About Us

Our Story

Welcome to Castel Boutique Hotel, an intimate sanctuary nestled within the ancient stone walls of Toptani Castle in the heart of Tirana. Our eight uniquely designed rooms, adorned with classic wood furnishings, offer a rare blend of historic grandeur and modern comfort. Here, the whispers of centuries past meet the warmth of personalized hospitality, creating an unforgettable retreat in one of Albania’s most storied landmarks.

The Legacy of Toptani Castle

Toptani Castle, a formidable fortress with a rectangular footprint spanning 160×200 meters, stands as a testament to Tirana’s rich history. Believed to have been constructed during the Early Byzantine Period (4th-6th century AD), possibly under Emperor Justinian, the castle was part of the fortifications protecting New Epirus in the Durrës Province. Its robust towers and bailey, partially preserved today, hint at its ancient origins.

In the late 18th century, the castle was revitalized by Ahmet Pasha Bargjini, who rebuilt sections of the walls between 1788 and 1809. In 1798, the influential Toptani family, a noble lineage from Kruja with ties to both the Ottoman Empire and the West, claimed the castle. Known for their wealth, education, and pivotal role in Albania’s journey to independence, the Toptanis left an indelible mark on the region. Their rivalry with the Bargjini family, allied with the Bushatllinjs of Shkodra, led to a dramatic five-month siege in 1817, which tested the castle and the city. To foster peace, the Toptanis forged alliances through marriage with Bargjini daughters and began restoring the fortress.

However, in 1832, Ottoman forces under Mehmet Reshit Pasha demolished many Albanian castles, including parts of Toptani Castle. Despite this, fragments of the northern bailey and southern walls endure, seamlessly woven into Tirana’s modern landscape. The castle’s storied past continued into the 20th century under the stewardship of Sadet Toptani, who inherited the estate in 1893, and her husband Zija Jusuf Toptani, a prominent deputy and senator who represented Durrës and Tirana in Albania’s early parliamentary years.

Our Vision

At Castel Boutique Hotel, we breathe new life into Toptani Castle’s legacy. Painstakingly restored to preserve its ancient stone walls and rustic charm, our hotel celebrates the castle’s history while offering a boutique experience tailored to modern travelers. Each room reflects the spirit of the Toptani family’s elegance and Albania’s cultural heritage, with handcrafted wood furnishings and thoughtful design inspired by the castle’s storied past.

A Commitment to Heritage and Hospitality

We are more than a hotel—we are guardians of a living history. Located in the vibrant Sulejman Pasha neighborhood, Castel Boutique Hotel invites guests of all ages and nationalities to explore the castle’s enduring beauty. Our small size allows us to offer personalized service, ensuring every stay feels like a journey through time. From the moment you step through our doors, you become part of the castle’s ongoing story.

Discover Tirana from the Heart of History

Situated in the center of Albania’s dynamic capital, our hotel places you steps away from Tirana’s cultural treasures, from Skanderbeg Square to the National Museum. Whether you’re here to uncover the city’s past or embrace its vibrant present, Castel Boutique Hotel is your gateway to an authentic Albanian experience.

Join us at Castel Boutique Hotel, where the legacy of Toptani Castle meets the warmth of home, and every stay is a chapter in a timeless tale.