Ali Pasha’s Bridge is one of the most impressive historical monuments in Gjirokastër, showcasing the engineering and architectural skills of the Ottoman period. It was built in the early 19th century by order of Ali Pasha of Tepelena as part of an aqueduct that brought water from the springs of Sopot village to the Gjirokastër Castle.
Built entirely from limestone, the bridge features a large central arch and several smaller ones, giving it an elegant and harmonious form. Set in a peaceful natural environment, amid greenery and surrounding hills, it offers a stunning view and is a favorite spot for photography, walking, and exploration.
Beyond its functional value in the past, the bridge today holds great cultural and tourist significance, being considered a symbol of the connection between history, nature, and traditional Albanian craftsmanship. Visitors who seek it out during trips to Gjirokastër find not only a rare monument but also a living piece of Ali Pasha’s history and his legacy in southern Albania.