Anna Medeossi becomes first female rector of a sanctuary in Algeria

Anna Medeossi, an architect from Gorizia, Italy, has become the first woman in the world to serve as the rector of a sanctuary. She currently manages Notre-Dame de Santa Cruz in Oran, Algeria.

Medeossi originally arrived at the site in 2017 at the request of then-Bishop of Oran, Jean-Paul Vesco (now Cardinal and Archbishop of Algiers), to assist with the renovation of the sanctuary. Her role transitioned from architectural work to permanent leadership following the inauguration of the renovated site and the beatification of the Martyrs of Algeria.

As a member of the Ordo Virginum, Medeossi emphasizes the sanctuary's role as a place of interfaith encounter. The site, located in a predominantly Muslim country, is frequently visited by Muslims. Medeossi describes the mission of the sanctuary and its adjacent Esplanade du vivre ensemble en paix (Esplanade of Living Together in Peace) as a way to foster brotherhood and peaceful coexistence through dialogue and shared appreciation of beauty.