Orthodox believers celebrate the Nativity of the Holy Mother of God today.

On this occasion, Prime Minister Edi Rama announced that restoration works at the Spile Monastery are nearing completion. He shared the news on social media, highlighting the cultural and spiritual importance of the monument.

“The monument is being reborn, preserving its authenticity and centuries-old history. It’s an act of faith, love, and dedication for future generations,” wrote Rama.

The restoration includes archaeological surveys, structural consolidation, cleaning, removal of inappropriate interventions, and restoration of domes, arches, windows, and doors.

Thanks to these efforts, the monument is being revived while remaining faithful to its original identity.

The Monastery of St. Mary of Spile is one of the most beautiful in Lunxhëri. It lies above the village of Saraqinisht, about 20 km from Gjirokastra.

An inscription on the church’s main entrance (nave) shows it dates back to 1634. The church is a recognized cultural heritage site in the “Architecture” category since June 1973.

Painter Mihali decorated the monastery during the time of Bishop Kalist. The monastery stands on a limestone rock, shaped by karst caves. It once housed hermits—people who lived in isolation to seek forgiveness for their sins.

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