Water Tank

Known by the locals as “Sarandja”, the Water Cistern represents one of the most important structures of the internal infrastructure in the Acropolis of the Berat Castle. Built around the 12th century, this cistern served to collect and store rainwater, guaranteeing the water supply of the inhabitants and the garrison in cases of siege or lack of external sources.

Located at the highest point of the citadel, in the heart of the acropolis, its construction intelligently exploits the slope of the hill to collect and store water. Although only ruins remain today, the dimensions of the structure and the breadth of the interior space

testify to a considerable storage capacity and to the engineering skills of the time.

The cistern is built with large hewn stones, bound with limestone mortar and reinforced with covered arches, for stability and moisture retention. The semi-subterranean form and construction techniques have enabled the preservation of low temperatures and the protection of the water from evaporation or pollution.

Despite its current fragmented state, “Sarandja” remains a valuable testament to the civil and defensive infrastructure of medieval Albanian cities, and one of the most significant stops for visitors exploring the historic fortress of Berat.