Founded in the IV century B.C., i: was the chief town of Illyrian tribe
of Labeats and later on during the reign of King Gent the chief centre
of the Illyrian state. During the XIV century became the main centre of
the princedom of Bushatllinj. In 1396 it was conquered by Venedik.
During its long history the city has played a very important role in
Albanian culture and history.
Today the city and the area around it is blessed with numerous and
different natural and cultural objects. The city retains its
characteristic appearance with narrow streets with tall stone walls on
both sides and tall gates. The most attractive quarters with such
peculiarities are Serresh and Gijadol, but the most important objects
is the castle of Rozafa. The castle is located in the western part of
the city, between Drini and Buna Rivers.
The history of the castle starts since the Illyrian times. A very
interesting legend explains its history. The main theme of the legend
has to do with keeping of promise. Rozafa the bride of the youngest of
three brothers, was walled up in order that the walls of the castle do
not fall down by the night. The water passing through the stones at the
main entrance are connected in the folk fantasy with the water going
out from the bossom of Rozafa, which she left out during the time she
was walled up in order to feed her little baby.
Another interesting historical site are the ruins of medieval town of
Sarda, situated only 15 km far away from Shkodra. To go there you must
take a motor-boat which sails from the dam of Vau i Dejes artificial
lake to the island where Sarda is located (10 miles). This boat
operates for tourists during the summer times, twice per week. Sarda
was a mediaval town with a surface of 5 ha built on the top of the hill
surrounded by the waters of Drini river (now artificial lake). It was
the residential place of the famous Dukagjini Feudal Family. There was
a great prince palace of this family.
Another interesting historical site are the ruins of medieval town of
Sarda, situated only 15 km far away from Shkodra. To go there you must
take a motor-boat which sails from the dam of Vau i Dejes artificial
lake to the island where Sarda is located (10 miles). This boat
operates for tourists during the summer times, twice per week. Sarda
was a mediaval town with a surface of 5 ha built on the top of the hill
surrounded by the waters of Drini river (now artificial lake). It was
the residential place of the famous Dukagjini Feudal Family. There was
a great prince palace of this family. 
