Church of the Holy Trinity
One of the most exquisite examples of Byzantine architecture in Albania is located in the Mangalem neighborhood of Berat.
The Church of the Holy Trinity is one of the oldest in the city, featuring layered windows one above the other. Easily recognizable in the museum area of Mangalem in Berat, on the southern side of the Castle, it offers a beautiful panoramic view of Goricë and the promenade of Berat, blending seamlessly with the shadowy ensemble of the city museum protected by UNESCO. The church is among the most visited in the museum area of the Castle and is considered one of the most significant among the 28 churches in the Mangalem area of Berat.
**Architecture**
The construction of the church dates back to the late 13th century. An inscription carved on one of the church gates indicates the closest time of its construction. It represents one of the most interesting models in the building structure, combining Byzantine-style tiles with robust stone rows, serving as the foundation of the lower part of the building. This technique seems to have been crucial in protecting the object from the severe damages of the centuries.
**Frescoes**
The mural frescoes on the interior walls are damaged due to age. However, traces of biblical themes depicting the disciples of Christ, elements of the “Last Supper,” or the days and rituals preceding Easter still adorn the walls of the church. In recent years, efforts have been made to recover the more visible parts of the internal frescoes, created by anonymous painters.
**Byzantine Traces**
The church was last restored in 2016, mainly in the roof section, which was more damaged than the rest of the building. Overall, the upper part of the church is dominated by the reddish color of Byzantine tiles, a material that has withstood time, harmonized with white stones. The exterior view is dominated by the reddish dome, which seems to hover over the lateral arms symbolizing the cross. In its external appearance, the church outlines the arms of the Cross, symbolizing love and dedication to Christ.
**Note:** The church is open from May to October, from 09:00 to 17:00. There is no entrance fee; donations are welcomed.
Visitor Information:
