Speaking to Albanian Telegraphic Agency on Tuesday, Fr. Jaku said the tradition brings together pilgrims from across Albanian-inhabited regions, describing it as a powerful expression of faith, hope and devotion passed down through generations.

Every Tuesday, roads leading to the Saint Anthony (Shna Ndou) Church in the town of Laç are filled with pilgrims, many of whom travel on foot. The atmosphere, he said, is marked by prayer, candles and emotional reflection.

Jaku noted that the Franciscan presence dates back to the late 13th century, adding that devotion to St. Anthony has grown significantly over the years, particularly through the practice of the “13 Tuesdays” of prayer and Mass.

He said the feast day, celebrated on June 13, attracts hundreds of thousands of pilgrims each year, estimating attendance at around half a million to 600,000 people.

The priest also referred to accounts of reported miracles linked to the site, recounting individual testimonies of healing and personal transformation shared by believers.

Beyond its religious significance, the pilgrimage also has a social and cultural impact, with the surrounding area becoming a hub of activity as small traders sell traditional products, blending devotion with everyday life.

The site in northwest Albania remained frequented even during the communist era, though visits were not organised. The church was destroyed in 1971 under the former regime and rebuilt in 1990, shortly before the revival of religious practices in the country.

The church dates back to around 1300, when it was first built by Franciscan friars. After attending the site for 13 consecutive Tuesdays, pilgrims gather for the main day of St. Anthony, which falls on June 13 and draws worshippers from across Albania and the diaspora.

The pilgrimage season begins in March and culminates on June 13, blending religious devotion with a long-standing cultural tradition.

1 of 20

/e.i/a.f/r.e/u.sh/