City of a Thousand Windows
Western Albania, Albania
Known as the ‘Museum City’, Berati is undoubtedly a ‘must see’ for any traveller visiting Albania. Being more than 2,400 years old the town of Berati is one of the most attractive towns in Albania, rich in architecture, culture and history. Berati is also blessed with a dramatic location – situated at the foot of Mount Tomorri on the shores of the River Osumi.
Background
The ‘Town of one Thousand Windows’ is most famous for its white-washed houses which with their many windows seem to have been built on top of each other. Built almost all in white on a slope of green with the river at its feet, it offers a striking view as soon as it becomes visible.
Established in the 3rd century B.C. by an Illyrian tribe from central Albania who built a protective castle, it was known as the fortified city of Antipatrea. In 1417 the town was occupied by the Turks who built several mosques in the area below the town’s old castle.
Relaxing
Across the bridge leading from the old town, on the opposite side of the river in Gorica, is a uniquely situated restaurant, the ‘Ajka’ – a great place to relax, to enjoy the view overlooking the river and old town, and to perhaps enjoy a meal.