Berat

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Berat, often referred to as the "Ottoman town of a thousand windows," is a city steeped in history and culture, located in south-central Albania. It is nestled along the banks of the Osum River, with the towering Tomorr Mountain providing a dramatic backdrop. Berat's longstanding history is evident in its architecture and urban layout, reflecting its significance as a crossroads of various civilizations, from the Illyrians and Romans to the Byzantines and Ottomans.

The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its well-preserved Ottoman-era architecture. The old town comprises two primary quarters - Mangalem and Gorica - on opposite sides of the river, connected by a stone arched bridge. One of the most remarkable landmarks within Berat is the Berat Castle, which dates back to the 4th century BC. Unlike many other castles, it remains inhabited, boasting a collection of Byzantine churches, mosques, and the Onufri National Museum, named after the famous 16th-century Albanian painter known for his vivid iconography.

Culturally, Berat hosts vibrant traditions, festivals, and events, such as the multisensory Berat Festival, which celebrates music, art, and film, attracting artists from across the region and beyond. Another notable event is the Tomorri Mountain Festival, a pilgrimage to the sacred site traditionally carried out by the Bektashi Sufi community.