Berat The City of a Thousand Windows
Nestled in the heart of Albania, Berat is one of the most captivating and historically rich cities in the country. Often referred to as the "City of a Thousand Windows," Berat offers a unique blend of history, culture, and architecture, standing as a testament to Albania’s multifaceted heritage. The town’s distinctive Ottoman-era houses, a well-preserved medieval castle, and its picturesque location on the banks of the Osum River make it a must-visit for travelers seeking a journey back in time.
Historical Overview
Berat has been continuously inhabited for more than two millennia, making it one of the oldest cities in Albania. Its origins date back to the 6th century BCE when it was known as *Antipatreia* under the ancient Greeks. During the Roman period, it developed as an important settlement and continued to thrive through the Byzantine and Ottoman eras.
Berat’s modern fame and charm stem largely from the legacy of its Ottoman past, which has left an indelible mark on the city’s architecture, culture, and layout. In 2008, the historic center of Berat was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognizing its exceptional preservation of Ottoman town planning and the harmonious coexistence of different religious communities over the centuries.
The City of a Thousand Windows
The moniker "City of a Thousand Windows" stems from the unique architecture of Berat’s old neighborhoods, particularly Mangalem and Gorica, which are situated on opposite sides of the Osum River. The houses in these neighborhoods feature large windows that seem to cascade down the hillside, creating the illusion that the buildings themselves are filled with countless openings to the world.
The whitewashed facades and terracotta-tiled roofs of these Ottoman-era homes stand out against the lush green hills and the blue sky, creating a picturesque scene that has been the subject of admiration and artistic inspiration for centuries. The large windows, often grouped closely together, give the impression of a city that watches over its inhabitants and visitors alike, adding a sense of mystery and grandeur to the landscape.
Mangalem The Iconic Neighborhood
Mangalem, located on the southern side of the Osum River, is perhaps the most famous of Berat’s historic neighborhoods. Originally founded as a medieval settlement, it was during the Ottoman period that the area took on its current appearance, characterized by narrow cobbled streets, stone houses, and an overall harmonious blend of architecture with nature.
The houses in Mangalem were traditionally built by wealthy Ottoman families, and their design reflects the social and cultural norms of the time. The lower floors are typically constructed from stone, while the upper stories, where the living quarters were located, are made of wood. The large windows, for which the city is famous, were not only functional but also symbolic, representing openness and hospitality. Walking through Mangalem feels like stepping into a living museum, where history comes alive with every turn.
One of the standout features of the neighborhood is its religious architecture. Although Berat is a city with a predominantly Muslim population, Mangalem is home to both Islamic and Christian monuments, reflecting the city’s tradition of religious tolerance. The King Mosque (Xhamia e Mbretit), built in the 15th century, is one of the oldest and most prominent mosques in the city. Nearby, the Helveti Tekke, a Sufi lodge, also dates from the Ottoman period and offers insight into the spiritual practices of the time.
Gorica A Sister to Mangalem
On the opposite side of the river lies Gorica, Mangalem’s quieter yet equally enchanting sister neighborhood. Connected to Mangalem by the iconic Gorica Bridge, which dates back to the 18th century, this area offers a different perspective of Berat’s architectural beauty. Gorica is known for its narrow streets, traditional houses, and a more tranquil atmosphere.
Like Mangalem, the houses in Gorica feature large windows and follow a similar Ottoman architectural style, though the neighborhood tends to feel more secluded and residential. Walking through its cobbled lanes feels like wandering through a forgotten chapter of history, where the hustle and bustle of the modern world fades away. The neighborhood also provides some of the best views of Mangalem, allowing visitors to appreciate the full effect of Berat’s “thousand windows” from across the river.
Berat Castle The Crown Jewel
Perched high above the city on a rocky hilltop is Berat Castle (Kalaja e Beratit), one of the most impressive and historically significant fortresses in Albania. The castle's origins date back to the 4th century BCE, during the Illyrian period, but it was during the Byzantine and Ottoman eras that the fortress took on its current form. Today, it remains one of the largest and most well-preserved castles in the Balkans.
