St. Michael’s Church (Kisha e Shën Mëhillit)

Church in Berat

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Foto: my_cottage

St. Michael’s Church (Kisha e Shën Mëhillit) is a modest yet captivating Byzantine-era chapel perched on a steep cliffside just south of Berat’s Kalaja district. Built in the 14th century and dedicated to the archangel Michael, it forms part of the UNESCO-listed Historic Centres of Berat and Gjirokastër. The church’s cruciform design, dome on drum, and red brick-and-stone façade reflect the architectural elegance of its time. Though small in scale, it offers a serene atmosphere, with a simple but beautiful iconostasis and traces of frescoes that hint at its spiritual past. What adds to its charm are the grottoes just outside, where believers have placed icons and votive candles, creating a quiet space for reflection.

For a stunning view of the Gorica Quarter, a short but steep hike to the church is well worth the effort. Embedded in the cliffside, the path is uneven and best avoided in the early morning when the sun can be blinding. The panoramic view of Gorica’s traditional houses from the church is impressive, especially in softer afternoon light. However, the experience can be marred by inconsistent visitor management. Some travelers have reported discomfort with the caretaker’s insistence on receiving money directly, rather than through the designated donation box. While the church is a cultural monument, such encounters can detract from its otherwise peaceful and spiritual ambiance.

Finding the path to St. Michael’s Church requires a bit of local navigation. It cannot be accessed from the castle; instead, start from the riverside near Gorica Bridge. Head along the main street, turn right up the stairs before LUNDRA Fast Food, pass Timo’s Guest House, and continue along the alleyway that eventually becomes a dirt track. The church is officially open in the morning, but the surrounding area remains accessible throughout the day. Even after 1pm, visitors can follow loose gravel paths to enjoy spectacular views and soak in the quiet beauty of this hilltop sanctuary.

The St. Michael’s Church (Kisha e Shën Mëhillit) appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Berat!

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