In Gjirokastra, Albania, the distinctive style of architecture in the historic old town dates to the Ottomans, who ruled from the 15th -19th centuries. Here the large three- to four- story stone houses also have stone roofs, giving the town its nickname – City of Stone.

Along with its architectural beauty, the city is surrounded by natural beauty with the Drino river valley below and towering hills across the valley. The setting is an excellent backdrop for a city influenced by a harmonious blend of Byzantine, Ottoman and Albanian heritage.

The old town is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list, which makes it even more distressing to see many of its historic buildings threatened by deterioration and collapse. Adventures in Preservation is joining the effort to Keep Tower Houses From Tumbling, offering a volunteer vacation in the fabled city of Gjirokastra from September 12-25, 2010. Our workshop gives you the opportunity to travel to this remarkable location, visit the 17th century bazaar and other historic sites, and give a hand to historic preservation efforts working hard to save the city’s heritage.