Berat Castle sits atop the hill and is the original centre of Berat. More of a small fortified town than a castle, the complex takes in walls, towers, churches, mosque ruins and an historic cistern as well as numerous small buildings that are maintained today as houses, restaurants and shops.
It is a cool, early spring day in Berat and we warm ourselves up climbing Rruga Mihal Komnena to the castle gates.
Berat Castle History
Entering through Gorica Gate, it is immediately apparent that Berat Castle, also known as the Citadel of Berat, is an ancient fortress with a rich history. In fact, it dates back to the 4th century BC when it was constructed by the Illyrians. Over the centuries, the castle was expanded and fortified by various rulers, including the Byzantines, Bulgarians and Ottomans to become what it is today.
During the long Byzantine period (330AD – 1453AD), Berat Castle played an important strategic role in defending the region against invaders. The castle was heavily fortified with walls and towers and housed a garrison that helped protect the city from attacks. In the 13th century, the castle came under the rule of the Despotate of Epirus and in the 15th Century, fell into the hands of the Ottoman Empire.
The fortifications of Berat Castle include thick stone walls, watchtowers and gates, designed specifically to protect the castle from fierce enemy attacks. The walls of the castle are built using a technique known as “cyclopean masonry,” where large irregularly shaped stones are fitted together without mortar. This construction method made the walls incredibly strong and resistant to impending attacks and is still apparent from parts of the structure that remains.
The castle has three main gates, each of which is fortified with towers and battlements. The main entrance to the castle through the Gate of Gorica where we have entered, is located on the eastern side of the fortress and is flanked by two towers and a drawbridge.
Constantine the Great and St. Mary of Blachernae
A little further around to the west from the main gate is a bust of the great Constantine which sits in front of the St. Mary of Blachernae Church.
The bust of Constantine at Berat Castle is a marble sculpture believed to depict the Roman Emperor Constantine the Great (reign 306-337AD). He was known as a particularly influential figure in the history of Christianity.
The sculpture is a powerful and detailed representation of the Emperor, showcasing his distinctive features and regal demeanor. The placement of the bust at Berat Castle is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Roman Empire and its impact on the history of Europe. It serves as a reminder of the wide reaching power and influence of Rome during the ancient world and the enduring presence of its emperors in the collective memory of later generations.
The church of St. Mary of Blachernae that sits behind the Contstantine bust is one of many Byzantine churches located within the Castle grounds. It is also one of the oldest churches in the country, dating back to the 13th century. Recognized for its beautiful frescoes and intricate architectural details it blends Byzantine and Albanian influences.
Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, it derives its name from the Blachernae Palace in Constantinople. The palace was also dedicated to the same saint. The church was used as a mosque during the Ottoman period but was converted back to a Christian church in the early 20th century. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction and a site of pilgrimage for Orthodox Christians. It serves as both a cultural and historical landmark in Berat, showcasing the rich Byzantine heritage of the region.
Holy Trinity Church
The Holy Trinity Church at Berat Castle is another medieval Byzantine church also dating back to the 13th century. Like the St. Mary church, Holy Trinity was also used as a mosque during the Ottoman period. It contains important frescoes and is another testament to the city’s rich cultural heritage.
The church is known for its unique architectural style, featuring a dome with a cylindrical drum. The Byzantine frescoes that cover the interior walls.
Ruins of the Red Mosque
The Red Mosque, also known as the Mosque of Sultan Mehmed Fatih, is a historic mosque located alongside the many churches within the Berat Castle complex. It was built in the 15th century during the Ottoman period and is one of the oldest mosques in the city.
The mosque is named the Red Mosque due to the distinctive red hue of its exterior walls. The mosque was a prominent religious and cultural center in the region for centuries. It’s unfortunate that today all that remains is parts of some walls, an archway and the ruins of the minaret. Despite this, the site hints at the rich history of Islam in Albania and the cultural influences of the Ottoman Empire in the region. There are similar ruins of a white mosque on the site.
Berat Panoramic View Point
This is one of the best spots at Berat Castle. Offering stunning panoramic views of the city of Berat and the surrounding landscape, the viewing point is situated at the highest point of the castle. It provides a bird’s eye view of the city’s historic buildings, mosques, and Ottoman-style houses. From here we can also see the Osumi River winding its way through the valley below.
It seems like a popular spot as there are a couple of small groups of tourists here. Equally, some locals seems to be sitting quietly off to the side chatting. They appear almost oblivious to the breathtaking views and picturesque scenery. This is a great place to enjoy the beauty of Berat from above. What’s more, the platform is easily accessible via a series of stairs and pathways within the castle grounds.
Onufri Museum
The Onufri Museum is a little gem of medieval preserved and restored artwork located within the walls of Berat Castle. The museum is dedicated to the renowned Albanian painter Onufri. It showcases a collection of religious icons and artwork from the 14th to the 20th century.
It’s well worth the visit if you have a few extra minutes to stope in and enjoy the collection.
Good To Know
Today, Berat Castle is a popular Albanian tourist attraction and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins of the castle, including its defensive walls, towers, and religious buildings. The castle offers stunning views of the city of Berat and the surrounding landscape. We can take in views of Mount Tommori and Mount Shpirag from here. As well as the views, it is a must see destination for history enthusiasts and travellers alike.
Would I Return?
No.
