St. Mary's Monastery: A Byzantine Jewel on Zvërnec Island
Discover a serene Byzantine monastery on a tranquil island in Albania's Narta Lagoon, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Located on Zvërnec Island in Albania's Narta Lagoon, St. Mary's Monastery is a Byzantine monument dating back to the 13th-14th centuries, though some believe it may have been built as early as the 11th century. Accessible via a scenic wooden bridge, the monastery offers a serene escape with historical depth and architectural beauty.
A brief summary to St. Mary's Monastery
- GC82+XX3, Zvërnec, AL
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
- Wear comfortable shoes for the walk across the wooden bridge and exploring the island.
- Bring water and snacks, as there are limited services available on the island.
- Dress modestly when visiting the monastery, as it is a religious site.
- Check the monastery's opening hours, as they may vary depending on the season.
Getting There
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Walking
From the parking area near the footbridge, it's a short walk across the 270-meter wooden bridge to reach Zvërnec Island and the monastery. The bridge is the only way to access the island. The walk is flat and offers scenic views of the Narta Lagoon.
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Public Transport
From Vlorë, take a local bus heading towards Saranda and ask the driver to drop you off at the Zvërnec Monastery stop. The bus fare is approximately 100 Albanian Lek (about 1 USD). From the bus stop, it's about a 1 km walk to the shore where the wooden bridge to the island is located. Check locally for the latest bus schedules.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Vlorë. A one-way taxi trip to the monastery costs approximately 1500-2000 Albanian Lek and takes about 20 minutes. The taxi will drop you off near the footbridge to Zvërnec Island.
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Car
From Vlorë city center, head northwest on SH8 towards the village of Zvërnec. Follow the signs directing you to the monastery. The journey typically takes around 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. There is a parking area near the footbridge to Zvërnec Island. Parking is free.
Discover more about St. Mary's Monastery
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