Lead Mosque, Berat

Mosque near Berat

Berat Lead Mosque
Berat Lead Mosque
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Sebleouf

The Lead Mosque (Xhamia e Plumbit) is one of those Berat landmarks that rewards a slow, observant visit rather than a rushed photo stop. Set right in the city's central fabric, it's compact and beautifully proportioned, with a domed prayer hall and a slender minaret that immediately signals you're standing in a place shaped by centuries of Ottoman influence.

Because it sits so close to the main streets and other historic sights, it's easy to weave into a walking tour of Berat as one of the top attractions in Berat, especially if you enjoy places that still feel part of everyday life. Even when you only see it from the outside, the setting, materials, and calm presence make it a satisfying pause in a day of exploring the city's layered neighbourhoods.

History and Significance of the Lead Mosque (Xhamia e Plumbit)

The Lead Mosque dates to the Ottoman period and is typically placed in the mid-16th century, when Berat was growing into an important administrative and cultural centre. Its popular name comes from the lead covering associated with its dome, a practical choice that also became a defining visual signature.

Beyond the architectural appeal, the mosque matters because it represents Berat’s long tradition of religious coexistence and the way Ottoman-era monuments remain embedded in the modern city. It is also recognised as part of Albania’s cultural heritage, which is why you’ll often see it referenced alongside Berat’s UNESCO-listed historic quarters when people talk about what makes the city feel so distinctive.

Things to See and Do in the Lead Mosque (Xhamia e Plumbit)

Begin by walking a full loop around the exterior. The mosque's appeal is in the balance of its forms-dome, drum, walls, and minaret-and the way the structure sits calmly against the bustle of central Berat. Look for subtle masonry details and the clean transitions between elements, which are often what separates a quick glance from a real appreciation of the building.

If the mosque is open to visitors when you arrive, step inside briefly for the atmosphere. Interiors in working mosques are rarely about spectacle; instead, notice the quiet geometry, the directionality of the prayer space, and the way light falls across the simplest surfaces. If it is closed, treat it as an architectural stop and pair it with nearby sights so it still feels like a meaningful part of your route.

How to Get to the Lead Mosque (Xhamia e Plumbit)

From most central hotels and guesthouses in Berat, the simplest approach is on foot, following the main streets toward the city centre and then cutting across to the mosque as a short detour from the riverfront routes. If you are arriving by intercity bus, a short taxi ride or a straightforward walk brings you into the central area where the mosque is located.

The nearest major airport is Tirana International Airport (TIA), and the usual onward route is to continue to Berat by bus or taxi via Tirana. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Berat on Booking.com. Intercity buses and minibuses are the most practical public-transport option for Berat, with frequent connections from Tirana and other major towns.

There is no practical passenger train option for reaching Berat, so plan around buses or road travel instead. If you are driving, Berat is an easy road trip from Tirana and works well if you want to add wineries, viewpoints, and small villages outside the city centre to your itinerary. If you are looking to rent a car in Albania I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Lead Mosque (Xhamia e Plumbit)

  • Entrance fee: Free
  • Opening hours: Daily: 07:00–20:00.
  • Best time to visit: Aim for a quieter window between the morning rush and midday activity, when you can enjoy the setting without feeling hurried. Late afternoon also works well if you are linking it with riverside strolling and dinner plans.
  • How long to spend: 15-30 minutes is ideal for a relaxed exterior look and a brief interior visit if it is open.
  • Accessibility: The surrounding streets are generally flat and central, but historic thresholds and doorways can make step-free access inconsistent.
  • Facilities: There are plenty of cafés, minimarkets, and restrooms in nearby businesses in the city centre, but on-site visitor facilities are limited.

Where to Stay Close to the Lead Mosque (Xhamia e Plumbit)

For a culture-heavy itinerary, base yourself in Mangalem or Gorica so you can walk to the main sights and enjoy the evening atmosphere; if your priority is easy transport access and straightforward parking, staying closer to the modern centre can be more convenient.

