Kaninë Castle was built in the village with the same name which is located about 6 kilometres (4 mi) from Vlorë.

The castle rises on the side of the Shushicë Mountain, about 380 metres (1,250 ft) above sea level.

It was built on the site of an ancient settlement, one of the oldest in the Vlora region.

In the 4th century A.D. the castle was transformed into a fortress town.

The castle was the center of the Principality of Valona in the 14th century.