15 August is the Feast of the Dormition of Mary. Christians mark this day as the moment Mary joined her son in eternal life. The feast is also called the “Assumption” or “Marrja.” It celebrates Mary’s death, resurrection, and glorification.

The celebration follows two weeks of fasting. It shows that Mary was taken by God into the heavenly kingdom, body and soul.

The Orthodox Autocephalous Church of Albania publishes a calendar of celebrations in all churches and monasteries. Frescoes in many churches depict the Dormition, the Nativity of Mary, and her Entry into the Temple.

Catholic Christians worldwide also celebrate the Assumption of Mary. In Albania, she is known as Zojën e Madhe. The feast falls in the heart of summer, symbolizing renewal and reflection.

Many churches in Albania honor Mary. Examples include: Barbullush in Shkodër-Pult, Mamurras in Tiranë-Durrës, Kaçë-Naraç in Sapa, Gruda, Kollomzë near Ulcinj, Letnicë in Karadak, and Zymi i Hasit in Prizren, Kosovo.

These churches preserve Albanian spiritual identity. They are treasures of faith, culture, and art.

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