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Explore Albanian history from the 6th century BC at Apollonia. Visit Apollonia, then Berat’s Castle, Mangalem, and Gorica, covering Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman periods in one detailed tour.

Highlights

• Explore the Ancient Archaeological Park of Apollonia.
• Discover Berat, the “City of a Thousand Windows.”
• Visit the Ethnographic Museum and admire Ottoman architecture.

Description

We will depart Tirana at 8:00 am, heading south toward Albania’s Ancient Archaeological Park of Apollonia. Nestled among picturesque hills and olive groves, the site is a two-hour drive from Tirana. Upon arrival, we’ll begin exploring this once-thriving Hellenic city, which was one of the most renowned in the Adriatic region. Apollonia was a significant educational center, attracting scholars, including a young Roman Emperor. After exploring Apollonia, we’ll journey to central southern Albania to visit Berat, the “City of a Thousand Windows.” A UNESCO World Heritage site since 2008, Berat boasts over 20 centuries of history. Remarkably, life in the city has never ceased, and today, the Castle, or “Kalaja,” remains the oldest neighborhood. Primarily inhabited by Christian Orthodox residents, the area houses the largest collection of churches dating back to the 14th century. At the Ethnographic Museum in Berat, you’ll gain insight into the daily life of a local family. This unique house, transformed into a museum in 1979, is a quintessential example of Ottoman architecture blended with local elements, reflecting the charm that permeates Berat. Mangalem, the most scenic part of Berat, is perched steeply on a hill just below the castle. Known for its distinctive architecture, white walls, and numerous windows, Mangalem mirrors its counterpart, Gorica, across the river. The neighborhood took its current form during the Ottoman period, evolving after an earthquake reshaped the city. The architecture transitioned from heavy, stone towers with small windows to lighter structures with more windows. In the 17th and 18th centuries, Berat was one of Albania’s most important cities, attracting settlers from across the country. This led to the development of Gorica, primarily as a merchant quarter with settlers from Voskopoja in southeastern Albania. The city’s whitewashed buildings and distinctive style were preserved, creating two mirrored neighborhoods on opposite sides of the Osumi River, connected by the historic Gorica Stone Bridge.

Includes

Hotel Pick Up / Drop off Comfortable, AC Car Tour Guide Entrance Fees

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund