Background

St. Paraskevi Church (Holy Friday) Çetë: A Testament to Faith and History

Discover St. Paraskevi Church in Çetë, a cultural monument with unique Gothic architecture and a rich history dating back to the 13th century.

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Nestled in the village of Çetë, near Kavajë, Albania, St. Paraskevi Church stands as a cultural monument, a testament to centuries of faith and history. Originally built in the 13th century as a Catholic Benedictine church, it transitioned to an Orthodox church in 1691. Its unique architecture and serene atmosphere make it a compelling site for those seeking historical and spiritual enrichment.

A brief summary to St. Paraskevi Church (Holy Friday) Çetë

  • 5HXF+JP3, Kavajë, AL

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy softer light for photography.
  • Dress modestly to show respect for the church's cultural and religious significance.
  • Take a moment to appreciate the peaceful natural surroundings of the church.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Kavajë, head east. The church is located approximately 1.5 kilometers from the city center. Follow the road signs directing you towards Çetë; the walk should take around 20-30 minutes. There are no specific costs associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    Take a local bus from Kavajë to Çetë. Buses run regularly throughout the day. Once in Çetë, follow the signs to the church. A short taxi ride from Kavajë to the church will cost approximately 300-500 ALL. Bus fares are generally inexpensive within the city.

  • Taxi

    From Kavajë city center, a taxi ride to St. Paraskevi Church is a quick and convenient option. Taxis are readily available. The ride should take approximately 10-15 minutes. Expect to pay around 300-500 ALL for the trip.

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Discover more about St. Paraskevi Church (Holy Friday) Çetë

St. Paraskevi Church, also known as Holy Friday Çetë, is a revered site located in the Kavajë Municipality of Albania. Designated a Cultural Monument of Albania in 1963, the church's history stretches back to the 13th century when it was constructed as a Catholic Benedictine church during the Kingdom of Albania. It is believed to be the only remaining church in Albania showcasing clear Gothic architecture from that era. In 1691, the church underwent a transformation into an Orthodox place of worship. During this period, the interior was adorned with frescoes painted by the Zografi Brothers, and it was further embellished with icons attributed to Kostandin Shpataraku from the 18th century. The church consists of the altar, the narthex, and the naos. The floor features a circular figure of the sun, a captivating detail that hints at pre-Christian sun worship traditions. Local legends add to the church's mystique. One story tells of three knights who, while traveling to Jerusalem, had a shared dream instructing them to build a church in Çetë. Another legend speaks of a young woman from Çetë who dedicated her life to God and asked her father to build a church where she could serve the needy. Despite facing challenges, including a fire in 1967 that damaged some frescoes, the church has endured, thanks to the local community's respect for its cultural and historical value. Today, St. Paraskevi Church offers visitors a serene environment, inviting contemplation and appreciation of its architectural beauty and spiritual significance.

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