The Gorica Ruins are a jumble of ancient stones from the region’s long-forgotten times. They create an unconventional viewing platform that overlooks the beautiful old city of Berat, Albania.
Just a short hike up a shaggy forested mountainside, the ruins are directly over one of Berat’s famous medieval neighborhoods – the Gorica Quarter. The district is best known for its cobbled walkways, orthodox churches, and stone-built homes. But, the abandoned fortress above the quarter is worth a visit as well.
The Short Hike Up
A hiking trail behind one of the houses leads to the sprawled-out remains of the former castle. If you’re not sure where to look the entrance can be a bit tricky to find. However, if you keep your eyes open you’ll notice small signs hanging among the stone houses. They’ll point you in the trail’s direction until you reach an entrance sign for hiking.
A little heads-up | Make sure to read the trail guide sign at the beginning of the hike, and don’t be afraid to say hello to any fellow trail-goers!
Once you start the ascent up the hill, you’ll notice multiple intersecting pathways. Some routes lead further out into the countryside, so be careful to head towards the Gorica Ruins (map) themselves. They stand unmarked, but after a short time, giant stones in the shape of a wall will appear between the trees when you look up the hill.
The ground on the current structure stands is said to have been inhabited thousands of years ago. But, the castle has remained unused since the Roman occupation in the 2nd century BC. I should also note that there are signs a fortification might have been here as early as the Bronze Age.
THE STUNNING VIEWS FROM THE GORICA RUINS
Nowadays, the area has been transformed into a social gathering place. Small man-made bonfire pits are scattered on top of the hill, and hikers come for the fresh air and stunning views. You might even catch a local goat herder taking an afternoon snooze underneath the shaded trees, at least this was my personal experience.
From the Gorica Ruins, you can see the whole city of Berat. The Berat Castle stands directly opposite the hill across the river. Below it is the beautiful St. Michael’s Church and the Mangalem Quarter with its “thousand windows.” The famous Gorica Bridge that connects the two iconic quarters is also in sight.
You’ll get a bird’s eye view of the Gorica Quarter and its many churches too. Tomorri Mountain National Park is off in the distance, and the dazzling blue waters of the Osumi River appear for miles.
The aging stone walls and wonderful hike through nature make the ruins an awesome little midday adventure from the charming old town of Berat!
Do it yourself | The trek up to the ruins is the perfect self-guided trip. There isn’t a need to attempt this through a company, however, I do suggest finding a hiking buddy to share the experience with!
If you’re looking to learn more about Berat and the Gorica Quarter specifically, I suggest having a look at some tours here and here. The city has a rich history dating back centuries and tons of awesome places to explore.
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