Voskopoja: Churches, Mountain Landscape and Holiday Apartments

Seven churches from the Byzantine and post-Byzantine periods form a complex in Voskopojë. The churches are known for their frescoes and icons, which bear witness to the skills of Albanian artists of that period. In addition, the town is situated in the mountains at around 1,200 metres above sea level and approximately 20 kilometres west of Korça.

Culture and History

In past centuries, Voskopojë was an important cultural and intellectual centre. The historic centre dates back to a centre founded in 1330 that was once cosmopolitan and culturally advanced. Stone-built houses and cobbled streets reflect the region’s past and give the townscape a distinct historic character.

The Saint John the Baptist Monastery in Voskopojë is a 17th-century architectural monument and reflects Voskopojë’s cultural and economic prosperity. The monastery is a three-nave church in the Byzantine style; murals by the monk Andon of Shipcka have also been preserved there. The Nicholas Church has murals by David Selenica and his collaborators Kostandin and Kristo.

The Saint Athanasius Basilica also has murals by Kostandin and Athanas Zografi, completed in 1745. Murals, icons and a carved wooden iconostasis have been preserved in Saint Mary’s Church; its decoration was completed in 1712. The Saint Michael Church has numerous murals displaying features of 18th-century art.

Landscape and Activities

Voskopojë offers opportunities for walks in nature and for experiencing the mountain landscape. The mountainous terrain of the Voskopojë pine forest offers opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities. The Voskopojë pine forest is considered a special natural attraction in the surrounding area.

A ski slope in Voskopojë is described as being available in winter. Voskopojë was also the venue for local and regional winter sports competitions. The opening of the tourism season is likewise linked to a particular time of year: in Voskopojë, it was opened on 24 June with a festival and a fair at the Saint Prodhrom Monastery.

Local Traditions

Voskopojë is known for local handicrafts, especially woodwork and the weaving of woollen clothing. Local culinary traditions include lakror from the saç, spit-roasted lamb, plum raki, petulla të fshira, petka, petanik and kulaç. Thus, Voskopojë combines handicrafts and traditional dishes that reveal different aspects of the town.

When considering offers for a stay in Voskopojë, visitors can compare the individual holiday apartments objectively. On the respective offer page, they can check details such as the exact location, type of accommodation and possible occupancy before booking. It is also worth reviewing the included services, individual price components and the applicable booking and cancellation conditions.

Other Destinations

Other destinations: Korça.

To the higher-level travel overview: Korça District.