Visit Saint Mary's Cave Church on Maligrad Island, Lake Prespa

Updated 2026-11-02 · 4 min read · Prices and schedules change — check locally.

How to visit Maligrad Island

Travel to the village of Pustec (Liqenas) on the western shore of Great Prespa Lake.
Inquire at the village waterfront or local cafes to hire a local fisherman or boatman for the crossing.
Take the boat across the lake to the island's landing place, allowing around 10–30 minutes depending on the boat and route.
Follow the path up the limestone cliffs to the church entrance located inside the cave.

What is the history of the Maligrad cave church?

The church of Saint Mary dates to 1344–1345 and was renovated in 1368–1369 by Kesar Novak, a local Serbian nobleman.

The structure is built directly into a high cliff cavern on the island's southern side. It served as a spiritual retreat and features three phases of frescoes: works from 1345 and 1369, with further painting added in the 17th century. The interior depicts various saints, while the western façade portrays Kesar Novak and his family.

Feature	Detail
Construction Date	1344–1345 AD; renovated 1368–1369
Renovation Patron	Kesar Novak
Location	Southern cliff cave
Island Name	Maligrad (meaning Small City)

How do you get to Maligrad Island?

The island is reachable by private boat from Pustec, located about 25km from Korçë.

There is no scheduled ferry service to the island. Visitors typically arrange a round-trip passage with local residents in Pustec who operate small motorboats. The drive to Pustec follows a paved road through the national park, providing scenic views of the surrounding mountains.

What is the best time to visit Lake Prespa?

The best time to visit is from May to September when the weather is generally warmer, though lake conditions can still be windy.

During the summer months, the lake is suitable for swimming and birdwatching. In winter, the area can experience heavy snow and freezing temperatures, which may make boat crossings difficult or impossible due to wind and visibility.

What are the costs and practical requirements for a visit?

There is no official entrance fee for the island, but visitors must pay for the boat transport.

A private return boat trip costs around 2,000–3,000 Lek for 1–5 people; agree the price and visit duration before departure. It is advisable to bring water and sun protection as there are no facilities on the island. The walk from the landing place to the church follows a short uphill path; wear shoes suitable for rocky ground.

Is Maligrad Island significant for wildlife?

Yes, Maligrad Island and Lake Prespa are vital habitats for rare birds, including the Dalmatian Pelican.

The island's limestone cliffs provide nesting sites for various bird species. The surrounding Great Prespa Lake is one of the oldest tectonic lakes in the world and forms part of the Ohrid-Prespa Transboundary Biosphere Reserve shared by Albania and North Macedonia.