The mysterious island of Maligrad (Ishulli i Maligradit) is the biggest attraction of the Albanian part of Prespa Lake. Beneath its cliff, a charming pilgrimage church from the 14th century is located. The only way to get to the island is by boat from Pustec.
The uninhabited island is about 300 metres long and consists of a circular rock formation with many caverns strewn throughout. You can only climb to the top of the cliff from the west. There are a few little beaches along the shore where you can go swimming in the summer.
In one of the rock overhangs, the Church of the Virgin Mary (Kisha e Shën Marisë) is situated. The building, which dates to 1369, is adorned with frescoes and Greek inscriptions. It was built by the Serbian nobleman Kesar Novak, who declared himself ruler of the Prespa region in the second half of the 14th century. But the history of the island’s settlement goes much deeper: Archaeologists have found the remains of an early Christian church that stood on top of the cliff. A large part of visitors are Albanian Christians who come here to visit the pilgrimage site.
From the top of Maligrad, there is a breathtaking view of all sides: you can see the other island on Prespa Lake, the Golemgrad, which is already in the North Macedonian waters. Behind it, there is the Baba Mountain (Pelister), which reaches a height of over 2,600 metres. To the west is the ridge of the Dry Mountain (Mali i Thatë) can also be seen.
You can rent a boat (20-30 euro) on the pier in the village of Pustec (Liqenas). In high season, you will probably be approached by the boat owners themselves as soon as you arrive. You can also arrange the sail at the nearby Panorama restaurant (don’t leave until you’ve tasted the local specialty – baked fish tava e peshkut) or by calling +355699621688. The trip costs 20 to 30 euros.
There are several other restaurants and guesthouses in Pustec and the nearby village of Zrnovsko (Zaroshkë).
TIP: From the boat dock, take a walk along the shore of Prespa Lake, you will have Maligrad in the palm of your hand the whole time. A beautiful spot along the way is a small cape with the beach and the newly restored St. Nicholas Chapel (Kisha e Shën Kollit). It’s about 10 km round trip, see map. A sail to the cape with a stop at Maligrad can also be arranged with the boat owners.
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