The picturesque Holy Trinity Church stands proudly upon a grassy hill, within the walls of Berat Castle. It’s one of many churches in the old town of Berat, in central Albania.
The castle resides in is one of the few remaining actively inhabited castles in the country. It’s also one of the most renowned fortresses in Albania if not all of the Balkans.
The Church of the Holy Trinity is a Byzantine church that was built sometime during the 13th and 14th centuries. While the exact date isn’t known, it truly reflects the architecture of that era. There is said to be an inscription containing the governor of the province of Berat’s name inside. His rule lasted from 1302 to 1326, which confirms the church was finished sometime before or during his jurisdiction.
Unfortunately, you’re chances to see the inscription are next to none. Like most of Berat’s churches, the doors remain locked at almost all times. The only way to peak inside is with the assistance of one of the church’s stewards. Where they are located is anyone’s guess. If you do happen to find a caretaker with a key, please let me know!
Despite this, the church is still a must-see.
It’s one of the more well-preserved churches in Berat’s iconic Mangalem Quarter and easily the most photogenic. This is a big feat in Albania, a country where. Most of the churches were destroyed during the Ottoman Empire and most of the mosques during Cold War times.
The stunning views from the Holy Trinity Church.
WHERE IS THE CHURCH LOCATED
The church is situated right below Berat Castle’s main fortress and looks out onto the region’s olive orchards and the impressive Osumi River.
Mount Shpirag can be seen in the distance, and modern structures dot the ground below. The view is a fresh alternative to “the city of a thousand windows” old quarters. Once inside the castle, the church is just a short walk up some zigzagging steps on the western side of the castle.
A Church Walk | The Berat Castle has numerous church ruins spread throughout its interior. A few have signs and share brief informational pieces about the structures. If you wander the grounds to see them, you can start to patch together some history of the area. Don’t be afraid to check out the rest of the village, there is plenty of stuff to do.
If you’re looking to learn more about the castle and church’s within, you can have a look at this tour.
SOME IMPORTANT DETAILS ABOUT THE HOLY TRINITY CHURCH
The Holy Trinity Church is within the walls of Berat Castle, which has an entrance fee. The cost to get to the castle is 300 Albanian Lek from 9:00 – 18:00. However, if you go before or after these times, entry will be free. There’s also a hiking path that veers from Rruga Mihal Komnena up to the castle walls. It shouldn’t cost anything to enter here.
The castle is up a very steep hill, and while it isn’t a long walk, it’s a bit of an exercise. Don’t worry, if you aren’t feeling up for a little hike, you can always grab a taxi or drive up.
Fun Fact | The Holy Trinity Church is one of the reasons Berat’s historic center was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
SOME MORE AWESOME PLACES AND THINGS TO DO AROUND BERAT:
