These two fortified historic centres are remarkably well preserved, and this is particularly true of their vernacular buildings. Berat and Gjirokastra bear witness to a way of life which has been influenced over a long period by the traditions of Islam during the Ottoman period, while at the same time incorporating more ancient influences. This way of life has respected Orthodox Christian traditions which have thus been able to continue their spiritual and cultural development, particularly at Berat. Berat bears witness to a town which was fortified but open, and was over a long period inhabited by craftsmen and merchants. Criterion (iii) : Berat and Gjirokastra bear outstanding testimony to the diversity of urban societies in the Balkans, and to longstanding ways of life which have today almost vanished.