Berat Castle tells stories that have been in the making for centuries

Albania is a country with a rich cultural heritage that goes back thousands of years. Thanks to its history and the mix of different civilizations that passed through this area, you can find fascinating monuments, buildings, and forts here.

One of the brightest examples of Albania’s cultural heritage is the city of Berat, which bears the title “city with a thousand windows”. Just walking through its streets gives the impression that you have stepped into the past. Every corner of this city hides a part of a rich story, and one of the most important parts of that story is Berat Castle.

Berat Castle, Photo: ibrester Depositphotos

Located on a hill above the city and overlooking the Osum River, Berat Castle is one of the most interesting fortresses in Albania. From the first set foundations dating back to the 4th century BC, when it was built by the Illyrians, the autochthonous people of the Balkans, as an important strategic point in defense against enemy attacks, until the 20th century, when residents lived within its walls, this castle is a true historical gem of the city.

Berat Castle, Photo: Jim_Filim Depositphotos

With a view that many castles can only dream of, it is certainly one of the most beautiful in all of Albania! It has changed over the centuries, and this present-day appearance was acquired during the Byzantine Empire, but also during the Ottoman Empire.

In addition to the fact that during the time of the Byzantines in the 6th century, under Emperor Justinian, the castle received one of the strongest city walls that defended it from invasions, it also received as many as 9 churches inside and two outside them. However, the biggest changes were brought by the Ottomans after they conquered Berat in the 15th century. They further fortified the castle and built a series of Ottoman houses and mosques within the walls, giving the castle a unique combination of Christian and Islamic influences.

Interestingly, residents lived inside the castle until the beginning of the 20th century, and some parts are still inhabited today, which gives this place a colorful atmosphere. Old stone roads, narrow streets, and historical buildings remind of the different eras the castle has passed through. There is also the Onufri Museum, located in the Church of St. Mary, which contains precious icons of the famous Albanian painter Onufri from the 16th century.

Today, the castle is under UNESCO protection, as is the entire historical center of Berat together with Gjirokastra. A visit to this particular castle will provide you with a unique opportunity to feel the combination of past and present, as well as the coexistence of two religions.

If you plan to visit Berat, then the castle is an unmissable place. Not only will you enjoy incredible historical stories and monuments, but you will also have the opportunity to soak up the wonderful views of the surrounding mountains and the valley of the Osum River.