Historic Centres of Berat and Gjirokastra
Berat Guide
Date of Inscription: 2005
Selection criteria:
(III) to bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared
(iv) to be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history
Overview: Berat, located in central Albania, is a beautiful and historic city that should be on every traveler's itinerary. Known as the "city of a thousand windows," Berat's unique Ottoman architecture and picturesque scenery make it a must-visit destination.
Prominent Features:
Fun Fact: Berat is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with evidence of human settlements dating back to the 6th millennium BC. The city's strategic location on the trade routes between the Adriatic Sea and the Balkans made it an important center for trade and commerce throughout its history.
Entry Fees:
How to Reach It: Berat is about 120 kilometers from Tirana and can be reached by car in about 2 hours.
Alternatively you can reach it from it's partnered UNESCO site in Gjirokastra
Selection criteria:
(III) to bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared
(iv) to be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history
Overview: Berat, located in central Albania, is a beautiful and historic city that should be on every traveler's itinerary. Known as the "city of a thousand windows," Berat's unique Ottoman architecture and picturesque scenery make it a must-visit destination.
Prominent Features:
- Berat Castle: Located on a hilltop, the Berat Castle dates back to the 4th century BC and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The castle features a mix of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture, with churches, mosques, and museums within its walls.
- Mangalem and Gorica Neighborhoods: These two historic neighborhoods are known for their well-preserved Ottoman architecture and traditional houses, which have earned them a place on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
- Onufri Museum: The Onufri Museum, located in the Berat Castle, houses a collection of religious icons from the 16th century.
- Ethnographic Museum: The Ethnographic Museum, located in a traditional Ottoman house in the Mangalem neighborhood, displays traditional Albanian clothing, tools, and household items.
Fun Fact: Berat is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with evidence of human settlements dating back to the 6th millennium BC. The city's strategic location on the trade routes between the Adriatic Sea and the Balkans made it an important center for trade and commerce throughout its history.
Entry Fees:
- Berat Castle: 200 lekë (approx. $2) for adults, 100 lekë (approx. $1) for children
- Onufri Museum: 200 lekë (approx. $2) for adults, 100 lekë (approx. $1) for children
- Ethnographic Museum: 200 lekë (approx. $2) for adults, 100 lekë (approx. $1) for children
How to Reach It: Berat is about 120 kilometers from Tirana and can be reached by car in about 2 hours.
- Buses from Tirana to Berat depart from the "South Bus Station" (Stacioni i Autobusave Jug) located on the outskirts of the city.
- There are several bus companies that operate on this route, including Rruga e Kombit, Tomi Express, and Berat Tours.
- Buses depart regularly throughout the day, with the first bus leaving around 6:30 am and the last bus departing around 7:30 pm.
- The journey takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic, and the fare is around 400 to 500 lekë .
Alternatively you can reach it from it's partnered UNESCO site in Gjirokastra
- Buses from Gjirokastra to Berat depart from the local bus station located in the city center.
- The journey takes approximately 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and the route taken, and the fare is around 700 to 800 lekë
- There are several bus companies that operate on this route, including Rruga e Kombit, Berat Tours, and Auto Lushi.
- Berat is also accessible by bus from other cities in Albania, including Vlora, Saranda, and Shkoder.