Lead Mosque (Xhamia e Plumbit)

Mosque in Berat

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Planeti

The Lead Mosque (Xhamia e Plumbit) in Berat is one of Albania’s most distinguished examples of Ottoman religious architecture. Built in 1553–1554 by Ahmet Bej Uzgurliu, a local nobleman, the mosque takes its name from the lead that once coated its dome, giving it a distinctive appearance and symbolic identity. Located on Rruga Gaqi Gjika in the heart of Berat, the mosque has served as a spiritual and cultural landmark for centuries, reflecting the city’s rich Islamic heritage and its historical role as a crossroads of civilizations.

Architecturally, the mosque features a square prayer hall with a northern portico and a tall, slender minaret that rises gracefully from the roof. The minaret is notable for its cloisonné-style molding, a rare decorative technique in Albanian mosque design. Inside, the hall is illuminated by numerous windows that create a serene and airy atmosphere, ideal for prayer and contemplation. Historical accounts, including those by the Ottoman explorer Evliya Çelebi, describe the mosque as part of a larger complex that once included a madrasa, bazaar, Turkish bath, and charitable kitchen, though these structures have not survived.

The mosque’s cultural significance has been recognized through its designation as a Cultural Monument of Albania. In 2014, it underwent a careful restoration led by the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA), which helped preserve its structural integrity and aesthetic details. This restoration not only safeguarded the building’s historical value but also revitalized its role as an active place of worship and a point of interest for visitors exploring Berat’s UNESCO-listed old town.

Today, the Lead Mosque stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Ottoman architecture in Albania and the layered history of Berat itself. Its elegant design, historical depth, and spiritual function make it a compelling destination for those interested in religious heritage, art, and Albanian culture. Whether viewed from the outside or experienced within, the mosque offers a quiet yet powerful glimpse into the past, seamlessly woven into the fabric of a living city.

The Lead Mosque (Xhamia e Plumbit) appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Berat!

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