For classic Berat character in the historic quarter, Hotel Mangalemi puts you close to the old lanes and within easy walking distance of central landmarks. If you prefer the Gorica side for a slightly quieter feel while still being walkable to everything, Hotel Boutique Osumi is a strong base. For a comfortable, polished option that still keeps you close to the historic core, Amalia Hotel is well suited to travellers who want an easy, well-appointed stay.

Is the Lead Mosque (Xhamia e Plumbit) Worth Visiting?

Yes, especially because it fits naturally into a day in Berat without demanding much time or planning. It's a small, elegant landmark that adds depth to your understanding of the city, and it works well as a calm counterpoint to the busier viewpoints and museum stops.

It is also a good “connector” sight-something you can place between bigger highlights to keep your route feeling coherent. Even if the interior is not accessible at the moment you arrive, the building’s exterior and setting still make it a worthwhile stop.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.3 (7)

Lead Mosque, located in the centre of Berat near the historic area, is a small Ottoman-era mosque known locally as Kurshunlu or Xhamia e Plumbit because its dome was covered in lead; visitors describe it as a simple, soothing interior with classic central domed Ottoman stonework, and it was restored after a long closure and is now open for worship and visits free of charge.

Ömer Lütfü GÖZSÜZ
6 months ago
"Berat Kuşrunlu Mosque (also known as Kurshunlu Mosque or Xhamia e Plumbit in Albania) is one of the most important mosques in Albania from theOttoman period. It is located in the city of Berat, very close to the historical area on the UNESCO World Heritage List. • Year of Construction: 1553n• Built by: It is said to have been built by an Ottoman governor who was one of Mimar Sinan's students.n• Where Does Its Name Come From?: The name "Kurşunlu" comes from the fact that its dome was covered with lead.n• Architectural Features:n• It is one of the beautiful examples of classical Ottoman mosque architecture.n• The central domed structure attracts attention with its simple and elegant stonework.n• There were also a madrasah, fountain and complex structures next to it, but only the mosque structure has survived to the present day.n• 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...."
Domingo González Gálvez
8 months ago
"Mosque 🕌 in the heart of Betat, open for free. Photos and review in April 2025."
Dimitri Piccinini
8 months ago
"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. Builtduring 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...."

For Different Travelers

Families with Kids

This is a low-stress stop for families because it is central and doesn’t require a long visit to feel rewarding. Treat it as a quick architecture spot-dome, minaret, and a short walk around-then move on to a café or the riverside where kids can reset.

If you hope to enter, set expectations about quiet voices and respectful behaviour, and be ready to adjust if the space is being used for worship. It’s often easiest to visit earlier in the day when the surrounding streets feel calmer.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

For couples, the Lead Mosque works best as part of a gentle city-wandering day rather than a stand-alone destination. The contrast between the mosque's calm presence and the lively streets around it can feel surprisingly intimate, especially when you arrive during a quieter moment.

Pair it with a short loop that includes the river, the historic quarters, and a sunset viewpoint. It’s the kind of stop that adds atmosphere and texture to your day rather than ticking a box.

Budget Travelers

Budget travellers will appreciate that this is a meaningful cultural stop that doesn’t require a ticket. It’s easy to enjoy from the outside, and it sits close to other highlights, so you can build a strong self-guided route without spending money on transport.

If it’s closed when you arrive, you haven’t “lost” anything-take a few minutes for photos and context, then continue to nearby streets, viewpoints, or museums based on what fits your day.

FAQs for Visiting the Lead Mosque (Xhamia e Plumbit)

Getting There

It is in central Berat, positioned for an easy walk from the main streets and the riverside routes. Most visitors reach it naturally while moving between the historic quarters and the city centre.
Walk toward the central streets that connect Mangalem and Gorica with the modern core, then follow the flow of foot traffic toward the mosque area. You will often spot the minaret before you arrive.
A taxi is the easiest option if you want to save time, especially with luggage. If you prefer to walk, head toward the centre and follow the main roads that lead you into the core sightseeing area.
Parking is possible in the wider central area, but spaces can be limited and streets can feel tight. For this specific stop, walking or a short taxi ride is usually more efficient than trying to park right beside it.

