Petrela Castle was built during the 5th-6th centuries AD, i.e. Late Antiquity, during the empire of Justinian I (527-565 AD). During the Byzantine period, fortifications and wall additions were made to increase its security. During the 13th-14th centuries, the castle became the residence of the Topiaj family. They were an important Albanian feudal family, princes of Arberia. During the wars between Skanderbeg and the Ottomans, Petrela was an important center as Mamica, Skanderbeg's sister, married into the Topia family, was settled in this castle. During this time, the entrance to the castle was also rebuilt, joining the existing one. Petrela became an urban center starting from the 13th century to the present day. Just a few minutes away from this castle, we also find the ancient settlement of Persqop, an Illyrian city, built in the 4th century BC.