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