10 Things to Do in St. Mary of the Cave Monastery, Berat Albania
St. Mary of the Cave Monastery in Berat, Albania is a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims alike. This ancient monastery, which dates back to the 11th century, is located in the foothills of the Tomorr Mountains and is the oldest in the country. It is a place of great beauty and spiritual significance, and there is no shortage of things to do in and around the monastery. From exploring the monastery’s history and architecture to taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, here are 10 of the best things to do in St. Mary of the Cave Monastery, Berat Albania.
1. Explore the Monastery
The main attraction of St. Mary of the Cave Monastery is the monastery itself. The monastery is a beautiful example of Byzantine architecture and is a great place to explore and learn about its history. Inside, you’ll find a number of ancient frescoes depicting scenes from the Bible, as well as a number of other artifacts and relics. The monastery also houses a small chapel, where you can attend mass or take part in other religious ceremonies.
2. Visit the Tomorr Mountain
The Tomorr Mountain is a stunning mountain range located in the foothills of St. Mary of the Cave Monastery. It is one of the highest mountains in Albania and offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding area. The mountain is also home to a variety of wildlife, including wolves, eagles, and wild boars. Visitors can take part in a number of activities, such as hiking, mountain biking, and even paragliding.
3. Take a Boat Trip on the Osum River
The Osum River is one of the most beautiful and picturesque rivers in Albania. It winds its way through the Tomorr Mountains and is a great place to take a boat trip and explore the surrounding area. You can also take part in a variety of water sports, such as kayaking and rafting.
4. Visit the Ancient City of Berat
Berat is one of the oldest cities in Albania and is home to a number of historical sites and monuments. The city is also known for its traditional Ottoman architecture, which can be seen throughout the city. The city is also home to a number of museums, galleries, and other cultural attractions.
5. Visit the Castle of Berat
The Castle of Berat is one of the most impressive and well-preserved castles in the country. The castle was built in the 13th century and is a great place to explore and learn about its history. There are a number of guided tours available, which will take you around the castle and its grounds.
6. Visit the Onufri National Museum
The Onufri National Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in Albanian history and culture. The museum is home to a number of artifacts and relics from the country’s past, as well as a number of works of art from the country’s most famous artists.
7. Take a Tour of the Tomorr National Park
The Tomorr National Park is a great place to explore and take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including wolves, eagles, and wild boars. There are a number of guided tours available, which will take you around the park and its many attractions.
8. Take a Tour of the Ancient City of Apollonia
Apollonia is one of the most important archaeological sites in Albania and is home to a number of ancient ruins. The city was founded in the 5th century BC and was once an important trading port. There are a number of guided tours available, which will take you around the city and its many attractions.
9. Visit the National Museum of Medieval Art
The National Museum of Medieval Art is located in the city of Berat and is home to a number of artifacts and relics from the country’s medieval period. The museum is also home to a number of works of art from the country’s most famous artists.
10. Take a Day Trip to the Town of Gjirokastra
Gjirokastra is a small town located in the foothills of the Tomorr Mountains and is home to a number of historical sites and monuments. The town is also known for its traditional Ottoman architecture, which can be seen throughout the city. There are a number of guided tours available, which will take you around the city and its many attractions.