Berat Cathedral
Built in 1797, Iconographic museum of Berat is situated at the highest altitude of the Berat Castle though it can be a little difficult to find. While the Ottomans were Muslim, they allowed Christians to continue practicing their faith and build churches. Inside, you initially find yourself facing the Holy Altar with masterful engravings and paintings of Bible scenes in the incredibly lavish and ornate iconostasis of the Iconographic museum of Berat, created in 1807, the most eye-catching part of the interior of the church, is considered one of the greatest accomplishments of the 19th-century Albanian wood-carving masters. It stretches along the entire interior of the cathedral and includes twelve royal icons as well as twenty-seven small festive icons. Stepping out of the main altar, you enter the Onufri National Iconographic Museum, built in 1986. The Museum’s name honors the Albanian master painter of the 16th century.
The museum contains an immense collection of 173 pieces selected objects from Albanian churches and monasteries. This museum is spread throughout the many church spaces. The different rooms showcase the best works by the most renowned artists. Visitors coming out of the Cathedral are continue to seek that unforgettable “Onufri red”, whose special formula the master painter never revealed, and one whose influence is spread across almost every church within the Castle of Berat. You can visit this beautiful site throughwi our tours HERE.
In addition, Berat with more than 20 centuries of history, Berat is a mosaic city of different cultures and influences. It is a city of multi-cultures. Local ancient civilizations of 6th Century BC are fused with Roman culture, the medieval period, Eastern Ottoman influence, and communist changes. Berat is also characterized by a wealthy traditional culture, heritage, and religious harmony.
During the visit to the Ethnographic Museum of Berat you will understand how a local family uses to leave their everyday life. This unique house, turn into a museum in 1979, is one of the most classic examples of the Ottoman style of Architecture, fused with local specifics and the charm that all the city of Berat glows.