Tickets & Entry

It is typically treated as a place of worship rather than a ticketed attraction, and visitors are generally welcomed when it’s appropriate. If there is a caretaker present, a small donation is a polite gesture rather than a requirement.
Advance booking is not usually part of the experience here. The main factor is timing-access can depend on local use and prayer periods.
Dress modestly and keep your voice low, even if the space feels quiet. If you enter, follow cues about shoes and where visitors should stand, and avoid interrupting anyone who is praying.

Visiting Experience

Do a full loop around the exterior and take time with the masonry and proportions, which are a large part of the appeal. Then fold the stop into a nearby mini-route so it still feels like a complete experience.
Yes, because it is central and quick, making it a high-value stop in a packed itinerary. It also adds cultural context that helps the rest of Berat’s historic sights make more sense.
Pair it with a walk through Mangalem and Gorica, then finish with a viewpoint or castle visit for the “big picture” of the city. This creates a satisfying loop with variety-architecture, streetscapes, and panoramas.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

It is often included as a central landmark because it sits naturally on the routes between major sights. Even without a guide, it is easy to position as a waypoint in a self-led walk.
A guide is most useful if you want deeper context on Ottoman Berat and how the city’s quarters developed. If you mainly want atmosphere and architecture, an independent visit works perfectly well.
Start near the river, cross between the historic quarters, stop at the mosque, then continue toward the lanes that climb toward the castle approaches. It keeps walking time efficient while covering Berat’s main visual character.

Photography

Yes, especially for architectural shots where the dome and minaret sit cleanly against the sky. The surrounding streets can be busy, so take a moment to find an angle that minimises traffic clutter.
Morning usually gives softer light and a calmer feel in the centre. Late afternoon can also be rewarding if you want warmer tones and a more atmospheric street scene.
If the interior is open, be discreet and avoid flash, especially if anyone is praying. When in doubt, a quick polite ask to a caretaker settles things immediately.

Accessibility & Facilities

The area around it is generally easier than many steep old-town climbs, but entry thresholds and historic surfaces can be limiting. If accessibility is a priority, it’s worth planning for an exterior-focused visit and choosing nearby routes with smoother paving.
Do not count on full visitor facilities at the mosque itself. Use nearby cafés or restaurants in the central area, which are close and practical.

Food & Breaks Nearby

The best option is to head back toward the central streets and riverside cafés where you can sit without rushing. Berat is at its best when you build these small pauses into your walking day.
Look for simple places serving byrek, grilled dishes, or a quick coffee near the centre before you continue to the castle area. It’s an easy way to keep your route efficient without a long detour.

Safety & Timing

Central Berat is generally relaxed in the evening, with locals out walking and cafés still active. Keep standard city awareness and watch traffic at crossings, which is often the main practical concern.
Early tends to feel calmer and more contemplative, which suits the setting. Later can feel livelier and works well if you want to link it with a dinner and riverside stroll.

Nearby Attractions to the Lead Mosque (Xhamia e Plumbit)

  • Bachelors’ Mosque: A smaller, richly decorated Ottoman-era mosque near the river that pairs well with a central walking loop.
  • Berat Castle: A dramatic hilltop fortress with panoramic views and layers of Byzantine and Ottoman history.
  • Mangalem Quarter: Berat's iconic “thousand windows” neighbourhood of stacked Ottoman-era houses and steep lanes.
  • Gorica Bridge: A classic stone bridge linking the historic quarters, especially photogenic in late-day light.
  • Onufri Iconographic Museum: A standout collection of icons inside a historic church within the castle complex.

The Lead Mosque appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Berat!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

Read our full story here

This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you!

Planning Your Visit

Hours:

Daily: 07:00-20:00.

Price:

Free

Address: Xhamia e Plumbit, Rruga e Tabakëve, Shkodër, Albania
Berat: 153 km

Nearby Attractions

Similar Blogs