Shkodër Cathedral, Romanesque Revival cathedral in Shkodër, Albania
Shkodër Cathedral is a Romanesque Revival structure that stretches 74 meters long and 50 meters wide, built entirely from red brick. A central tower rises 23 meters above the surrounding city, making the building visible from many parts of town.
Construction began in 1858 and finished in 1867, when Ottoman authorities first permitted such a large Catholic building in the region. This approval marked a turning point for the local Catholic community after years of restrictions.
The cathedral took on enormous significance for Shkodër's Catholic community, who saw it as a visible symbol of their faith and identity in a predominantly Muslim region. Families continue to gather here for major religious celebrations, maintaining traditions that connect them to generations of worshippers who passed through these same brick walls.
The interior is spacious enough to hold several thousand people, making it suitable for large gatherings and special occasions. The building is easy to locate since its tall brick structure stands out from many points around town.
During communist rule from 1967 to 1990, the building was repurposed as a sports hall, temporarily losing its religious role. This unusual chapter in its history shows how the structure endured despite changing political demands.
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