The city of Berat sits among one of the most desirable touristic attractions, where only last year were registered 140,000 tourists. A considerable interest for the area addresses to its authenticity, history and architectonic values, which have raised interest among internationals and it should be presented in the best possible conditions, and above everything else protect old buildings.

In this context, the considerable number of tourists makes it necessary the systemization and restoration of public areas in the historic neighbourhood in order to serve both tourists and community. The project is part of the Program ‘Integrated and Tourism Development’, funded by the World Bank.

The intervention includes the arrangement of characteristic cobbled alleys and squares of the historic neighbourhood, the rehabilitation of the road and the public landscape space along the river as well as the restoration of the facades and surrounding walls along the alleys.

 Currently, 60% of work is completed.

60%
Through this investment, Albanian Development Fund intends to improve living conditions of inhabitants and increase economic growth based on the development of local tourism in urban areas.

 “The Gorica neighbourhood is one of the emblematic spaces in the city and it wasn’t invested for quite a long time in it. The implementation of the project adds a pedestrian, which will turn it out into the main attraction, but also it will show up its historic values” explained the Major of Berat Mr. Ervin Demo.

“In addition, it should be highlighted that “in the century XVII, the neighbourhood counted 200 houses, while nowadays its architectonics as well as the two other neighbourhoods have undergone through deep reconstruction after the devastating earthquake of 1851. Some apartments and gates, on their foreheads bear the exact dating of the reconstruction period, more specifically corresponding to the second half of the XIX century”.

The main directions that the works are taking place are as follows:

  • P01 - Restoration of the historic urban landscape of the Gorica neighborhood;
  • P03 - Rehabilitation of the Gorica Castle path and creation of tourist potentials close to the monument;
  • P04 – Establishment of a parking lot close to the Gorica Bridge.

Already, a new urban attraction is added in function of inhabitants’ needs along the Osum River, emphasizing on the beauty of nature and features of historic landmarks.