Resurrection of Christ Orthodox Cathedral, Orthodox cathedral in Tirana, Albania
The Resurrection of Christ Cathedral is an Albanian Orthodox church in central Tirana, designed by Steven P. Papadatos and Lizardos Engineering Associates. Its pale stone facade centres on a wide recessed arch with a blue glazed band, a gold cross and two gold wheat sheaves; inside, a pointed arch with pale panelled soffit and a round chandelier spans the nave above a band of white lattice stonework.
The cathedral was built in 2012, marking a turning point after decades when religious expression was suppressed by the state. Its construction demonstrated a shift toward religious freedom and gave the Orthodox community a place to rebuild its spiritual life.
The cathedral was opened on 24 June 2012, the twentieth anniversary of the revival of the Albanian Orthodox Church and of the election of Archbishop Anastasios of Albania, who designed and sculpted the bell tower. That tower is formed of four Paschal candles for the four Evangelists, joined around a central stair shaft that winds up to two open floors holding 16 bells, with a four-sided clock above them.
The interior layout is straightforward and easy to navigate from the main entrance, with multiple levels that allow you to explore different parts of the building. Plan enough time for an unhurried walk to appreciate the decorative details and artwork throughout the space.
The bell tower, designed and sculpted by Archbishop Anastasios, is formed of four Paschal candles standing for the four Evangelists who proclaimed the Resurrection. They meet around a central stair shaft that winds up to two open floors holding 16 bells, with a four-sided clock above them. The tower reaches 46 metres, higher than the cathedral's 32.2-metre dome.
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