Overview:

: Located in the city of Përmet in Albania, the historic Saint Michael Church is a Roman Catholic parish church in the Archdiocese of Shkodër-Pult. The parish is part of the Albanian Latin Church, a branch of the Roman Catholic Church. The church was originally built in the late 19th century and has undergone several renovations since then. It is a large structure with a simple interior and features a central altar, curved pews and a marble floor. The church also houses several works of art, including a 15th-century crucifix. Additionally, the church grounds contain a bell tower, a rectory and several chapels. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Albania
Prominent Features:

• Built in 1809, Saint Michael Church in Përmet, Albania is a beautiful example of 18th-century Byzantine architecture. • The building has two floors – an upper and lower floor. The lower floor is a storeroom area and consists of an open room, a sacristy, and an isolated bell tower. The upper floor holds the main prayer hall, which is divided by four rows of wings and adorned with colorful frescoes of biblical scenes. • Adorning the exterior walls and the entrance are several large reliefs depicting scenes from the life of Christ and the Apostles. • The bell tower has been standing since 1826, and the church itself has been declared a Monument of Culture by the Albanian government. • The Church also houses a museum and a library, as well as a library containing historic documents. • Situated on a hilltop, Saint Michael Church overlooks the Përmet valley, providing an enchanting view for visitors. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Albania.

History:

The Saint Michael Church in Përmet, Albania is an Orthodox Christian Church located in the city of Përmet, Albania. It was first constructed in 1838, and was built in the Byzantine Revival style, with its bell tower built in the style of a Medieval fortress. The church has a long history and has undergone various changes throughout the years. The church was built by a priest named George Louis who was originally from the Greek city of Patras. He was hired by the local authorities of Përmet to build a church in the city and he chose the site on which the church stands today. A local legend states that when Louis was around 70 years old, he had a dream in which the Archangel Michael commanded him to build a limestone church on the site, which is the foundation for the church today. In the late 19th century, the church was renovated and expanded. The church now consists of a central nave, a smaller apse, a baptistery, and a bell tower. It features vivid wall frescos and stained-glass windows, as well as a beautiful wooden iconostasis that dates back to the 19th century. During World War II, the church served as a hiding place for Albanian refugees who were escaping persecution from the Nazis. In addition, the church held a school in which a number of local children were taught. Today, the Saint Michael Church is a popular tourist attraction in Përmet and is a reminder of the city’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors to the church can still admire the original frescoes, icons, and wooden carvings. The church also serves as a place of worship for the local Orthodox community and holds services throughout the year. Sources * http://www.visitpermet.net/church.html * http://www.travelalbanianow.com/attraction/churches/st-michael-church-permet/ * http://pap.al/permet-the-grace-of-the-snow-white-city/ Visit one of the famous monuments of Albania with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. Saint Michael Church, Përmet is the oldest church in Albania. 2. It was built in the 4th century and it is considered to be the oldest surviving church in the Balkans. 3. The church was dedicated to Saint Michael and was used as a monastery, where the monks worshipped the Archangel. 4. In 1858, the church was renovated and the frescos and icons of St. Michael, St. John the Baptist, and Virgin Mary were painted. 5. In 2007, after repairs, the church was opened to the public. 6. The church is part of the list of UNESCO World Heritages Sites of Albania. 7. Inside the church, there is a carved stone cross which is believed to have healing properties. One of the historical monuments of Albania, it tells the story of a bygone era