Saint Mary Church is located in the village of Labovë e Kryqit. The Church of Labovë e Kryqit is one of the oldest and most beautiful byzantine churches in Albania, which once contained a holy relic believed to be part of the true cross of Christ. The building is typical Byzantine with a high central dome, the Naos and naves built in order to create the image of the cross. The main entrance to the church is through a subsequent narthex. The Church, as seen today, is mainly a 13th century construction and of the Epirus Despotism time. Although an initial foundation can go deep to the time of Emperor Justinian in 527-565 AD.
According to legend, a man from Labova, named Konstandin Laboviti, was a high commander in Justinian’s army. He was so brave and courageous, that one day Justinian offered to reward him with whatever he wanted. He replied: I want you to build a church in my birthplace, Labova village. Justinian agreed and sent the best craftsmen to build the church. Four years later Justinian directed that a Golden Cross, made of pieces of wood from the Jesus Cross, be enshrined in the church. The Cross was covered with 600 gr of gold. It remained part of the church for centuries, but was stolen in 1989 during the civil unrest in Albania. Because the importance of the Cross, the village took the name “Labova of the Cross”.
Every 8th of September, the Day of St Mary is celebrated in this church. People from throughout the region come to be part of festivities. To reach Labova of the Cross, travel south on SH4 about 11 km from Gjirokastra. Turn east on SH96 toward Libohova. Labovë e Kryqit is a few kilometers further on, after the road regains an asphalt surface and enters the village. The journey takes around 40 minutes. The ticket is 200 ALL, or you can leave your contribution to the church money box in the entrance of the Church. It is open all the day, just make sure to ask for the key the owner of bar &restaurant in the center of the village.
