Monastery of St Nikolla

One of the Best Places To Visits in Kranë Frequently mentioned in reviews: Top-rated.online cuts through the clutter, highlighting only the reviews that are most helpful, earn the most likes, or come from the most active contributors. Closed building March2025, nobody around, all by yourself. Gratis. Gate is open, come in and walk around. Park down by the paved road (by the sign, see photo) and go left up the hill. The road is bad, but not terrible, drive if you must. No place to park up there, or anywhere, side of the road. Nobody's around, no matter. Decent but small church, obviously getting near collapse (steel bands and steel structure holding up stone column). Right beside a modern cemetery (Greek) with very fancy stone work. St. Nicholas (Shën Kolli) in Mesopotam, Albania, is an extraordinary site with a rich and several intriguing features. Here are some of the most interesting facts: 1. **Byzantine Architecture**: The was originally built in the 13th century during the Byzantine era and is a prime example of Byzantine architecture in Albania. Its layout and design resemble that of many Orthodox churches from this period. 2. **Monastery Origins**: It was once part of a larger complex. Although much of the has disappeared over the centuries, the remains a significant landmark. 3. **Fortified Structure**: Unusually, the has fortress-like walls, which served as protection against potential invaders during medieval times. This dual function of a religious and defensive structure makes it stand out. 4. **Intricate Frescoes**: Inside, the houses remnants of beautiful frescoes, many of which date back to its original construction. These frescoes are representative of Byzantine religious art, with depictions of saints and biblical scenes. 5. **Restoration by Ali Pasha**: In the early 19th century, the famous Albanian ruler Ali Pasha of Tepelena is said to have restored the church. Ali Pasha was known for his efforts to preserve historic religious structures, even though he was a Muslim ruler. 6. **Iconography and Religious Importance**: St. Nicholas has been an important religious site for Orthodox Christians in the region, with its dedication to St. Nicholas, the patron saint of sailors and travelers, adding to its spiritual significance. 7. **Cultural Heritage Site**: It is listed as a Cultural Monument in Albania, which highlights its historical and architectural importance. These elements make St. Nicholas in Mesopotam a fascinating blend of religion, art, and history. The of Saint Nicolas is a hidden gem worth every step of the journey—but here’s a tip to make it smoother! Follow Google Maps until you reach the gate, but don’t take the right turn it suggests—that’s a dead end. Instead, go through the gate, pass the cemetery, and keep following the wall. The first entrance might be closed, but keep going—you’ll find the second entrance to this charming little monastery. Small but full of character, it’s a peaceful spot with a serene vibe, perfect for a moment of reflection and admiration. A true delight for the soul and the camera! Small but beautifully ancient. Built in the 13th century, it reflects Byzantine architecture and has served as a religious site for centuries. The is known for its intricate stone carvings and historical significance as a spiritual center in the region. 11th century and grave yard by it's side. Calm, clean, not very touristy yet. Free entrance, candles were burning inside, you may look at the old art. Sinc not very touristy, has it's pros and cons: no bathrooms or services, like a cafe A worthwhile stop on the way to Blue Eye! The of Saint Nicholas is a well-preserved gem of Byzantine architecture. I stopped by on the way to Blue Eye, and it’s definitely worth a short visit. Unfortunately, the interior is currently undergoing restoration and is closed for visits, but the exterior of the building is free to explore. We visited this as part of our day trip around Sarande neighboring towns. What I found absolutely fascinating is that historically, this provided both Catholic and Orthodox rites. How often do you find that? A place that served two different Christian traditions! It speaks volumes about the historical tolerance and cultural mix that existed in Albania. It’s a proper testament to how different communities can coexist. Then, as would have it, when the Ottoman empire colonised the country, this place was converted into a mosque. To think, prayers from completely different faiths have echoed within the same building across the centuries. It's a stark reminder of the ever-changing landscape of and belief. Now, fair warning, the is a bit... well, let's say it's showing its age. But that’s part of its appeal, in a way. It's a tangible piece of history, worn down by time and the elements. However, just like many things in Albania, this place is thankfully in the process of restoration. It's wonderful to see that efforts are being made to preserve this important part of Albania's cultural heritage. Hopefully, in the future, it will be restored to its former glory, but for now, its rugged charm is undeniably captivating. It's a reminder of the resilience of Albanian culture and its determination to preserve its for future generations. Seeing the restoration work in progress gave us a real sense of hope and optimism. If you're looking for a polished, pristine tourist attraction, this might not be for you. But if you're interested in history, culture, and a bit of off-the-beaten-path exploration, then I highly recommend a visit to the of St. Nikolas. Beautiful in Mesopotam – a name that, though similar to ancient Mesopotamia, simply refers to its location "between rivers." Peaceful, historic place that would benefit from more information on-site. Website change monitoring Monitor any webpage for changes – get instant email alerts when prices drop, new jobs are posted, products come back in stock, or competitors update their sites.