Free Tour of Berat Castle

Join us on this complimentary journey through Berat Castle, where we will discover one of Albania's most significant historical sites. By navigating the castle's remarkable fortifications, churches, and cobblestone pathways, you will gain insight into the area's rich history.

Tour Overview

Our adventure begins promptly at the Antonio Gramsci monument, where we will gather to kick off this complimentary tour lasting approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. As we admire the castle's towering walls, you will uncover the layers of history from the various civilisations that have inhabited the city of a thousand windows. Are you ready to step back in time?

Within the castle grounds lies the historic Kala neighbourhood. As we stroll through its enchanting streets, we will uncover stories about the lives of its residents and delve into the area's social, cultural, and economic background. We will then pause at three significant churches: St. Nicholas, St. Mary of Blachernae, and St. Constantine and Helen, which are part of a total of 22 religious structures that once graced the fortress.

Our visit will include the Church of St. Mary of Blacharnae, originally constructed in the 6th century and later renovated in the 13th century, where we will appreciate the 16th-century Byzantine frescos that adorn its interior. Shortly after, we will visit the Church of St. Nicholas, located just a few steps away, which contains one of the city's oldest architectural elements used as an altar.

An ancient trail will guide us to the Acropolis, the highest point of the castle, offering a fascinating glimpse of the three outlines of walls that once safeguarded the fortress. Prepare to take in breathtaking views of the remains of the White Mosque and the striking Mount Shpirag that punctuate the landscape. As we descend from the Acropolis, we will investigate the intriguing Red Mosque, whose date of construction remains ambiguous, alongside the Monastery of St. George, which provides stunning vistas of southern Berat and the hills leading to Mount Tomorri. These moments will be truly memorable!

Following our exploration of the monastery, we will arrive at the Tower of Tabaya, an outstanding viewpoint offering the finest panoramic views of the city. You will feel elevated above the Gorica neighbourhood and the contemporary sections of Berat.

Eventually, we will make our way back to the original meeting point after 1 hour and 20 minutes, where you will have the opportunity to admire the facades of historical homes and traditional shops in the eastern section of the castle.