Mbreti Mosque

Mbreti Mosque, also known as (Hünkâr Camii), Hynqar Mosque or Sultan Mosque, is an indisputable treasure of cultural heritage in the city of Berat. This mosque, declared a cultural monument since 1948, is part of the Islamic Center complex and one of the most important and popular mosques in the city.

The mosque was built at the end of the 15th century by Sultan Bayezit II, and has since served as a holy place for the faithful and a testament to the Ottoman architectural legacy in this city rich in history.

The prayer hall of the mosque is notable for its skillfully painted details. The massive ceiling of the prayer hall is a remarkable work of craftsmanship, including the wide two-story mafil supported on wooden pillars. The mihrap on the end wall and the mimber on the right side of the mihrap add to the beauty and decorative structure of the mosque. The rosette located in the center of the ceiling contains inscriptions of various Quranic sayings, while a frieze below the ceiling displays the 99 beautiful names of God (Allah).

The open portico that precedes the prayer hall is another important architectural element. This portico has its own ceiling and a mihrab on the northern wall, making it possible to pray in this space as well. Built at the end of the 18th century by Usta Dush Barka, the portico embraces an arcade supported on stone columns, making it an important part of the architectural complex.

The minaret of the mosque, a characteristic element of Muslim constructions, has its upper part reconstructed, while the base is realized with the Clausonage technique, an indication of the period of the original construction in the 15th century.

The Mbreti Mosque is not only a holy place for believers, but also a rich testimony of cultural and architectural heritage in the city of Berat, making it an attractive destination for visitors.