10 Things to Do in St. Mary of the Spring Monastery, Berat Albania
St. Mary of the Spring Monastery, located in Berat Albania, is a unique and beautiful destination for any traveler. The monastery was founded in the 13th century and is one of the most important religious sites in the country. The monastery is home to a museum, a library, and a stunning collection of religious artifacts. Here are 10 things to do in St. Mary of the Spring Monastery, Berat Albania.
1. Take a Tour of the Monastery: St. Mary of the Spring Monastery offers guided tours of the grounds. The tour will take you through the chapel, the library, and the museum. You'll get to see the stunning frescoes and the ancient artifacts that are housed within the monastery walls.
2. Visit the Museum: The museum is home to a wide variety of artifacts from the monastery's long history. You'll find relics from the Byzantine era, as well as artifacts from the Ottoman period. The museum also houses a collection of religious artifacts, including icons and holy books.
3. Explore the Library: The library at St. Mary of the Spring Monastery is home to a large collection of books and manuscripts. The library holds books from the 14th century and earlier, and it is a great place to learn about the history of the monastery and its inhabitants.
4. Attend a Service: St. Mary of the Spring Monastery is a functioning monastery, and visitors are welcome to attend services. The services are held in the chapel and are open to the public.
5. Visit the Crypt: The crypt at St. Mary of the Spring Monastery is home to the remains of several of the monastery's founders. It is a solemn and sacred place, and visitors should be respectful when visiting.
6. Take a Hike: The grounds of St. Mary of the Spring Monastery are home to a network of trails that are perfect for hiking. The trails offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside and allow visitors to explore the natural beauty of the area.
7. Enjoy the Views: St. Mary of the Spring Monastery is located atop a hill, and the views from the grounds are stunning. On a clear day, you can see for miles in all directions.
8. Attend a Concert: St. Mary of the Spring Monastery is home to a concert hall, and visitors can enjoy performances of traditional Albanian music. The concerts are held in the chapel and feature local musicians.
9. Visit the Gift Shop: The gift shop at St. Mary of the Spring Monastery offers a wide variety of souvenirs and religious artifacts. You can find everything from crosses and icons to books and jewelry.
10. Enjoy a Meal: The on-site restaurant at St. Mary of the Spring Monastery serves traditional Albanian dishes. The menu features local specialties, such as sarma (stuffed cabbage leaves) and qofte (meatballs).
No matter what you choose to do, St. Mary of the Spring Monastery is sure to provide an unforgettable experience. From the stunning architecture to the beautiful views, this is a must-see destination in Berat Albania.