Holy Virgin Mary Kamensko, Ohrid

The Holy Virgin Mary Kamensko Church (Sveta Bogorodica Kamensko) is a significant Orthodox Christian sanctuary located in Ohrid. It operates under the Debar-Kicevo Metropolitanate of the Macedonian Orthodox Church - Ohrid Archdiocese. Nestled in the heart of Ohrid above Old Chinar, the church is a historic and cultural landmark believed to have been constructed in the 17th century.

Throughout its history, the church has undergone several expansions and renovations. An inscription on a stone block on the eastern exterior confirms an expansion in 1832. Further interior renovations were documented in inscriptions by Dicho Zograf, his son Avram Dichov, and Petar Ioanov during 1863-1864. The church's frescoes, pivotal to its artistic heritage, were restored in 1924 and underwent further cleaning and conservation by the Institute for the Protection of Cultural Monuments and the National Museum - Ohrid in 2002.

The church's iconostasis, crafted in 1845 by Debar master Dimitar Stanishev, features an intricate design with images of Saints Cyril and Methodius, Saint Clement of Ohrid, and Saint Athanasius on the royal doors. Another remarkable feature is the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary throne icon by Georgi Manuel. The iconostasis, richly adorned and gilded in 1867 through the patronage of Stefan Trimce Rekali, showcases a blend of local flora and fauna scenes, culminating in an upper register decorated with dragons, a crucifix, and depictions of the Holy Virgin and Saint John the Theologian.

The church complex also includes an administrative building constructed in 1991 and various infrastructural improvements made in the early 2000s, including the painting of previously untouched sections, marble granite flooring, and an extension of the courtyard completed by 2006.

Visitors to the church can enjoy a small terrace in the backyard, which offers panoramic views of Ohrid, adding a spiritual and visual experience for those exploring this sacred site. The Holy Virgin Mary Kamensko Church stands not only as a place of worship but also as a testament to the rich religious and cultural tapestry of Macedonia.