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Muzeu Kombëtar Ikonografik Onufri: A Treasure of Albanian Iconography

Discover exquisite Byzantine art and religious history at the Onufri Museum, nestled in Berat Castle, Albania. A cultural treasure!

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Housed within the 18th-century Church of the Dormition of St. Mary in Berat Castle, the Muzeu Kombëtar Ikonografik Onufri showcases a stunning collection of Byzantine and post-Byzantine icons. Named after the renowned 16th-century Albanian iconographer Onufri, the museum celebrates his unique artistic style and use of color.

A brief summary to Muzeu Kombëtar Ikonografik Onufri

  • Monday 9 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-4 pm
  • Friday 9 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the weekdays to avoid larger crowds for a more personal experience.
  • Consider joining a guided tour for deeper insights into the artworks and their historical context.
  • Allow at least 1.5 hours to fully appreciate the museum's collection.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Berat's old town (Mangalem quarter), walk uphill towards Berat Castle. The walk takes approximately 20-30 minutes, following the cobblestone path. The museum is located inside the castle, within the Church of the Dormition of St. Mary. Entrance fee to the museum is 400 Lek per person.

  • Public Transport

    From Berat Bus Terminal, take the city bus towards the city center. Get off near the Gorica Bridge and walk uphill towards the castle. The museum is located inside the castle, within the Church of the Dormition of St. Mary. Bus fare is approximately 30 Lek. Entrance fee to the museum is 400 Lek per person.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Berat, particularly in "Iljaz Vrioni" square. A taxi from the city center to Berat Castle will cost approximately 300-500 Lek. The museum is located inside the castle, within the Church of the Dormition of St. Mary. Entrance fee to the museum is 400 Lek per person.

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Discover more about Muzeu Kombëtar Ikonografik Onufri

The Muzeu Kombëtar Ikonografik Onufri, inaugurated on February 27, 1986, is one of Albania's most visited and important museums. It is located within the Church of the Dormition of St. Mary in Berat Castle, a cathedral rebuilt in 1797. The museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing Albanian Byzantine art and iconography. The museum's collection comprises 173 carefully selected objects from churches and monasteries in the Berat region, dating from the 14th to the early 20th centuries. Primarily composed of icons and liturgical objects, the works highlight the craftsmanship of Albanian iconographers such as Onufri, his son Nikola, Onufër Qiprioti, David Selenica, and Kostandin Shpataraku. Onufri's icons are particularly noted for their vibrant colors and intricate designs, reflecting a blend of Byzantine and Venetian influences. Legend says that Onufri's innovative use of a secret crimson pigment has yet to be replicated. The museum complex includes the church's central hall, the altar area, and auxiliary spaces. The cathedral's wood carvings, crafted by master Stefan Barka and master Naum Ngjela in the early 19th century, are considered some of the finest works by Albanian woodcarvers, reflecting baroque influences. The museum also holds two significant codices discovered in 1968: the 6th-century Codex Purpureus Beratinus and the 9th-century Codex Aureus Anthimi, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage landmarks.

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