Rozafa Castle

Shkodra · Albanien · Fortress

Into the walls of Rozafa fortress a young mother was immured alive – a milk-white water still seeps from the stone.

Three brothers built the fortress above Shkodra, but whatever they raised by day collapsed by night. An old man advised them to wall in whichever of their wives brought the food the next day – and to betray nothing. The two elder brothers broke their oath and warned their wives, so it was the youngest brother's wife, Rozafa, who came. She accepted her fate but asked for openings in the wall for her right eye, hand, foot and breast, so she could see, caress, rock and nurse her infant son. The walls have stood ever since. The limestone water seeping from the stone shimmers milk-white, and nursing mothers still scrape the rock for the legend's sake. The tale was written down as early as 1505 by Marin Barleti.

FAQ

Where is Rozafa Castle located?

Rozafa Castle is in Shkodra, Albanien.