Berat – The City of a Thousand Windows: A Guide to Landmarks, Attractions, and Must-See Places
Berat, one of the oldest and most picturesque cities in Albania, is famously known as “The City of a Thousand Windows.” Located in the central part of the country, at the foot of the mountains and along the Osum River, Berat captivates visitors with its architecture, history, and charming atmosphere. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the city is a gem of Albanian Ottoman architecture, with white houses clinging to the hills and a multitude of churches and mosques that reflect its multicultural heritage.
Location of Berat
Berat is situated in the southern part of central Albania, about 120 km southeast of the capital, Tirana. The city lies along the Osum River, which adds to its charm, especially with the picturesque white houses rising on the hills. Berat is surrounded by the Tomorr Mountains, making its landscape even more impressive.
The city has played an important role in Albania’s history as both a cultural center and a strategic fortress. Today, it attracts tourists from all over the world, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Landmarks in Berat
Berat is a city with a rich history dating back to ancient times. Known for its Ottoman architecture, historic churches, and mosques, it offers plenty to explore.
1. Berat Castle (Kalaja e Beratit)
The Berat Castle is one of the city’s most significant and impressive landmarks. Perched on a hill overlooking the city, the castle has existed since the 4th century BC and became a powerful fortress in the Middle Ages. Remarkably, the castle is still inhabited, making it unique on a global scale. Walking along the castle walls, you can enjoy stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains. Inside the castle, there are numerous historic churches, including the Cathedral of St. Nicholas, which holds treasures of Albanian sacred art.
2. Onufri Museum
The Onufri Museum, located in the former Cathedral of St. Mary within the castle, is dedicated to Onufri, one of Albania’s most important icon painters from the 16th century. The museum showcases a rich collection of icons, sacred works, and sculptures from various periods. Onufri was known for his exceptional painting technique and for introducing vibrant colors into Albanian iconography.
3. Mangalem and Gorica Neighborhoods
Mangalem is a historic district located on the hillside, where the iconic white houses with large windows rise, giving the city its nickname “The City of a Thousand Windows.” The district was historically inhabited by Muslims, while across the Osum River lies Gorica, once home to the Christian community. The two districts are connected by the Gorica Bridge, a historic landmark worth visiting. Walking through the narrow streets of these neighborhoods allows you to experience the atmosphere of bygone times.
4. Ethnographic Museum
The Ethnographic Museum in Berat is housed in a traditional Ottoman home from the 18th century. It presents the daily life of Berat’s residents during the Ottoman era, with a rich collection of items such as costumes, furniture, tools, and handicrafts. This museum is a great place to learn about the culture and history of the region.
5. The Royal Mosque and Mosque Ensemble
The Royal Mosque (Xhamia e Mbretit), built in the 15th century, is one of the oldest mosques in Albania and a striking example of Ottoman religious architecture. Be sure to also visit the White Dome Mosque (Xhamia e Plumbit) and the Lead Mosque, which are equally beautiful examples of Islamic sacred architecture.
Top Attractions in Berat
Beyond its historical landmarks, Berat offers many other attractions to discover while strolling through this picturesque city.
1. Gorica Bridge
The Gorica Bridge is a stone bridge from the 18th century that connects the Mangalem and Gorica districts. It is one of the most beautiful historical bridges in Albania and a perfect spot for a walk and photography. The bridge serves as an important symbol of unity between the Muslim and Christian communities that once lived on opposite sides of the river.
2. The Osum River and Osum Canyon
The Osum River, flowing through Berat, adds charm to the city, especially in spring when its waters are most vibrant. Not far from Berat is the Osum Canyon, one of the most beautiful natural sites in Albania. The canyon offers opportunities for kayaking, and its high walls and numerous waterfalls make it a unique place to explore.
3. Mount Tomorr
Mount Tomorr, located near Berat, is a sacred mountain for the local population, both Muslims and Christians. In August, a pilgrimage is held here in honor of Saint Abaz Ali, making it a culturally and religiously significant site. Tomorr is also an excellent spot for hiking, offering stunning views of Berat and the surrounding areas.
4. Berat Market
A walk through the Berat Market is a great opportunity to discover local products and crafts. You can buy traditional items like carpets, ceramics, jewelry, and fresh produce, including fruits, vegetables, and honey. The market is where you can feel the authentic spirit of the city and its people.
Culinary Attractions in Berat
Berat is a great place to taste traditional Albanian dishes. The city offers many restaurants serving regional specialties such as:
• Byrek – A traditional pastry with various fillings, most commonly cheese or meat.
• Tave Kosi – Albania’s national dish, a lamb and yogurt casserole.
• Baklava – A sweet pastry with nuts, popular throughout the Balkans.
Restaurants in Berat often also offer local wines, as the region is known for its wine production, particularly varieties such as Shesh i Bardhë and Shesh i Zi.
Berat is a city with a unique atmosphere, full of landmarks, picturesque views, and amazing places to explore. Its rich history, beautiful architecture, and stunning location along the Osum River make it one of the most beautiful places in Albania.