Overview:

Saint Michael's Church, Vuno In Albania is a small, ancient Orthodox church located in a small village of Vuno, in the region of Himara, Albania. It is believed to have been built in the thirteenth century, and is one of the oldest churches in the country, with some of its parts dating to earlier times; it is characterized by its large dome and simple construction. Its interior is adorned with frescoes of the saints and it is considered an important cultural and religious heritage. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Albania
Prominent Features:

• Gothic-style architecture • Located on a hilltop overlooking the Adriatic Sea • Constructed in 1272 as a basilica • Architectural elements include three naves, a cylindrical bell tower, and a large rose window • Located in Vuno, a small seaside village • Considered a cultural monument and attracts visitors from all around the world You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Albania.

History:

Saint Michael Orthodox Church of Vuno is believed to have been built in the 13th century, though its exact origin is uncertain. It is believed to have been the site of numerous miracles, such as preventing an avalanche from causing any casualties in the late 16th century. The present building was constructed in 1790, though its original shape is unknown. The church suffered major damages during the communist rule in the 20th century, and was completely abandoned when Albania declared its independence in the early 1990s. By the late 1990s the church had been restored and it started to serve again, with a newly constructed bell tower. In 2005 the church celebrated its 800 year anniversary. The church is one of the main attractions of the village of Vuno, and hosts numerous festivals and religious events each year. It also provides a major venue for weddings and baptisms. During religious days, large crowds of Orthodox believers come to the church to witness such events. Visit one of the famous monuments of Albania with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. Saint Michael's Church in Vuno, Albania, is the only surviving example of a Byzantine-style church from the 1300s in the country. 2. It was constructed primarily of brick and stone, and was built by the Latin Mirdita tribe of the north of Albania. 3. The church was listed as a protected cultural monument in the early 1920s. 4. An inscription on the exterior of the church reveals it was built by a nobleman in the late 1300s, and dedicated to the Archangel Michael. 5. It is often said that the church was built to protect the inhabitants of Vuno from invasion by the Ottoman forces. 6. The frescos inside the church were painted in the early 1600s, and are considered one of the most important works of art in the country. 7. Experts believe the architecture of the church is a rare example of Byzantine style of the time, and the frescos are unique, highly detailed and vary in style and content. 8. The church is respected for its spirituality and its historical importance in the country. One of the historical monuments of Albania, it tells the story of a bygone era