Berat, the stone city preserved as a treasure of time
Berat enchants with its cobblestone streets, characteristic houses, and the castle that defies the centuries. A journey into the heart of Albanian history, where every stone has a story to tell.
BERAT CASTLE
Berat Castle rises atop a hill with breathtaking views over the Osum River. Built since antiquity, it has preserved traces of Illyrian, Roman, and Byzantine periods. Within its walls are old houses, churches, and ruins that tell the story of the city. Today, it remains the historical heart of Berat and one of the most beautiful fortresses in Albania.
GORICA BRIDGE
Gorica Bridge in Berat is one of the city’s most famous historical landmarks. Built over the Osum River, it connects the historic neighborhoods of Gorica and Mangalem. With its characteristic stone arch and over 200 years of history, the bridge is an example of Ottoman architecture in Albania. It offers stunning views of the river and Berat’s old houses. Today, GORICA BRIDGE is a must-visit spot for tourists exploring the museum city.
ONUFRI NATIONAL ICONOGRAPHIC MUSEUM
The Onufri Museum is located within the Berat Castle and is renowned for its rich collection of Albanian Byzantine and Orthodox icons. Named after the distinguished Albanian painter Onufri, the museum offers visitors an insight into religious art and culture from the 16th to the 19th century. The exhibits include masterfully crafted icons, liturgical objects, and rare manuscripts, making it a must-visit destination for all history and art enthusiasts.
THE OLD TOWN
The Old Town of Berat is the historic and most iconic part of the city, known as “The City of a Thousand Windows” for its Ottoman houses with numerous windows. Its narrow cobblestone streets, the Mangalem and Gorica neighborhoods, and historic buildings create a unique atmosphere where Albanian history and culture are visible at every corner. The Old Town is a major destination for tourists who wish to explore Berat’s architectural heritage and timeless charm.
The Lead Mosque
The Lead Mosque in Berat is a historic mosque built in 1773, renowned for its lead-covered dome. It represents a typical example of Ottoman architecture and is located in the Mangalem neighborhood. Visitors can admire its architectural details and experience the spiritual atmosphere of the old city.
ETHNOGRAPHIC MUSEUM
The Ethnographic Museum of Berat is located in a characteristic 18th-century house and showcases traditional Berat life through original objects, clothing, tools, and household items. It offers a clear insight into the city’s culture, customs, and architecture during the Ottoman period.
KING’S MOSQUE
The Kings's Mosque in Berat is one of the oldest mosques in Albania, built in the 15th century during the reign of Sultan Bayezid II. It stands out for its Ottoman architecture, elegant minaret, and interior decorations featuring floral and geometric motifs, making it one of the city’s most important religious and cultural monuments.
REPUBLIC BOULEVARD
Republic Boulevard is the modern heart of the city of Berat. It stretches along a beautifully landscaped, tree-lined street, surrounded by cafés, restaurants, and shops. It is the perfect place for walking, relaxing, and enjoying the serene Berat atmosphere, offering stunning views of the historic Mangalem neighborhood.
HELVETI TEKKE
The Helveti Tekke is a Bektashi tekke located near the city of Krujë, known for its spiritual serenity and historical significance. It serves as a place of prayer and meditation, preserving Bektashi traditions and rituals in a simple and welcoming environment.
PASHA’S GATE
Pasha’s Gate in Berat is one of the city’s most famous historical entrances, built during the Ottoman rule. It served as a checkpoint and defense point, and today stands as an important symbol of Berat’s architectural and historical heritage, offering beautiful views of the Old Town.