Erjola Azizolli – Media Amfora
Between 2000-2017, Orthodox churches in Albania have been the target of repeated robberies. At least 16 episodes have been recorded, resulting in the loss of 23 icons, 3 iconostases and many other precious objects. Of these cases, only 19% have been partially discovered, while the rest remain unsolved.
The Church of Saint Spiridhon in Berat was the victim of a brutal robbery in 2016, where the 300-year-old epitaph disappeared, shocking the Orthodox community. This case is one of many that show the failure of institutions to protect cultural heritage.
The main findings of the research:
- 16 cases of robbery identified between 2000-2017.
- Looted artifacts include 23 icons, 8 decorative objects, 3 iconostasis and bells.
- The most affected counties: Gjirokastra, Korça, Berati and Fieri.
Repeated thefts and poor protection
The National Institute of Cultural Heritage Registration has recorded 16 cases, but religious communities report higher numbers. The lack of funds for security guards and alarm systems has created conditions suitable for robbers. Cases of return of objects are few; only 3 robberies were partially detected.
Notable cases:
- In 2008, 18 icons made by the iconographer Joan Athanasi (1770) were robbed from the Church of Labova of the Cross.
- In 2016, the epitaph of the church of Saint Spyridon in Berat he disappeared and remains unexplained.
Expertise and call to action:
Experts suggest digitizing objects and installing cameras in monuments to prevent robberies. More efforts are required from the institutions and the police to restore the objects and to protect the spiritual and cultural heritage of Albania.
Read the full article on the research: https://ina.media/2024/12/03/vjedhje-sistematike-kishat-u-zbrazen-nga-veprat-e-artit-dhe-objektet-historike/
