Berat Castle

Berat Castle (Kalaja e Baratit) is a remarkable fortress in Berat that traces its roots back to the 4th century BC. Perched on a hill overlooking the Osum River, the castle showcases a captivating blend of Byzantine and Ottoman architectural styles. The well-preserved mediaeval walls, cobblestone streets, and historic buildings make it one of the most popular tourist destinations in Albania.

Similar to other Albanian castles, Berat Castle is still inhabited, giving it a lively and genuine atmosphere as residents hang out next to churches, do their laundry there, and let their kids run around and play. The castle is home to several hundred people, therefore the castle is open also overnight.

Out of the original 42 churches on the castle grounds, only eight have survived. The most beautiful is the three-aisled Basilica of the Dormition of St. Mary (Kisha e Fjetjes së Shënmarisë), which was built in 1797 on the foundations of a church from the 10th century. Today, it houses the National Iconographic Museum of Onufri (Muzeu Kombëtar Ikonografik Onufri, summer 9-13h and 16-19h every day except Mondays, off-season 9-16h every day except Mondays, on Sundays 9-14h).

Onufri was the most famous Albanian painter of Orthodox icons who worked throughout the Balkans in the 16th century. He created his most famous works in Berat. His hallmark is the deep red colour that dominates most of the icons he painted.

From the watchtower at the southernmost point of the castle, you can see the Mangalem and Goricë neighbourhoods deep in the valley asi in the palm of your hand. You can also see the 13th-century St. Michael’s Church (Kisha e Shën Mëhillit) crouching beneath the cliff.

The oldest Christian shrine in the castle is the one dedicated to the St. Mary Blachernae (Kisha e Shën Mari Vllaherna). It is said to have been built in 1281 to celebrate the victory over the Angevins, who unsuccessfully besieged Berat. In the 16th century, the church was rebuilt and decorated with frescoes by Onufri’s son Nikolla. Also from the 13th century is the church of the Holy Trinity (Kisha e Shën Triadhës), which became a symbol of Berat due to its photogenic nature.

Additionally, the White (Xhamia e Bardhë) and Red (Xhamia e Kuqe) mosques’ remnants can be found within the castle. All that’s left are the minarets and the exterior walls.

The easiest access to the castle is the steeply ascending cobbled Mihal Komena Street. You can also drive through it by car, which can be parked right behind the north castle gate which dates back to 1204. The castle also has three small entrances for pedestrians, on the eastern, southern and western sides.

TIP: The best place to stay in Berat is the cozy guesthouse Iljesa, located by the eastern walls of the castle. From the terrace, you’ll have stunning views of Mount Tomorr and the old town down in the valley.

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