Berat - Albania

Berat is an ancient city in Southern Albania. The city's old town is listed on UNESCO's World Heritage list for its wealth of architecturally and historically interesting buildings. On the banks of the river Osum, the city was renowned for its crafts including wood carvers, silver smiths and leather workers. Surrounded by the Tomorr mountains the city is overlooked by a citadel with narrow streets, white Ottoman houses and a 13th century church. Famous for its religious tolerance there are many well-preserved churches and mosques. The mountains are carpeted with olive and cherry trees and pines cover the higher slopes providing a dramatic backdrop to this picturesque place.