Unlike many castles, Berat’s fortress is not just a monument but also a living community. People still live within its walls, and the winding streets inside the fortress are lined with houses, churches, and even a few small businesses. This unique combination of a historical site that remains inhabited adds to Berat Castle’s charm and gives visitors the sense that they are stepping into a place where the past and present coexist seamlessly.
The castle’s stone walls, towers, and gates offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including the city of Berat below, the Osum River, and the distant Tomorr Mountain. Inside the fortress, visitors can explore the ruins of Byzantine churches and Ottoman mosques, highlighting the city’s religious and cultural diversity throughout history. The Church of St. Mary of Blachernae, built in the 13th century, is one of the most notable structures, with its well-preserved frescoes and icons.
Religious Harmony in Berat
One of the most remarkable aspects of Berat’s history is its tradition of religious tolerance. Over the centuries, Muslims, Orthodox Christians, and Catholics have lived side by side in the city, creating a unique cultural and spiritual landscape. This coexistence is most evident in the presence of both Islamic and Christian religious buildings, some of which are situated near each other in the heart of the city.
The Cathedral of St. Demetrius and the Orthodox Church of the Holy Trinity are two prominent Christian landmarks in Berat. The Cathedral of St. Demetrius, located within the walls of Berat Castle, dates back to the Byzantine period and is an important site for Albania’s Orthodox Christian community. The Church of the Holy Trinity, also within the fortress, is known for its cross-shaped architecture and stunning frescoes.
Islamic architecture is equally prominent in Berat, with the aforementioned King Mosque and Helveti Tekke serving as important spiritual and cultural centers. The Lead Mosque (Xhamia e Plumbit), built in the 16th century, is another notable example of Ottoman religious architecture in the city.
The Iconographic Legacy of Onufri
Berat is not only known for its architecture and religious heritage but also for its role as a center of Albanian iconography. The city is home to the National Iconographic Museum Onufri, located within the Church of St. Mary in Berat Castle. The museum is named after Onufri, a 16th-century Albanian painter and one of the most famous iconographers in the Balkans.
Onufri’s work is celebrated for its vivid colors, intricate details, and distinctive use of red, a color that became his signature. His icons and frescoes can be found in churches throughout Albania, and the museum in Berat houses some of his most important pieces, along with works by other notable Albanian iconographers. The museum offers visitors a chance to delve deeper into the spiritual and artistic traditions of Albania, with its collection of religious artifacts, icons, and manuscripts providing a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage.
The Natural Beauty of Berat
While Berat’s historical and architectural wonders are undoubtedly its main attractions, the city is also blessed with stunning natural beauty. The Osum River, which winds through the city, adds to Berat’s picturesque charm, and the surrounding hills and mountains provide a dramatic backdrop to the city’s skyline.
Just a short drive from the city, visitors can explore the Tomorr Mountain National Park, a pristine natural area known for its rugged landscapes, forests, and hiking trails. Tomorr Mountain is considered sacred by both Muslims and Christians, and it is the site of the annual Bektashi pilgrimage, during which thousands of believers ascend the mountain in a spiritual journey.
Conclusion
Berat, with its thousand windows, ancient castle, and harmonious blend of religious and cultural influences, stands as a living testament to Albania’s rich and diverse history. The city’s well-preserved Ottoman architecture, the religious coexistence that has marked its past, and its stunning natural surroundings make it one of the most unique and beautiful destinations in the Balkans.
For those who visit, Berat is not just a city to be seen but a place to be experienced, where every corner tells a story, and every window offers a glimpse into a bygone era. Whether exploring its cobblestone streets, admiring its grand castle, or simply enjoying the views of the Osum River, Berat leaves an indelible impression on all who come to witness its timeless beauty.