Berat, Albania’s window to the past

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Berat is your chance to peek at the Ottoman charm that was instilled back in the mid-1400s. It is one of Albania’s best bets for tourism that champions the country’s heritage and culture. Be amazed by the city’s allure found in its ancient structures.

What’s more impressive is the preservation of these remnants making Berat a living memory paving way from the past’s collection of stories and events.

Location

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The name Berat is believed to come from an ancient Bulgarian word meaning white city. The city is situated in South Central Albania. It is the capital city of Berat County and lies on the right bank of River Osum.

The city became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008 due to the well preserved Ottoman houses that make up the majority of the town. As a matter of fact, due to its impressive structure, the city was named the ‘town of a thousand windows.’

Climate

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Berat is known to possess the hottest weather in Albania and is categorized to have a Mediterranean climate. The driest month is July while wettest is January.

The hottest month is August with average temperatures of around 24 degrees Celsius. Average precipitation per annum is at 128 mm.

Transportation

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The city can be reached via buses from its neighbors Tirana and Saranda. Travelling from Tirana will take approximately three hours.

There’s a minibus found outside the university and hospital that passes through Berat. Be informed that the road going to the city will be dusty, but this would not hinder the amazing view of the places you would come across as during the trip.

Attractions

Berat Castle

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Berat Castle provides a good view of the town. Believed to be founded during the 13th century, see various mosques and churches found in this beautiful tourist attraction that is located in the rocky hillside.

What’s even more impressive is the fully functional town that’s equipped with bars and restaurants, which is why tourists need not worry about satisfying their hungry stomachs as eateries are conveniently situated throughout the town.

Mangalemi Quarter

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Known as the city of a thousand windows, Mangalemi quarter’s architecture is one of a kind. 

Impressive due to its uniform white facade and houses made of bricks, the houses that make up this ancient attraction provide a good view of the Osumi River.

Get the best of both worlds and never miss a chance to see the beauty of Mangalemi Quarter.

Bridge of Gorica

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Founded in the 18th century, this became one of the famous landmarks in Berat. The bridge that was originally made of wood connects the city to its neighboring town, Gorica.

The seven-arch bridge measures 423 ft. long and has undergone several renovations since it was originally built.

http://laurenceourac.com/berat-albanias-window-to-the-past/

Images:
(1) https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVP4k5k-Gh9K0CdC-CBQnWbMr4v_G8VNqSYUCTBuNW1h_9RtAoOvn4-pZ-3dfG7hL3U7E1eetOb8T-EphiF3hGI-DUQmmAJshyphenhyphenLuaZ7giqYptS7E0z807yYryvIxy4XJzdlhsRn3lG53cE/s1600/Berat_8.JPG
(2) http://www.infoalb.net/02conavstivit/Berat/Berat-city-map.jpg
(3) http://cdn.travelcake.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/WALK3.jpg?ff89e8
(4) http://www.2wanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/150504-Albania-Gjirokaster-1-640x480_thumb.jpg
(5) http://www.rearviewmirror.tv/albania/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/berat-castle-1.jpg
(6) http://www.bikooch.com/social/imageviewer/19426
(7) http://images2.fanpop.com/image/photos/8500000/Berat-albania-8583081-800-600.jpg
(8) http://albca.com/albania/images/berat/berat.jpg
(9) https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5538/11365549114_6419eae986_b.jpg