Berat

Berat, Albania - The Town of a Thousand Windows

Berat, Albania - The Town of a Thousand Windows

Berat in Albania is called "the town of a thousand windows". And that is so true. Looking at the beautiful houses "climbing" up the steep hill around the old town, you can't help but notice the seemingly endless number windows. Because Berat is beautifully situated in the mountains, it also offers amazing bird's eye views.
Both Berat and Gjirokaster (take a look at my post about Gjirokaster) are the most beautiful towns in Albania. Together with Mostar, Prizren and Ohrid, they form a district full of the distinctive Ottoman Empire architecture, unique for Europe. This region, although as rich in history and as attractive as the Spanish or Italian equivalents, receives hardly ever foreign tourists. But it's a good thing, you can explore what's best without annoying crowds and discover Europe's  best hidden gem freely.