Maligrad Island

Ishulli i Maligradit (Maligrad Island) is a small island in the Albanian section of Lake Prespa, within the municipality of Pustec. Despite covering only about 5 hectares, it is one of Albania's most distinctive natural and cultural landmarks thanks to its dramatic cliffs, cave church, and protected wildlife.

What makes it special?

The island rises steeply from the lake with rocky cliffs, caves, patches of woodland, and small beaches, creating a striking landscape in the heart of the Prespa basin. It forms part of Prespa National Park, an internationally important protected area known for its biodiversity, wetlands, and birdlife. The island itself provides habitat for wildlife while remaining a peaceful destination reached only by boat.

Highlights

One of the island's greatest attractions is St. Mary's Church, Maligrad, a medieval cave church built in 1369 by the nobleman Kesar Novak. Constructed beneath a rock overhang, the church preserves remarkable frescoes and inscriptions, while archaeological evidence indicates the island was used even earlier, including during the early Christian period.

Visiting

Most visitors reach the island by boat from Pustec on the southwestern shore of Lake Prespa. A visit typically combines the short boat ride with a walk to the church and viewpoints overlooking the lake, where Albania, North Macedonia, and Greece share one of Europe's oldest lakes. During summer, some visitors also stop at the island's small beaches for swimming.

Why it stands out

Maligrad Island is unusual because it combines natural scenery, medieval heritage, and ecological importance in a compact setting. Its isolation, historic cave church, and location within the transboundary Prespa ecosystem make it one of the most memorable destinations in southeastern Albania.