The Bashtovë Fortress was built between the years 1456 and 1478 by the Venetians in great haste. The Datin into the 15th century is heavily debated, because of similarities to other fortresses in e.g. Elbasan, some researchers suggest a construction during the Justinian Dynasty. Many Byzantine spolia were used during the construction. The Fortress lies far away of towns. Its purpose was probably to secure the Shkumbin river or a nearby market place.