The Resurrection of Christ Orthodox Cathedral is the main cathedral of the Orthodox Autocephalous Church of Albania, completed in 2012 a few minutes’ walk from Skanderbeg Square. From outside it looks strikingly modern; inside, the gold mosaics, icons and marble iconostasis are the reason to go.
| Quick facts | |
|---|---|
| Where | Rruga Ibrahim Rugova 1, opposite the House of Leaves (Google Maps) |
| Hours | Usually open daily from morning to early evening, with a midday break |
| Price | Free |
| Time needed | 20–30 minutes |
The cathedral is a symbol of how far Albania has come since 1967, when the communist regime banned religion and closed or destroyed churches and mosques. The Orthodox Church was rebuilt from almost nothing after 1991, largely under Archbishop Anastasios, and this cathedral, with its large central dome, separate bell tower and cultural center, was its flagship project.
Go inside to see the iconography, which is still being added to, and the big iconostasis. Dress modestly and keep your voice down if a service is on. The church shop sells icons and Orthodox souvenirs.
The cathedral was consecrated in June 2012 in the presence of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, and it is often described as one of the largest Orthodox churches in the Balkans. Its busiest night of the year is Orthodox Easter, when crowds holding candles fill the courtyard and surrounding streets for the midnight Resurrection service and the shout of “Krishti u ngjall!” (Christ is risen). Christmas, Epiphany and other major feast days also bring large services led by the Archbishop, often with a full Byzantine choir. Outside the big holidays, the Divine Liturgy is held every Sunday morning, and the cultural center next door hosts exhibitions, concerts and lectures throughout the year.
Across the street is the House of Leaves, the museum of communist-era surveillance. Seeing both together tells you a lot about what changed in 1991.
