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Ruins of the Red Mosque: A Glimpse into Berat's Ottoman Past

Explore the Red Mosque ruins in Berat Castle, a window into Albania's Ottoman past and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

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The Red Mosque, located within the historic Berat Castle, stands as a ruined testament to the Ottoman influence in Albania. Built in the 15th century, it's one of the oldest mosques in the country, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the region's diverse religious history and stunning views of Berat and the surrounding landscape.

A brief summary to Ruins of the Red Mosque

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for the uphill walk to Berat Castle, where the Red Mosque is located.
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photos and fewer crowds.
  • Combine your visit with a tour of Berat Castle to explore more of the area's rich history.
  • Bring water, especially during the summer months, as it can get hot walking around the castle.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Berat, make your way towards Berat Castle. The walk is a steep, uphill climb that takes about 15-20 minutes. Follow Rruga Mihal Komnena, the main road leading to the castle entrance. Once inside the castle grounds, follow the path to the right. The ruins of the Red Mosque will be on your right, near the southern walls of the castle.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Berat, particularly in Iljaz Vrioni Square. A taxi ride from the city center to the entrance of Berat Castle typically costs around 300-500 Lek. From the castle entrance, follow the walking directions to reach the Red Mosque ruins.

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Discover more about Ruins of the Red Mosque

The Red Mosque, or Xhamia e Kuqe, is a ruined mosque located within the walls of Berat Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Constructed in the 15th century, likely after the Ottoman conquest of Berat in 1417, it is believed to be one of the oldest mosques in Albania. According to the Ottoman explorer Evliya Çelebi, it was built during the reign of Bayazid II. The mosque served not only the residents of the castle but also the Ottoman army and caravans crossing the region. Built with distinctive red bricks and limestone, the mosque's minaret is located unusually to the left of the entrance. The cylindrical structure at its top is unique in Islamic architecture. A small circular staircase inside the minaret once provided access to the top, offering a 360-degree view of the castle and the city below. The mosque's basic dimensions were approximately 9.9 by 9.1 meters, and it originally had a wooden roof. Though now in ruins, with only the minaret and some foundation walls remaining, the Red Mosque is a fascinating site to explore, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and a tangible connection to Berat's rich cultural heritage. The Red Mosque was declared a Cultural Monument of Albania in 1961. Today, visitors can explore the ruins and imagine the mosque's former grandeur while enjoying the panoramic views of Berat and the Osumi River valley. The Red Mosque stands as a reminder of Berat's diverse religious history and the blending of cultures that have shaped the city over centuries.

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