Our Lady of Letnica

Letnica, North Macedonia

The most important Marian sanctuary in North Macedonia, where the Virgin Mary is venerated as Queen of Peace.

History of the Sanctuary

The Letnica Sanctuary is located in the village of Letnica, in southern North Macedonia. The devotion to the Virgin Mary in this place dates back to the 14th century, when an image of the Virgin was found by a pastor in the field.

The miraculous image

The image of Our Lady of Letnica is an oil painting of the 14th century that represents the Virgin Mary with the Child Jesus. The image was canonically crowned in 1934 by Pope Pius XI and is considered one of the most important Marian images of the Balkans.

Miracles and conversions

Over the centuries, many miracles have been attributed to the intercession of Our Lady of Letnica:

• Cures of serious illnesses
• Conversions of souls far from the faith
• Protection during wars and conflicts
• Families united in prayer

The annual pilgrimage

Every year, on August 15 (Festivity of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary), tens of thousands of pilgrims from North Macedonia, Albania, Kosovo and other countries come to the Sanctuary of Letnica. The pilgrimage is one of the most important in the Balkans.

The Virgin Mary during the Ottoman era

During Ottoman domination (XIV-XIX centuries), the Catholic faith was pursued in North Macedonia. However, devotion to the Virgin Mary remained alive in the clandestine. Catholic families continued to pray the Rosary in their homes, transmitting the faith from generation to generation.

Prayer to Our Lady of Letnica

Oh, Our Lady of Letnica, Queen of Peace, Mother of mercy. You who have accompanied the people of North Macedonia in their most difficult moments, intercede for us before your Son Jesus. It protects our land, strengthens our faith and leads us to peace and unity. Amen.