Legend has it, that the church of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary (Kisha e Fjetjes së Virgjëreshës) in the village of Labovë was built by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I in the 6th century. It is believed he has married there and also donated a splinter from the cross of Jesus to the shrine. Therefore, locals call the church Labova of the Cross (Labova e Kryqit) and consider it a pilgrim place. The church is located less than 30 kilometres from Gjirokastër.
The church in today’s form dates from the 13th century (according to other data, from the 10th century). Like other Albanian medieval churches in the region, it is characterized by the bricks arranged in various ornaments. Later, a narthex and three side apses around the main nave were added. The roofing is of grey stone, so typical of houses in Gjirokastër and the surrounding area.
The interior frescoes date back to 1805. During restoration, older frescoes were found underneath, supposedly depicting Emperor Justinian himself. The beautifully carved gilded iconostasis is one of the striking features of the church.
The church is usually closed. If you want to look inside, ask any local to call the caretaker to unlock the door.
Labovë can be reached by bus from Gjirokastër (twice a day), or Libohovë (by taxi or on foot, 6 km). A road with a brand-new asphalt surface now leads up to the church.
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