"White City"

Since I've been very busy on some projects, I finally found the time to post some pictures I took a couple of months ago when I visited another city of Albania for the first time. Always choosing ancient cities especially those where artworks are saved through years. 

I'm talking about the city of Berat! Located in south-central of Albania, it's old town called "Mangalem" is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. It's name is derived by old Bulgarian which means "White City" . But what makes this city so special? Scroll down!

So this is it's huge castle which dates mainly from the end of the 7th century B.C. It contains many Byzantine churches, 40 PaleoChristian churches and Ottoman mosques. The buildings inside of it were built during the 13th century and now they are preserved as cultural monument because of their characteristic architectural style. This castle is depicted on the reverse of the Albanian "10 Leke" coin.

Picture with the view of the large Tomorri mountain. 

"Onufri" National Museum

This museum contains a rich iconographic collection especially the work of the most remarkable painter, Onufri. He was the first one who introduced a new color in paintings "Shiny red" which the French called "Onufri's red" . There were most of his icons which belong to the 16th century. You have to visit the museum to see them because FORTUNATELY it isn't allowed to take pictures.

The 13th century Byzantine church of the Holy Trinity

And this is the only mosque inside the castle which is called "The Red Mosque" built in the 15th century which makes it one of the oldest mosques in the country.

The view of the city from the top of the castle.

"Gorica" Neighborhoud

Leaving the ancient castle and taking a walk along the modern city which still seemed ancient to me.

The day two was mostly about visiting "Mangalem" neighborhood very known for it's traditional houses where people still live in.

"King Mosque" 

Cute baby boy!

So, this was only a short summary from the best places I visited there. I have been traveling a lot lately and visiting Berat was one of the best trips I have had here in Albania. I mean, there are so many interesting places to visit and take pictures. Besides, I have enjoyed a lot the rest of the days by relaxing in front of the incredible view of Mangalem from my hotel room, have celebrated the women's day in a traditional restaurant, drinking the best wine and listening to live music. There are so many precious places here in Albania! 

Hoping you found this article interesting!

Love,

Kurisu