Overview:

Saint Mary’s Church is a large medieval Byzantine-style Orthodox church located in the city of Delvinë in southern Albania. It is believed to have been built sometime between the 12th and 14th centuries and is renowned for its complex architecture, intricate stone carved decorations, and its beautifully preserved frescoes. It is a significant historic monument in the country, along with its Byzantine-style churches found mainly in the south of Albania. It is also a place of pilgrimage for many Orthodox Christians in the area, particularly during the months of May and June. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Albania
Prominent Features:

, the small city of Delvinë is home to Saint Mary's Church, a 14th-century Byzantine-style church that serves as an important religious site and a symbolic reminder of the area's rich history. The church is a simple, single-nave building with three apses, with a pitch roof, a belltower, and a low narthex. The exterior of the church is white-washed, with the exception of its red roof and a simple portal featuring a floral relief. The interior of the church is decorated with beautiful frescoes, including a famous depiction of the Crucifixion of Christ, which dates from the 16th century. The painting is classical in its composition, with rich colors and details. The church is also home to a collection of religious artifacts, including icons, crosses, and icons which are attributed to the 16th and 17th centuries. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Albania.

History:

Saint Mary's Church, Delvinë is the oldest Catholic Church in Albania. It is believed to have been built in the late thirteenth century by the Franciscans who occupied the region of Delvina. The church was used by the Franciscans until early 14th century when, under Ottoman rule, the Catholic population of Delvina began to be persecuted. The Church was destroyed during the anti-Roman Catholic violence that followed the Reformation in the 16th century. After Albania became an independent nation in 1912, religious freedoms were granted to minority religions and the Church was slowly restored. In 1948 the Church was restored and declared a sanctuary and in 1961 it was declared a monument of national importance. The Church is painted externally in crimson and ochre and is in the Gothic style. Inside, it offers a variety of decorations such as frescoes and sculptures from the late fifteen and early sixteen century. This includes the statue of Saint Mary, which stands near the entrance of the Church. Today Saint Mary's Church is still operational and still serves as a sanctuary for Delvinë locals. The Church also organizes other events including concerts and public lectures on Christianity. It also participates in the traditional annual festival of Agni, a prayer of growth to the ancient gods. Saint Mary's Church is an important part of Delvinë's culture, history and heritage and has become a symbol of strength and courage for the people of Delvinë. The Church continues to be a place of prayer, reflection and beauty today and continues to be a place of safe haven for Catholics and visiting Christians from around the world. The Church is also a popular tourist attraction for visitors from around the globe that come to experience its history and culture. The importance of Saint Mary's Church to Delvinë's people and to its visitors alike cannot be overstated. Its history and remarkable survival through centuries of challenges serves as an inspiring reminder that faith and fortitude can truly triumph over adversity. Visit one of the famous monuments of Albania with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. The original Church of Saint Mary's was constructed in 1737, making it one of the oldest churches in Albania. 2. Saint Mary's Church became a major centre of Ottoman tolerance and interfaith cooperation during the time of the Ottoman rule in Albania. 3. The Church of St Mary's is considered a national monument of Albania and has been featured in several movies and documentaries. 4. The Church of St Mary's was constructed in a single day with the use of specially handmade nails. 5. Due to its unique design, the Church of St Mary's is one of only two churches in Albania that has not been destroyed in a major earthquake. 6. The Church of St Mary's contains a number of religious relics, including a piece of the True Cross, a piece of cloth said to have been worn by Mary at Christ’s burial, and the remains of several martyrs. 7. Since its construction, the Church of St Mary's has undergone several renovations. The latest renovation took place in 2017. One of the historical monuments of Albania, it tells the story of a bygone era