Poliçan is a historical city located in Elbasan, Albania. It is divided into the Castle, or Kala, of Poliçan and the town sections in the valley beneath the Castle.
The Poliçan castle, a symbol of medieval Albania, stands on the peak of a large hill and dominates the whole area around it. Its thick stone walls and towers date centuries ago, surrounded by a deep moat.
Poliçan is an important industrial center home to textile industries and paper mills. Its traditional hand-crafted fabrics, such as carpets, bags, and clothes, are highly sought after throughout Albania.
The Sabri Abazi Library, the largest library in the city, houses a wide collection of books, journals, and manuscripts.
Poliçan is the birthplace of celebrated Albanian National Hero Skanderbeg, celebrated with a grand military parade yearly.
The city is known for its many thermal springs, which are believed to have healing qualities. During the summer, the springs attract visitors from all around the Balkans.
Poliçan holds an annual music festival in the city park, where musicians from across Albania perform.
The city's museum, housed in a building dating back to 1789, showcases artifacts from centuries of local culture and history.
The ruins of the castle walls and towers of Poliçan mark the path of the Tirana–Elbasan Railroad, the first railway in Albania.
Poliçan is home to many ancient churches and mosques, such as the Church of Saint John, built in the eleventh century.
The city's most impressive monument is the five-story Art Palace, built in the French style in 1920. It is now used as a venue for cultural events.
