On a small island within the Narta Lagoon, the Zvernec Monastery appears before hundreds of pine trees.
Also known as the St. Mary Of Divinity Church, the Byzantine era church was thought to be built sometime during the 14th century. Despite its age, the building is extremely well preserved.
The inside is full of beautiful paintings and exceptionally intricate woodworking. The outside has a well maintained garden, and a few modern structures belonging to the church.
These are the only buildings on the island of Zverenec, so don’t expect to eat out while you are there. Although, there is usually a food truck just across the water at the entrance, with cold drinks and snacks.
The whole visit to Zvernec can be done relatively quick though, but it’s a great place to spend an afternoon.
ACROSS A LONG WOODEN BRIDGE
There is only one thing connecting the tiny island with the mainland, and that is a curved wooden bridge.
The current bridge was built in more recent years and forks into two paths about midway through. The first of those leads to the old monastery. The second widens into a dock, where people can watch the native birds and locals come to fish the wide lagoon.
Right next to the entrance to the bridge, metal flamingos shoot out from the water. These are here because Narta Lagoon is known for its actual flamingos. After a long absence, the area is now said to be home to around 3,000 of these long-necked fellows.
If you like birds, you can also have a seat along the shore and search the skies and water for pelicans, herons, and a few other species.
Where is Zvernec Monastery located?
The Zvernec Monastery is just a short drive (or long walk) from Vlora in Southern Albania. The trip will take you through a stretch of forest that leads to beaches and restaurants along the sea.
For the adventurous walkers, the whole way is quite flat and, for the most part, shaded. It will take you around an hour and a half one way.
In the end, the monastery is an extremely peaceful and quiet place to escape the beach crowds of Vlora.
A friendly notice: There is a sign up that asks you to not take photos once on the island, along with a few other things. There’s also a donation box in the church, I recommend throwing a few Lek in there to help keep the island in good shape.
