Sunday, December 18, 2011

From the Canoe races that was developed from Sarda NGO.

Another wonderful daytrip from Shkodra is to the ruins of medieval Sarda, 35km east of Shkodra on the Koman road. Situated just behind the massive Vau i Dejes hydropower dam (a sight in itself), the ancient town is now on an island in the artificial lake. Once strategically guarding the Shkodra-Kosovo road, leading up the valley to Prizren, Sarda was founded in the 6th-8th century BC, and foundations of a Roman fort have been discovered here. Now you can visit the ruins of the 11th century medieval castle, which includes two rings of defensive walls and towers (some sadly submerged in the lake), the remains of a Byzantine church and other early medieval walls. The setting on the steep rocks rising from the lake is especially impressive.
To get there by bus, take a furgon from the crossing of Rruga Skenderbeg and Rruga Marin Barleti to Ragam (regular daily departures from 07:00-15:00, 100 lek, 30 minutes, return trips from 08:00-16:00). At Ragam, a boat will take you across the lake to Sarda island for 200 lek, taking 10 minutes. Groups of 25 people and more can book a guided trip which includes visits to Ragam, Sarda, the Shpella e Pellumbave cave and the viewpoint at Steme for 500 lek per peson (1500 lek including lunch) via the Sarda Association; contact Mr. Artef Lekaj  tel +355672817765 e-mail sarda_art@hotmail.com

www.arteflekaj-sarda.blogspot.com