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Explore the ancient wonders of Saranda, Albania, where history and archeology merge harmoniously. From the renowned Monastery Forty Saints to the captivating ruins of Finiq and Butrint, this charming city is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts.
Don’t miss the chance to visit the the breathtaking panoramic view of Saranda, make sure to ascend to the magnificent Monastery Forty Saints.
Saranda, unlike many Albanian cities, does not really have an old town, but like the settlements in the castel system areas atbthe boarders more or less continuous defensive lines were built on the surrounding hilltops, such as Finiq, Butrint, Porto Palermo or Lekuresi Castle.
These defense lines had a dual function for a long time.
On the one hand, they protected the areas around and behind them.
On the other hand, with their raids, they destroyed the enemy’s accessible territories, collected taxes, and took prisoners.
In addition to the secular bastions, however, the church also tried to demonstrate its power, as The Monastery of the Forty Saint Martyrs / Rrënojat e Manastirit të 40 Shenjtorëve) in Saranda also functioned as a famous place of pilgrimage.
Saranda actually got its name from this monastery, as Saranda means 40 in Greek.
According to one legend, 40 Christian soldiers who were members of the Legio XII Fulminata Roman army were imprisoned in the church.
Well organized in its day, the monastery was built on a hillside and still has intact columns, well-formed rows of windows and arches above them, and stone halls.
The monastery famously contains 40 rooms, one for each saint commemorated.
According to archaeologists, the early Christian church dates back to the 6th century and operated until the end of the 20th century, when the former two-floor monastery was bombed by British soldiers in 1944, because they believed that a German garrison was hiding inside.
The ruins remained untouched during communist times, despite the religious ban in Albania, because the site was declared a cultural monument.
The monument complex is also an ideal tour during a winter getaway, as it is approx.
It is located cca. 4 km away and can be reached on foot but recomended get there by car, and offers a wonderful view of the entire city and the mountains on the other side.
Come and experience the rich heritage of Saranda – We Love Saranda and we’re sure you will too!
