Bashtova Castle

Unique as the only surviving 15thc fortification built on the western Balkans, Bashtova castle represents a much valued site. Through thoughtful and targeted rehabilitation, there exists the opportunity to engage and encourage domestic and international tourists through multiple activities and the promotion of an iconic cultural resource.

Interventions proposed and intended to be implemented for rehabilitation of Castel, regarding EU4Culture Project include different categories such as:

DESIGN

Conservation scope
– Geological underpinning
– Structural stabilization and repair
– Conservation and stabilization of walking platforms
– Controlled entry through one gate
– Guard rail design
– Urban landscaping around the site to allow for outdoor events
– Disaster risk management planning
– Maintenance program and plans

Infrastructure
– Electrical system
– Surveillance and safety system
– Visitor and interpretation center including all utilities (toilettes, cafe, souvenir/traditional produce shop)

CONSULTATIONS AND DESIGN

Revitalization scope
– Interactive interpretation of the castles history and wider area – ‘’linked heritage”
– Digital interpretation of the history of the castle available for remote viewing
– Identifying, engaging and supporting local producers and artisans for souvenirs and traditional produce shop
– Competition for universities across the country to engage the voice of the youth
– Branding and visual identity
– Prime opportunity for traditional skills / techniques training and revitalization

MANAGEMENT AND BUSINESS PLAN

Management
– Designing castle’s and a structure for managing visitors’ and functions for local engagement
– Introducing ticketing system and analysing additional streams of revenue
– Packaging and promoting the site alongside attractions of the area (Divjaka national park)
increasing retaining income for sustainable function
stimulating creation of additional income through added economic activities

GRANTS
Local socio economic component (grant schemes and practical training)
– Competition for universities of Albania for suggesting proposals of functions of the castle; proposals for branding of the castles’ promotion as a cultural heritage site; proposals for story telling and interpretation concepts