Background

St. Paraskevi Church (Holy Friday) Çetë: A Gothic-Roman Treasure

Discover St. Paraskevi Church in Çetë, a rare Gothic-Roman monument with a rich history, blending Catholic and Orthodox traditions in a serene setting.

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St. Paraskevi Church, located in Çetë, Kavajë, is a cultural monument of Albania. Dating back to the 13th century, it showcases unique Gothic-Roman architecture. Originally a Catholic Benedictine church, it was transformed into an Orthodox church in 1691, enriched with frescoes and icons.

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

  • 5HXF+JP3, Kavajë, AL

Local tips

  • Explore the church grounds to appreciate the blend of architectural styles and the peaceful surroundings.
  • Look for the circular sun figure on the floor, a unique element reflecting pre-Christian traditions.
  • Learn about the local legends surrounding the church's construction for a deeper connection to its history.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Kavajë city center, head east, following local road signs towards Çetë. The drive is approximately 5km and should take about 15 minutes. Parking is limited near the church; consider parking in the village and walking the final distance. There are no tolls or special access fees.

  • Public Transport

    From Kavajë, local buses or furgons (minibuses) travel to Çetë. Check with locals at the Kavajë bus station for the most up-to-date schedule and departure point. The ride is short, and the fare is typically around 50-100 Lek. From the center of Tirana, you can take a bus to Kavajë for approximately 59 minutes. Tisa Travel operates this route twice daily.

  • Walking

    While walking from Kavajë to Çetë is possible, it's a considerable distance (approximately 5km) and may take over an hour. The route involves walking along roads, so be mindful of traffic. Once in Çetë, the church is located on a hill and is easily accessible by foot.

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

Nestled in the village of Çetë, the St. Paraskevi Church, also known as Holy Friday Çetë, stands as a testament to Albania's rich religious and cultural history. Declared a Cultural Monument of Albania in 1963, this 13th-century church is a rare example of Gothic-Roman architecture in the region. Initially constructed as a Catholic Benedictine church during the Kingdom of Albania, the church transitioned to an Orthodox place of worship in 1691. During this period, the interior was adorned with frescoes by the Zografi Brothers and sixteen icons by Kostandin Shpataraku. While a fire in 1967 damaged many frescoes, the church's structure, comprising the altar, narthex, and naos, remains intact. Of particular interest is the circular sun figure on the floor, a remnant of pre-Christian sun worship. Local legends add to the church's mystique, with tales of knights who built the church after a shared vision and a young woman who dedicated her life to God within its walls. Despite the destruction of religious buildings during Albania's atheist period, the St. Paraskevi Church was spared, thanks to the protection of local residents. Today, the church attracts visitors with its serene atmosphere and historical significance.

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