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Ura e Goricës: Berat's Iconic Ottoman Bridge

Cross the iconic Ura e Goricës in Berat, Albania, for stunning views and a journey through Ottoman history and architectural brilliance.

Ura e Goricës, or Gorica Bridge, is a stunning 18th-century Ottoman stone bridge in Berat, Albania, connecting the historic Mangalem and Gorica neighborhoods. Featuring elegant arches that span the Osum River, it provides breathtaking views of the city and surrounding hills, making it a must-see landmark.

A brief summary to Ura e Goricës

  • Berat, AL

Local tips

  • Visit during sunset for stunning views and the best lighting for photographs.
  • Explore the nearby old town of Berat for a full day of cultural immersion.
  • Bring comfortable walking shoes as the area has cobblestone paths.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Berat city center, Ura e Goricës is easily accessible on foot. Head east towards the Osum River. The bridge is a prominent landmark and is approximately a 10-15 minute walk from the main square. There are no costs associated with walking to the bridge.

  • Public Transport

    Local buses in Berat can take you closer to Ura e Goricës. From the Berat Bus Terminal, take a bus that goes to the eastern part of the city. The bus crosses the main road and stops near the bridge. A single fare on the local bus is approximately 30 Lek.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Berat. A short taxi ride from the city center to Ura e Goricës will cost approximately 200-300 Lek. Taxis can be found at the taxi stand in 'Iljaz Vrioni' square.

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Discover more about Ura e Goricës

Ura e Goricës, also known as the Gorica Bridge, stands as a testament to Berat's rich history and architectural ingenuity. This elegant stone bridge, built in the 18th century during the Ottoman era, connects the city center with the Gorica neighborhood, offering picturesque views of Berat, often called the 'City of a Thousand Windows'. Originally constructed of wood in 1780, the bridge was rebuilt with stone during the reign of Ahmet Kurt Pasha. Spanning 129 meters in length and 5.3 meters in width, the bridge features seven arches that gracefully cross the Osum River. These arches, ranging from 9 to 16.7 meters, contribute to the bridge's unique and captivating design. The bridge rises approximately 10 meters above the average water level, showcasing the craftsmanship of its builders and their adaptation to the natural environment. Throughout its history, Ura e Goricës has undergone several reconstructions, including a significant restoration between 1920 and 1930 after sustaining damage during World War I. In 2014, the bridge underwent another reconstruction to ensure its preservation. Today, it stands as a pedestrian bridge, having been closed to vehicular traffic in 2011 to prevent further damage. Visiting Ura e Goricës offers more than just a chance to admire a beautiful structure; it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and history. The surrounding area is filled with quaint cafes, local artisans, and historic Ottoman-era houses. The bridge also serves as a gateway to exploring other attractions, such as the Berat Castle, which offers panoramic views of the region. Timing your visit for sunset provides the best lighting for photographs, as the golden hues reflect off the river, creating a magical ambiance.

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