Perched atop a hill overlooking the town of Laç in northern Albania, the Saint Anthony of Padua Church—locally known as Kisha e Shen Ndout—stands as a profound symbol of faith, resilience, and cultural unity. Its story is one of devotion through adversity, and it continues to inspire thousands of pilgrims each year.
#### Early Beginnings
The church traces its roots back to the 14th century when it was founded by the Franciscan order. Initially a Benedictine site, it was later dedicated to Saint Anthony of Padua in the 16th century, a saint renowned for his miracles and compassion. Over time, the church became a prominent pilgrimage destination, attracting not only Christians but also members of other faiths, including Muslims, who hold Saint Anthony in high regard.
#### Perseverance During Communism
In the mid-20th century, Albania fell under the oppressive communist regime of Enver Hoxha, which sought to eradicate all religious institutions. In 1967, the Saint Anthony of Padua Church was targeted for destruction. Plans were made to turn the site into a military barracks, but local lore recounts mysterious occurrences: soldiers reportedly found themselves inexplicably outside the church each morning, thwarting their efforts. Eventually, the building was demolished, but the site itself remained a powerful symbol of spiritual defiance.
#### A Pilgrimage of Faith
Despite the destruction of the church, the site continued to draw countless pilgrims. Every year, on June 13th—Saint Anthony’s feast day—thousands of people from across Albania and neighboring countries gather to climb the hill in his honor. This pilgrimage, even during the communist era, became an act of quiet resistance, a testament to the unwavering power of faith.
#### Restoration and Legacy
Following the collapse of communism in the early 1990s, the church was rebuilt, allowing public worship to flourish once more. Today, the Saint Anthony of Padua Church in Laç serves not only as a place of religious devotion but also as a cultural landmark. Pilgrims, believers, and visitors of all backgrounds come together to experience the spiritual and historical significance of this sacred site.
The church is more than a building; it is a symbol of enduring hope and spiritual resilience. Whether seeking blessings, honoring a sacred tradition, or exploring Albania's rich history, visitors to the Saint Anthony of Padua Church leave with a profound sense of connection to something greater.