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Old Town Berat: A Window to Albania's Soul

Discover Berat's Old Town: A UNESCO-listed gem with stunning Ottoman architecture and a rich, layered history waiting to be explored.

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The Old Town of Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a captivating blend of Ottoman and Byzantine architecture, characterized by its iconic white-washed houses with a multitude of windows. Nestled in the Osum River valley, Berat offers a glimpse into Albania's rich history and cultural heritage.

A brief summary to Old Town Berat

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the Old Town features steep cobblestone streets and uneven terrain.
  • Visit the Ethnographic Museum to learn about Berat's local culture and customs.
  • Explore both the Mangalem and Gorica quarters to experience the distinct character of each.
  • Walk across the Gorica Bridge for picturesque views of the Osum River and the 'City of a Thousand Windows'.
  • Visit Berat Castle in the late afternoon to enjoy the sunset from the castle walls.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Berat (e.g., Iljaz Vrioni Square), the Old Town (Mangalem) is easily accessible on foot. Head east, crossing the New Bridge over the Osum River. Once across the bridge, turn right and follow the road as it curves gently to the left. The entrance to the Old Town will be on your right, marked by the characteristic Ottoman-era houses. The walk is relatively short, about 5-10 minutes, but involves a slight uphill climb.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving at the Berat Bus Terminal, located about 3km from the Old Town, take a green city bus towards the city center. The bus will drop you off near the New Bridge. From there, follow the walking directions to reach the Old Town. The bus fare is around 30 LEK.

  • Taxi

    From the Berat Bus Terminal or any other location in Berat, a taxi is a convenient option to reach the Old Town. Taxis are readily available in Berat, especially in 'Iljaz Vrioni' Square. A taxi ride from the bus terminal to the Old Town typically costs around 500 LEK.

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Discover more about Old Town Berat

The Old Town of Berat, also known as Mangalem, is a mesmerizing historical district that showcases the unique architectural heritage of Albania. Often called the 'City of a Thousand Windows,' Berat is distinguished by its white Ottoman-era houses that cascade down the hillsides, creating a stunning visual spectacle. These homes, dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries, feature large wooden windows that reflect the sunlight, adding to the city's charm. Berat's history stretches back over 2,400 years, with influences from the Illyrian, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires. The city, strategically located between ancient Illyria and Epirus, has been the site of numerous battles and sieges. The historic center comprises three main districts: the Castle, Mangalem, and Gorica, each offering a unique perspective on Berat's past. Mangalem, the old Muslim quarter, is a vibrant hub with narrow cobblestone streets, hidden restaurants, and cafes. Across the Osum River lies Gorica, the old Christian quarter, connected to Mangalem by the Gorica Bridge, a beautiful Ottoman-era stone bridge dating back to 1780. The Berat Castle, perched on a hilltop, provides panoramic views of the city and its surroundings, housing ancient churches, Ottoman homes, shops, and restaurants within its walls. Declared a 'museum city' during the communist era, Berat has preserved its cultural and religious diversity, with mosques, churches, and monasteries representing various faiths and traditions. The city's unique architecture and historical significance earned it a place on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2008, solidifying its importance as a cultural treasure.

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