Lead Mosque Berat Albania
A beautifully preserved Ottoman-era mosque in Berat, Albania, known for its classical architecture and serene atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Lead Mosque Berat Albania
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beautifully preserved Ottoman-era mosque in Berat, Albania, known for its classical architecture and serene atmosphere.
"A simple yet soothing historical gem in the heart of Berat, offering a glimpse into Ottoman heritage."
Modest Dress Code
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting. :pray: Respectful attire is key for this active place of worship.
Free Admission
Entry to the Lead Mosque is free! :moneywithwings: Enjoy this historical gem without any cost.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lead-Covered Dome
Dome
Admire the distinctive dome, once covered in lead, giving the mosque its unique name and historical significance.
Ottoman Architecture
Exterior and Interior
Experience a beautiful example of classical Ottoman mosque architecture with elegant stonework and a simple, soothing interior.
Historical Significance
Berat City Center
Discover a key religious structure from the Ottoman period, a testament to Berat's rich historical tapestry.
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Modest Dress Code
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting. :pray: Respectful attire is key for this active place of worship.
Free Admission
Entry to the Lead Mosque is free! :moneywithwings: Enjoy this historical gem without any cost.
Quiet Contemplation
The interior is simple and soothing. :dove: Take a moment for quiet reflection.
Historical Context
Built in 1553 by a student of Mimar Sinan. :scroll: Learn about its Ottoman heritage.
Tips
from all over the internet
Modest Dress Code
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting. :pray: Respectful attire is key for this active place of worship.
Free Admission
Entry to the Lead Mosque is free! :moneywithwings: Enjoy this historical gem without any cost.
Quiet Contemplation
The interior is simple and soothing. :dove: Take a moment for quiet reflection.
Historical Context
Built in 1553 by a student of Mimar Sinan. :scroll: Learn about its Ottoman heritage.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Lead Mosque in Berat is praised for its historical significance as a well-preserved example of Ottoman architecture and its serene, simple interior. Visitors appreciate its free admission and central location, making it an accessible cultural landmark. Some may find the interior quite basic, but its historical context and peaceful atmosphere are consistently highlighted as positives.
"Berat Kuşrunlu Mosque (also known as Kurshunlu Mosque or Xhamia e Plumbit in Albania) is one of the most important mosques in Albania from the Ottoman period. It is located in the city of Berat, very close to the historical area on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
• Year of Construction: 1553
• Built by: It is said to have been built by an Ottoman governor who was one of Mimar Sinan's students.
• Where Does Its Name Come From?: The name "Kurşunlu" comes from the fact that its dome was covered with lead.
• Architectural Features:
• It is one of the beautiful examples of classical Ottoman mosque architecture.
• The central domed structure attracts attention with its simple and elegant stonework.
• There were also a madrasah, fountain and complex structures next to it, but only the mosque structure has survived to the present day.
• Status: The mosque, which remained closed for many years, was restored by TIKA when religious structures regained importance in Albania. Today, it is open to both worship and visitors."
Ömer Lütfü GÖZSÜZ
"Mosque 🕌 in the heart of Betat, open for free.
Photos and review in April 2025."
Domingo González Gálvez
"Built during the Ottoman period. It is located in the center of the city of Berat. It is so called because its domes are covered with lead.
Built during the Ottoman period. It is located in the center of the city of Berat. It is so called because its domes are covered with lead."
Dimitri Piccinini
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Lead Mosque is centrally located in Berat, Albania, making it easily accessible on foot within the city center. It's situated near the historical UNESCO World Heritage area.
While direct parking at the mosque might be limited due to its central location, there are usually parking options available in the surrounding areas of Berat's city center. It's best to check local signage upon arrival.
Yes, the Lead Mosque is conveniently located near many of Berat's key attractions, including the historical quarter. Walking is a great way to explore the city and reach the mosque.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the Lead Mosque is free. It is open to both worshipers and visitors, allowing everyone to experience its historical and architectural significance.
The mosque is generally open to visitors, but it's advisable to be mindful of local prayer times. It's best to visit during daylight hours outside of scheduled prayer services.
Yes, as it is an active place of worship, visitors are expected to dress modestly. This includes covering shoulders and knees.
Photography is generally permitted inside the Lead Mosque, but it's always good practice to be discreet and respectful, especially during prayer times.
🎫 🕌 Onsite Experience
The Lead Mosque is a fine example of classical Ottoman mosque architecture, characterized by its central domed structure and simple, elegant stonework.
Historically, the mosque was part of a larger complex that included a madrasah, a fountain, and other structures. However, only the mosque building has survived to the present day.
The mosque gets its name 'Kurşunlu' (meaning 'lead' in Turkish) from the fact that its dome was historically covered with lead.
Yes, the mosque was restored by TIKA (Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency) when religious structures regained importance in Albania, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
The interior is described as very simple and small, offering a soothing and peaceful atmosphere for visitors.
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Deep Dives
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A Glimpse into Ottoman Heritage
The mosque's name, 'Kurşunlu', directly translates to 'lead-covered' in Turkish, referencing the historical material used to sheath its dome. This distinctive feature, combined with its classical Ottoman architectural style, sets it apart. While many historical mosques were part of larger complexes, the Lead Mosque, though once accompanied by a madrasah and fountain, now stands as a singular, preserved structure, highlighting its enduring presence.
After years of closure, the mosque underwent restoration by TIKA, a move that coincided with the renewed importance of religious structures in Albania. Today, it is accessible to both worshippers and visitors, offering a tangible connection to the past. Its simple yet elegant design and the peaceful ambiance within its walls provide a serene experience for all who step inside.
Architectural Elegance and Simplicity
Inside, the mosque offers a stark contrast to the grandeur often associated with larger religious buildings. Visitors frequently describe the interior as 'very simple and small, but soothing.' This minimalist approach creates an atmosphere conducive to contemplation and prayer. The focus is on the spiritual essence rather than elaborate decoration, making it a place of quiet reflection.
The mosque's historical name, derived from its lead-covered dome, points to a specific construction detail that would have been both functional and visually distinctive. While the original lead covering may have been replaced over time, the name serves as a reminder of its unique historical attribute. The preservation and restoration efforts have ensured that this architectural gem continues to be appreciated for its historical and aesthetic value.
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