On this free tour of Berat Castle, we'll explore one of Albania's historical gems. Learn all about past civilisations by wandering around the castle's impressive walls, churches, and cobbled streets.
Free Tour Details
At the designated time, we'll meet in front of the Antonio Gramsci monument to begin this free tour that will take 1 hour and 20 minutes. By admiring this building's looming walls, you'll get to peel back the layers of history of the civilisations that have passed through the city of a thousand windows. Ready to travel back in time?
Inside the castle, we'll find the historical Kala neighbourhood. As we walk through its streets, we'll learn about the life of its inhabitants, as well as its social, cultural, and economic status. Afterwards, we'll pause in front of the following 3 churches: St. Nicholas, St. Mary of Blachernae, and St Constantine and Helen. These are part of the 22 religious sites that once existed within the fortress.
We'll venture into the Church of St. Mary of Blacharnae, which was built in the 6th century and reconstructed in the 13th century, and admire the 16th-century Byzantine frescos currently housed inside. We'll then make our way to the Church of St. Nicholas, a few metres away. Here, we'll find one of the oldest architectural elements in the city repurposed as an altar.
An ancient path will lead us to the Acropolis, the tallest point in the castle, where you'll get to see the 3 outlines of walls that once protected the fortress. Get ready to enjoy spectacular views of the ruins of the White Mosque and Mount Shpirag shaping the landscape! Descending from the Acropolis, we'll explore the mysterious Red Mosque, whose construction date continues to be an enigma, as well as the Monastery of St. George, which offers fabulous scenic views of the south of Berat and the hills that lead to Mount Tomorri. Unforgettable views!
After seeing the monastery, we'll reach the Tower of Tabaya, a viewpoint that features the best views of the city. You'll feel like you're floating in the air above the Gorica neighbourhood and the modern part of Berat.
Lastly, we'll return to our initial meeting point, 1 hour and 20 minutes later, in the eastern part of the castle, where you'll get to admire the facade of historical houses and traditional shops.