Dominating the skyline of Përmet is a massive, striking geological formation known as Guri i Qytetit, or "The City Stone." Standing at 42 meters tall right along the banks of the Vjosa River, it is the undisputed symbol of the city and a must-visit attraction for anyone traveling to southern Albania.
A Geological Marvel
Geologists believe that Guri i Qytetit broke away from the nearby Trebeshina mountain range thousands of years ago, tumbling down and lodging itself perfectly in the river valley. Today, it stands as a solitary monolith in the center of town. Covering an area of roughly 650 square meters, this massive limestone rock has watched over Përmet for millennia, serving as both a natural fortification and a spiritual centerpiece for the locals.
The Legend of Premt
You cannot talk about the City Stone without mentioning the famous legend that gave the town its name. According to local folklore, during the 15th century, the town was ruled by a noble leader named Premt. When the powerful Ottoman Empire invaded the region, the town was besieged.
Refusing to surrender to the invading forces, Premt made a heroic and tragic decision. Rather than be captured, he threw himself from the top of the City Stone. In honor of his bravery and ultimate sacrifice, the town was named Përmet in his memory. Today, the stone stands as a monument to that historic resilience.
Climbing to the Top
While the sheer cliff faces of the rock look intimidating from the town square, reaching the top is actually a very accessible experience. A series of carved stone steps wind safely up the back of the rock, allowing visitors of moderate fitness to reach the summit in under 10 minutes.
At the top, you will discover the ancient ruins of a small fortification and, more importantly, a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view. From this vantage point, you can look down over the red-tiled roofs of the "City of Roses," gaze out at the winding turquoise waters of the wild Vjosa River, and admire the towering peaks of the Dhëmbel mountains. It is undoubtedly the best photo spot in the city.