Hidden Cities: Discovering Europe's Best-Kept Secrets

5. Gjirokastër, Albania: The Stone City of the Balkans

Gjirokastër, known as the "City of Stone," is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a glimpse into Albania's rich history and cultural diversity. The city's Ottoman-era architecture, characterized by stone houses with slate roofs, creates a distinctive skyline against the backdrop of the Drino Valley. Gjirokastër's castle, one of the largest in the Balkans, dominates the cityscape and houses several museums, including the National Museum of Armaments. The birthplace of the Albanian dictator Enver Hoxha, Gjirokastër is a city of contrasts, where visitors can explore its historical layers and enjoy its vibrant cultural festivals.