The Church of Saint Athanasius in the village of Sinicë, Korçë, a rare place of worship located approximately 1,300 meters above sea level, has been targeted in an apparent act of vandalism.
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Unidentified individuals reportedly entered the church and caused extensive damage, including breaking icons, damaging sacred objects and throwing cement inside the building. The incident has been reported by local residents and friends of the village, who have voluntarily cared for the church and helped maintain it for years.
A Symbol of Religious Coexistence
Residents of Sinicë say the damage goes beyond the destruction of a historic and religious building. They argue that the attack also strikes at the tradition of harmony and coexistence that has characterized the local community.
The church is respected by both Christian and Muslim residents of the area. According to local accounts, there have been several occasions throughout the village's history when the church was rebuilt or maintained through the collective efforts of residents, regardless of their religious background.
Residents Demand Justice
For the people of Sinicë, the vandalism represents an attack on a part of their shared history and cultural heritage.
They are calling on authorities to fully investigate the incident, identify those responsible and bring them to justice. They are also demanding immediate intervention to repair the damage and introduce measures to protect the church from further acts of vandalism.
The Church of Saint Athanasius stands not only as a place of worship, but as a symbol of Sinicë's history, cultural identity and religious coexistence—a heritage residents say must be preserved for future generations.