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Metropolitan of Gjirokaster celebrates Feast of Sts. Cyricus and Julitta at Historic Monastery in Dhuvjan

July 16, 2026 · 1 min read

Metropolitan Nathaniel of Gjirokaster celebrated the Divine Liturgy at the historic Monastery of the Nativity of the Theotokos in the village of Dhuvjan, in the Dropull region, on the feast of the Holy Martyrs Cyricus and Julitta.

The monastery holds special historical significance, as the relics of the martyrs Cyricus and Julitta were kept there during the years of Albania’s atheist regime. Numerous faithful from the surrounding area gathered to participate in the festive services and honor the saints.

In his homily, Metropolitan Nathaniel spoke about the witness and steadfast faith of the Holy Martyrs Cyricus and Julitta, emphasizing that their example continues to call Christians to live authentically according to the Gospel.

“Sts. Cyricus and Julitta constantly invite us to live as true Christians,” the Metropolitan said, highlighting their courage and devotion to Christ even in the face of persecution.

At the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy, a procession was held in the monastery courtyard with the icon and relic of St. Julitta. The celebrations continued with the blessing of the five loaves (Artoklasia) and the Service of the Five Loaves, attended by clergy and…

Source: Orthodox Times · Read the full story →

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Антон Орлов

It’s good that people in Duvyan still remember how the relics were kept there under the communists. I wonder if the relics are still in the monastery now or have they been moved? They didn’t specify that in the article.

Ольга Виноградова

Thank you, Anton, you made a good point about the relics. I heard from our pilgrims that the bulk of the relics are now in the cathedral in Gjirokastra, and only a small part was left in Duvyan. I wonder if this is true?