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"Metropolitan Cathedral of Korça" towards architectural restoration/ Reconstruction of the building in the final phase

2026-02-10 14:12:00, Kulturë CNA

"Metropolitan Cathedral of Korça" towards architectural

In the heart of Korça, where history and faith have intertwined for centuries, one of the most representative monuments of Orthodox heritage is being rebuilt from the ground up.

"Metropolitan Cathedral of Korça" towards architectural

The "Life-Giving Source" Church, widely known by citizens as the Metropolis of Korça, is today in a deep reconstruction process, aimed not only at restoring its religious function, but also at restoring its historical and architectural dignity.

"Metropolitan Cathedral of Korça" towards architectural

Built in the early 18th century, this magnificent cathedral has long been the spiritual center of the city, a symbol of identity and memory for entire generations of Korça residents. After years of use as a museum and various structural interventions, today the Metropolis of Korça is gradually returning to its original appearance and mission.

The works have now entered the final phase, where the main focus remains the exterior of the building, while the interior is nearing completion.

"Metropolitan Cathedral of Korça" towards architectural

"As you can see, the works are at a fairly advanced stage. The interior is almost finished. The majority of the work now remains on the exterior. There are some remains of the old building, which were additions for the needs of the museum, and they are also being demolished. An exterior part will also be demolished and then the plastering will begin. The roof is also left. We are in the process of building the dome as it was before, covered with lead sheets. The reconstruction of this church began after Easter 2019," said Father Mihal Sanellari.

The reconstruction of the Korça Metropolis is special not only for its historical value, but also for the way it is being carried out. The entire investment is being carried out with funds collected from the religious community and citizens, without direct support from external sources.

"Monsignor Joani, who was the metropolitan at the time, had such a vision. This is a symbolic church for the city, historically and spiritually for Korça. His vision was to build it with internal revenues. This object was realized with donations from within the country, from Korça residents and other believers, who contributed. It is a great value to build such an important object only with internal contributions. It is a signal that, if we want, we can all do a lot with a little," said Father Mihali.

"Metropolitan Cathedral of Korça" towards architectural

Throughout the reconstruction process, special care was taken to preserve the original identity of the church, respecting the architectural elements that have characterized it over the centuries.

"Undoubtedly, this is a value that restores the historical memory of the city, but also an added spiritual value for it, even more so when financed by internal contributions. We have tried to preserve the identity of the church as it was. The circular columns have been preserved in their original form. It used to be a different type of construction, mainly with a wooden structure and a little concrete. Today the structure is concrete, but the physiognomy of the building has remained the same," said Father Mihali.

"Metropolitan Cathedral of Korça" towards architectural

Another rare asset of the Metropolis of Korça is its rich collection of church objects, among which the historic iconostasis stands out, a unique work of art in wood dating back to 1720.

"We have the church iconostasis, which is a very beautiful piece of woodwork, dating back to around 1720. It is of unparalleled value and wherever it has been exhibited it has left an impression. We also have other church objects, mainly icons, which have been collected over the years. At the end of the works, the balcony can serve as an exhibition, to give these objects their real value," said Father Mihali.

Despite the high costs that such an intervention requires, the reconstruction of the Korça Metropolis is seen as a necessary investment for the preservation of the city's cultural and spiritual heritage. Its return to function is expected to be not only an important moment for the Orthodox community, but also a new impetus for cultural tourism in Korça ./CNA