Berat Castle

"Berat Castle, the pride of Berat, offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding valley from its courtyard, welcoming visitors with the warm hospitality of its inhabitants. This impressive fortress, built atop a hill in the 4th century B.C., stands as a testament to the city’s rich history and elegance. Enclosed by robust stone walls and featuring twenty-four watchtowers, Berat Castle is one of the most beautiful castles in Albania, if not the most beautiful of them all. Its ancient name, Antipatrea, dates back to 216 B.C. The panoramic view from its fortified courtyard allows one to see the entire city of Berat, the Osum River, and the historic Gorica Bridge, making it a must-see for anyone visiting the area. The grand entrance, a large gate constructed on towering rocks, leaves a lasting impression on all who enter, evoking a sense of awe as they approach the fortress. What sets this castle apart from other ancient fortresses is that life within its walls continues to thrive today. The castle is home to a community that leads a lifestyle both secluded and privileged due to its elevated position. Inside, visitors discover a vibrant world filled with houses, bars, restaurants, churches, bazaars, museums, and monuments, all surrounded by lush landscapes that enhance the castle’s enchanting atmosphere. For residents, the view of the river and the city is commonplace, while for visitors, it is nothing short of breathtaking. The locals, often seen on their doorsteps, are the most fascinating characters in this castle neighborhood and serve as the best unofficial historians, sharing tales about the castle’s rich past and the remaining churches. Of the original thirty-five churches built since the 15th century, only ten have survived. Among them, St. Todri’s Church stands out with its exquisite frescoes created by Onufri, Albania’s most renowned religious painter. The church of St. Mary of Vllaherna, the oldest in the castle, offers insight into the fortress’s historical significance. The “Dormition of Saint Mary” Cathedral (Katedralja “Fjetja e Shën Marisë”), which remains active today and houses the Museum of Medieval Art, is particularly striking. Constructed in the late 18th century, it features beautiful frescoes and intricate artwork, even on the floors. Inside, the Iconographic Museum of Onufri showcases a comprehensive collection of the artist’s works, allowing visitors to appreciate his vibrant colors up close. Additionally, fans of Byzantine architecture will want to visit the Churches of St. Trinity (Kisha e Shën Triadhës) and St. Michael (Kisha e Shën Mëhillit), both perched on cliff edges. A surprising highlight during a stroll through the ruins of Berat Castle is the impressive bust of Constantine the Great. This sculpture honors Flav Valer Constantine, the Roman emperor of Illyrian descent who was later canonized by the Catholic Church. As the founder of Constantinople, the capital of the Byzantine Empire, and the first Christian emperor, Constantine is a significant historical figure, as evidenced by the grandeur of his bust."

"The main attraction of the city. Everybody goes there. The entrance and the tour, all are free. It's not just a Castle, but the entire area with towers, old churches and a viewpoint over the area. It's super beautiful and you can easily spend 2-3 hours and just admire the place. "

"It's interesting walking around the ruins of the castle and imagining how life used to be back when this place was flourishing. To reach the top you have to hike a bit, so make sure to bring water with you."