Restoration of Voskopojë’s historic churches underway to boost cultural tourism

Specialists from the National Institute of Cultural Heritage (IKTK) are conducting field expeditions to oversee and advise on restoration interventions at the churches of St. Mary, St. Michael, and the Monastery of St. Prodromos in Voskopojë.

Why is this important: The conservation efforts in Voskopojë are set to boost tourism by preserving its historic churches and monasteries. These restored sites will attract both local and international visitors, showcasing the region’s rich cultural and religious heritage. As tourism grows, it will help support the local economy while ensuring these cultural treasures are protected for future generations.

In collaboration with the Regional Directorate of Cultural Heritage Korça, the restoration project focuses on conserving the mural paintings and iconostases. This is part of a larger initiative aimed at enhancing the region’s cultural tourism potential through interventions at the cultural heritage sites of Voskopojë.

Architectural significance of the Church of St. Michael

Among the most significant churches in Voskopojë is the Church of St. Michael, completed in 1722. This basilica-style church features a unique structure with three naves, separated by rows of columns, creating a central nave and two side aisles. These columns are interconnected with arches in both directions. The naves are topped with domes, each of which is distinct from the others. The variability in design is also reflected in the floor plan, where the eastern apse projects outward and is treated with pilasters.

The narthex is located at the western end of the church and does not differ significantly from the naos in terms of construction. It is supported by stone columns with arches and domes. However, unlike the naos, the narthex does not have any aisles, and all of its coverings are square-cornered domes at the same height. The church’s veranda is no longer present, having been destroyed many years ago, though traces of it can still be seen today.

In 1996, the church was severely vandalized, with 23 paintings of saints damaged beyond repair. Today, restoration efforts continue to preserve and protect this important cultural and religious site.