Berat, often referred to as the “City of a Thousand Windows”, exudes an elegance that’s rare and deeply rooted in its storied past. This UNESCO World Heritage site has been continuously inhabited since the 4th century BC, making it one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. Dominated by the Berat Castle, a fortress overlooking the town, its walls have seen centuries of historical shifts, from Byzantine to Ottoman rule.

Walking through the stone-laden streets of the Mangalem district, with its tiered houses climbing up the hillside, the city seemed to echo tales from epochs gone by. The Osum River, meandering gently below, has been a silent witness to Berat’s history, reflecting the town’s distinctive architecture in its calm waters. The numerous churches and mosques scattered throughout the town, each with its unique architectural details and significance, speak to Berat’s rich cultural heritage. As the sun set, casting a golden hue over the city, I felt a profound connection to the myriad of souls who had once called this ancient Albanian gem their home.