Overview:

Saint Mary Church, Shkodër is a Catholic church located in the city of Shkodër, Albani. It is one of the oldest and most important religious structures in the country and is a symbol of faith in the surrounding area. The church was originally constructed in the 15th century, however in the 19th century it underwent a major renovation in which its facade was altered and its interior was modernized. The church features a large Gothic-style bell tower, which stands at over 60 feet tall, and the main building is adorned with ornate décor and stained glass windows. It is often visited by local residents and tourists alike, as it continues to be a spiritual and cultural hub for the region. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Albania
Prominent Features:

1. Beautiful façade with Baroque and Neo-Gothic elements 2. Local pink marble details 3. Three bell towers 4. Statue of Mary and Jesus 5. Domes and pointed arches 6. Painted frescoes inside the church 7. Large bronze door 8. Ornately carved altar 9. Elaborate chandeliers 10. Chandelier above the main entrance with four bronze statues 11. Intricate stained glass windows 12. Intricately carved wood doors 13. Stone columns You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Albania.

History:

Saint Mary Church is a Roman Catholic church located in Shkodër, Albania. It was built between 1806 and 1812. Initially constructed as the first Catholic church in Albania, it is now the oldest functioning Roman Catholic structure in the country. The church was built in the wake of freedom of religion in Albania, declared in 1806, which allowed the reopening of Catholic churches across the country that had been previously closed by Islamic law since the Ottoman conquest in the 15th century. The building was designed and constructed in a neoclassical style and remains one of the most recognisable monuments of the city. It underwent considerable renovations and expansions in 1895 and 1913 and this is when it gained many of its distinctive features, such as the symbolic statue of the Madonna and Child at the main entrance, and the ornate Corinthian columns framing the main facade. In 2013, the city of Shkodër further celebrated its landmark church’s 200th anniversary by introducing a full exhibition detailing its extensive history and cultural importance to the city. The Saint Mary Church and its grounds have also been host to numerous significant cultural gatherings, such as the ‘Peace in Europe’ celebration of June 1911 where important politicians, including former Italian prime minister Francesco Crispi, and religious figures took part in a mass celebrating peace in Europe. The event was of particular importance to the country, as it was celebrated during a time when the Albanian struggle for independence from the Ottoman Empire was stronger than ever. Today, Saint Mary Church is a culturally significant centre for the Catholic faith and Shkodër’s diverse cultural heritage. Organised ceremonies and celebrations draw people of all faiths from around the world. It is a major contributor to the city’s economic growth, helping with the development of Shkodër’s commercial and tourist industries. While it has come to be seen as one of the most important landmarks in Shkodër, the Saint Mary Church has come to symbolise much more than just a religious monument. In recent years it has become a symbol of unity, tolerance and peace for people of all backgrounds, religions and faiths, reflecting the powerful spirit of Shkodër. Visit one of the famous monuments of Albania with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. Saint Mary Church, Shkodër, is one of Albania’s oldest and most important churches. It is believed to have been built by the Roman, who may have established it as early as the 4th century. 2. The church was enlarged in 1770, and is known for its unique teardrop shaped dome and several other smaller domes. 3. The church also houses several important relics and artifacts, including treasures from the Franciscan Order, which include an image of St. Mary from the late 13th century. 4. The church is the setting for St. Mary's Day celebrations, which are held on August 15, and considered one of the most important Roman Catholic feasts in the region. 5. The church also features beautiful frescoes from the 19th century that depict various saints and heroes of the Catholic faith. 6. Inside the church is a unique 15th-century silver crucifix that is believed to possess a miraculous quality. One of the historical monuments of Albania, it tells the story of a bygone era