Shkodra is one of Albania's oldest cities, an important economic and cultural center. It lies on southern part of the plain of Mbishkodra, next to the Shkodra Lake between the rivers Drin and Bun', the mountain of Tarabosh, and the Rozafa Castle. It is a cultural hot spot as well as a beautiful, natural get-a-way with narrow streets, tall stone walls and stone gates which give Shkodra its unique character.