Catholic Church of St Marie (Sacred Heart Church), Tirana

The Sacred Heart Church, known also as the Catholic Church of Saint Marie, stands as a historic symbol of faith and resilience in Tirana. Constructed in 1939 amidst the tumultuous era of the Italian invasion, this Roman Catholic edifice is the oldest Catholic church in the city, showcasing the architectural brilliance of Giovanni Santi through its neo-Romanesque design.

The establishment of the church during a time of foreign rule is an important part of its history. But its challenges didn't end there. In 1967, Albania banned all religious activities, putting the church at risk of closure. This ban lasted until 1990. Despite this, the Sacred Heart Church was used secretly by Catholics to practice their faith, even though the building was falling apart. A visible reminder of this time is a wall built in front of the church to hide its religious nature.

The reopening of the church in 1990 was a significant event, not only for the Catholic community but also for the wider religious community in Tirana. Despite the destruction of its bell tower, the bell itself was saved and donated to a nearby Orthodox church that didn't have one. This gesture of goodwill represented unity among different faiths, supported by the Muslim community in Albania, which also provided assistance to the Catholic church.

A notable highlight in the church's history is the visit from Mother Teresa in 1991, who had a personal connection to the site as it once served as her elementary school and was situated on the street where she lived. Though Mother Teresa received her sacraments in Skopje, her visit to the Sacred Heart Church underscores the deep spiritual and historical ties that bind individuals to places of worship.