Berat National Iconographic Museum 'Onufri'
Berat
The Onufri Iconographic Museum, located within the Church of the Dormition of St Mary in Berat's castle quarter, is a national museum dedicated to Byzantine art and Albanian iconography. Named after the renowned 16th-century Albanian painter Onufri, the museum houses 173 selected objects from a larger collection of over 1500 items originating from Albanian churches and monasteries. Its collection features 106 icons and 67 liturgical objects created by celebrated painters such as Onufri, his son Nikola, Onouphrios Cypriotes, David Selenica, Kostandin Shpataraku, and the Çetiri family, spanning from the 14th to the 20th century. The museum is housed in a church rebuilt in 1797, exemplifying post-Byzantine architecture, and includes three main exhibition halls displaying the finest works. Visitors can admire iconic pieces such as Onufri's "Mary and Child," Nikola's depiction of Apostle Saint Peter, and Kostandin Shpataraku's 18th-century paintings. The museum also preserves an array of textiles and metal objects that reflect the high artisanal traditions of the Berat region. This institution offers a unique insight into Albania's rich religious and artistic heritage, making it a cultural landmark in Berat.
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Astuce: The best time to visit the Onufri Iconographic Museum is during the warmer months from May to October when the museum is open daily from 9 am to 7 pm. From mid-October to April, it operates Tuesday to Sunday with shorter hours. Booking tickets in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons. Visitors can benefit from available discounts for students and groups. The museum is located within Berat Castle, so comfortable footwear is advised for exploring the area.
Faits intéressants
- •The museum is named after Onufri, a 16th-century Albanian master icon painter renowned for his vivid colors and detailed religious imagery.
- •The church housing the museum was rebuilt in 1797 and serves as a significant example of post-Byzantine architecture in Berat.
- •The collection includes icons by Onufri's son Nikola, who painted notable religious figures such as Emperor Constantine I and his mother Helena.
- •The museum holds 173 objects selected from a larger pool of over 1500 artifacts gathered from Albanian churches and monasteries.
- •Some icons displayed in the museum originally adorned the iconostasis of the church, painted by Joan Çetri.
Histoire
The Onufri Iconographic Museum was established in 1986 within the Church of the Dormition of St Mary, which was rebuilt in 1797 on the site of an older church.
The museum honors Onufri, a prominent 16th-century Albanian icon painter, whose works significantly influenced Albanian religious art.
Over centuries, the church served as the cathedral of Berat and is a prime example of post-Byzantine architecture.
The museum's collection has been curated from over 1500 artifacts sourced from across Albanian churches and monasteries, preserving centuries of iconographic tradition from the 14th to the 20th century.
Guide du lieu
Church of the Dormition of St Mary1797
The historical church rebuilt in 1797, showcasing post-Byzantine architectural style and serving as the museum's main building, including the central hall and altar area.
Main Exhibition Halls
Three main halls within the museum displaying 173 selected objects, including 106 icons and 67 liturgical artifacts from the 14th to 20th centuries by prominent Albanian painters.
Iconostasis and Liturgical Objects19th century
The iconostasis features icons painted by Joan Çetri, complemented by displayed textiles and metal liturgical objects representing Berat's artisanal heritage.
Contact
Téléphone: 032 232 224
