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Località: Discesa Tiro, 19, 87010 Lungro CS

Chapel of Our Lady of Constantinople

The Chapel of Our Lady of Constantinople, also known as the Church of St. Mary of the Icon, is a valuable example of Albanian religious architecture located in Lungro, in the province of Cosenza. Built in the 16th century, the chapel stands on a cliff adjacent to the Tiro stream, which served as a natural border between Lungro and Saracena. This church represents an important landmark for the Albanian community, being the first one built in honor of Our Lady Odigitria, also venerated in the East.

Inside the chapel, there is the first evidence of Byzantine iconography on stone depicting the Madonna and Child, an element of great historical and artistic value. Another noteworthy feature is the wooden coffered ceiling, made in 1663 by Calabrian artist Angelo La Petra, which further enriches the room with its elaborate design. Unfortunately, the canopy that once framed the icon was stolen years ago, but the cultural importance of the chapel remains intact. Recently, in 2022, frescoes were added that further enrich the already fascinating interior decoration. The chapel marks the boundary of the medieval village and bears witness to Albanian settlement, contributing to the history and culture of the area.

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