Background

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

Explore the remnants of Albania's Ottoman past at the Red Mosque ruins in Berat Castle, offering history and panoramic views.

4.1

The Red Mosque, or Xhamia e Kuqe, is a ruined mosque located within the historic Berat Castle. Built in the 15th century, it stands as one of the oldest mosques in Albania and a testament to the Ottoman influence in the region. Its distinctive red brick construction and unique minaret design make it a fascinating historical site to explore.

A brief summary to Ruins of the Red Mosque

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the path to the Red Mosque within Berat Castle involves walking on cobblestone paths and potentially steep inclines.
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photography.
  • Combine your visit with a tour of Berat Castle to explore more of the area's rich history and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Berat, make your way towards Berat Castle. The most direct route involves a steep walk up Rruga Mihal Komnena from the Mangalem Quarter. Follow the road uphill for approximately 15 minutes until you reach the main entrance of the castle. Once inside the castle grounds, follow the path to the right; the ruins of the Red Mosque will be visible on your right, marked by its distinctive minaret.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Berat and can take you to the entrance of Berat Castle. From the city center, a taxi ride to the castle entrance typically costs around 1800 ALL. From the castle entrance, follow the path to the right; the ruins of the Red Mosque will be visible on your right, marked by its distinctive minaret.

Unlock the Best of Ruins of the Red Mosque

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Ruins of the Red Mosque

The Ruins of the Red Mosque, also known as Xhamia e Kuqe, offer a captivating glimpse into Berat's rich Ottoman heritage. Situated within the walls of the ancient Berat Castle, this ruined mosque dates back to the 15th century and is believed to be one of the oldest mosques in Albania. According to Ottoman explorer Evliya Çelebi, it was constructed during the reign of Bayazid II. The mosque's name derives from the red bricks and limestone used in its construction. Its architecture stands out with a cylindrical minaret, unusually located to the left of the entrance, offering a 360° view of the castle and the city from the top via a small circular staircase. The mosque's basic dimensions were approximately 9.9 to 9.1 meters, and it originally had a wooden roof. Historically, the Red Mosque served not only as a place of worship but also as a center for caravans crossing the continent and later for the Ottoman army. Today, only the minaret base and some foundation walls remain, but the site continues to attract visitors with its historical significance and panoramic views. Exploring the ruins provides a unique opportunity to reflect on the stories and cultural influences that have shaped Berat.

Popular Experiences near Ruins of the Red Mosque

Popular Hotels near Ruins of the Red Mosque

Select Currency