepelene, Photo: Patrick Muller, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.

Ali Pasha of Ioannina (or Tepelena) was an Albanian feudal lord and Pasha from Tepelenë. He made a fortune through being a hajduk. He distinguished himself as a cruel, daring, and capable military commander.

This city is crossed by the mighty river Vjosa, and its natural beauty is further emphasized by the proximity of the Shendelli mountain in the northeast, the Kurvelesh mountain in the central part, and the Golik mountain and the Mezhgoran gorge in the south.

Ali Pasha Bridge, Tepelene, Photo: Depositphotos

These natural features create a stunning landscape adorned by the confluence of Albania’s two magnificent rivers, the Vjosa and the Drin, making it a popular tourist destination.

The strategic position of Tepelena has been exceptional for centuries. This historically rich city hides the ancient walls of the fortress of Ali Pasha Tepelena, which miraculously hug the surrounding rocky terrain.

The history of Tepelena dates back to the 7th century when the foundations for this fortress were laid at the crossroads of strategic roads.

Tepelene, Photo: Patrick Muller, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

For those who want to explore the wonders of Tepelena, I recommend the following must-see attractions:

• The last wild river in Europe, the queen of rivers Vjosa.
• Ali Pasha’s castle, a testimony of history and architectural grandeur.
• Ali’s Benca Aqueductin, an engineering marvel of the past.
• The canyons and waterfalls of Nivice, a beautiful showcase of nature’s art.
• Holy places, including mosques, churches, and tekkes provide spiritual insights and cultural enrichment.

Tepelene, Photo: Patrick Muller, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.