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Halveti Tekke: A Spiritual Oasis in Berat

Discover the serene beauty of Halveti Tekke in Berat, a historical Islamic site rich in culture and architectural splendor.

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The Halveti Tekke, dating back to 1782, is a significant cultural monument in Berat, Albania. This Sufi lodge, belonging to the Khalwati order, showcases stunning Islamic architecture and offers a serene glimpse into the region's spiritual heritage.

A brief summary to Halveti Tekke, Berat

  • PX42+CW5 Teqeja e Helvetive, Berat, AL

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for a peaceful experience and optimal lighting for photos.
  • Dress modestly to respect the religious significance of the site.
  • Take your time exploring the gardens and surroundings for a complete experience.
  • Look carefully in the wall of this building; you will notice some small holes that serve for the acoustics of the sound.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Berat, the Halveti Tekke is easily accessible on foot. Head towards Rruga Mihal Komneno, then continue onto Rruga Vangjel Zako. Follow the signs for Halveti Tekke. The walk should take approximately 20 minutes, offering scenic views of Berat along the way. There are no costs associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Halveti Tekke by public transport, take a local bus from the Berat Bus Terminal towards the Berat Castle area. Get off at the bus stop near the castle and walk towards Halveti Tekke, heading northwest on Rruga Vangjel Zako. Follow the signs; it's about a 15-minute walk from the bus stop. A single bus fare within the city costs approximately 30 LEK.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Berat. A short taxi ride from the city center to Halveti Tekke will typically cost around 500 LEK. Taxis can be found at the taxi stand in 'Iljaz Vrioni' square. You can also use ride-hailing apps.

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Discover more about Halveti Tekke, Berat

The Halveti Tekke (Teqeja e Helvetive) stands as one of Albania's most exquisite examples of Islamic architecture, nestled in the heart of Berat. Constructed in 1782 by Ahmet Kurt Pasha, this tekke (Sufi lodge) was dedicated to the Khalwati order, a mystical branch of Islam. The tekke is more than 400 years old and represents one of the best achievements of architecture in the city of Berat. The tekke's structure comprises a prayer hall with a square layout, a modest space for specialized religious ceremonies, and an elegant portico that graces the prayer hall's entrance. Inside, a wooden-carved and adorned mafil (gallery) adds to the interior's splendor. The mihrab (a niche in the wall that indicates the direction of Mecca) on the prayer hall's eastern side is embellished with stone stalactites. The building is almost square, with each side about twelve meters long, and consists of a rectangular main room (sama'hane), a rectangular türbe (tomb), and a vestibule. The tekke's interior walls boast eight frescoes depicting dwelling houses, Muslim religious buildings, and landscapes. The walls below the frescoes are covered with holes that improve the acoustics in the prayer hall. The ceiling, crafted from wood, showcases Baroque-style decorations adopted in Islamic art and is overlaid with 14-carat gold plates. Master Dush Barka executed these inner embellishments. A room once served as the mausoleum for Ahmet Kurt Pasha and his son. The portico features five stone columns sourced from the ancient Greek city of Apollonia. An inscription above the main door in the portico pays homage to the tekke's values and to Ahmet Kurt Pasha. Residences for Dervishes, which were rebuilt in the 19th century, are preserved on the building's southern side. The upper part of the minaret has been reconstructed in recent years, while its base was built with the clausonage technique, and is one of the architectural elements that belong to the first construction of the mosque in the 15th century. Visiting the Halveti Tekke offers a serene experience, allowing one to appreciate the intricate carvings, vibrant frescoes, and peaceful atmosphere. It's a place where Sufi mysticism and cultural traditions converge, providing a unique glimpse into the spiritual practices of the region.

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