Saint Nicholas Church, Lezhë
Lezhë
The Church of Saint Nicholas in Lezhë is a historically significant structure originally established around the 1st century BC within an Illyrian city later rebuilt by the Romans. Initially a Roman Catholic church dedicated to Saint Nicholas, it features remnants such as a heavily damaged fresco of the saint in the apse. In 1444, the League of Lezhë, a notable Albanian alliance, was formed on its grounds, marking its importance in Albanian history. After the Ottoman conquest in 1478, the church was converted into the Selimie Mosque, named after Sultan Selim I, with added Islamic architectural elements including a minaret, mihrab, and dikka. The Ottomans demolished many mosques during the communist era, and the Selimie Mosque was partially destroyed around 1967, with its minaret torn down. In 1981, the site was transformed into the Skanderbeg National Memorial mausoleum, preserving relics related to Albania's national hero. The structure today remains partially in ruins but stands as a cultural monument reflecting its layered religious and historical significance. Restoration efforts began in 2018 following water damage, aiming to preserve this emblematic site.
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Tip: Visitors should consider visiting during spring or early autumn for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Entry is free as it is a monument, but checking local tourism offices for any special events or guided tours is recommended. Advance booking is usually not required. Respectful attire is advised due to the site's religious and memorial nature.
Interesting facts
- •The League of Lezhë, an important Albanian alliance, was formed on the church grounds in 1444.
- •The Ottoman Empire converted the church into a mosque named after Sultan Selim I.
- •Skanderbeg's remains are interred at this site, now serving as his national memorial.
- •The Ottomans reportedly made amulets from Skanderbeg's bones, believing they conferred bravery.
- •The minaret of the Selimie Mosque was torn down during the communist era when mosques were destroyed in Lezhë.
History
The site was originally constructed as a church around the 1st century BC within an Illyrian city later rebuilt by Romans.
It was dedicated to Saint Nicholas and played a key role in Albanian history as the meeting place of the League of Lezhë in 1444.
After the Ottoman conquest in 1478, it was converted into the Selimie Mosque, adding Islamic features including a minaret and mihrab.
During the communist regime, the mosque was partially destroyed with its minaret torn down.
In 1981, it was repurposed as the Skanderbeg National Memorial mausoleum, commemorating Albania's national hero.
Restoration started in 2018 due to water damage.
Place Guide
Church Apse and Fresco of Saint Nicholas1st century BC to medieval period
The apse contains a heavily damaged fresco depicting Saint Nicholas, reflecting the church's original Roman Catholic dedication.
Gaviarius Stone1st century BC
A stone engraved with the name 'Gaviarius' stands at the entrance, unearthed during archaeological excavations, indicating the site's ancient origins.
Selimie Mosque Remnants1478 onwards
Remains of the mosque conversion including foundations where the minaret once stood, reflecting the Ottoman period transformation.
Skanderbeg National Memorial Mausoleum1981
Established in 1981, this mausoleum contains relics of Skanderbeg's battles and serves as a monument to Albania's national hero.
Contact
Phone: 069 874 7320
