Saranda historike (Onhezmi)
Historic Sarandë grew from ancient Onchesmos (Onhezmi), a port on the Ionian facing Corfu that linked Epirus with the wider Mediterranean. Under Byzantine rule the town was developed and fortified, and it later took its present name from the Monastery of the Forty Saints.
Sarandë
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Sarandë Promenade follows the Ionian shore through the town centre, looking across the water to Corfu, and is one of the busiest spots in Sarandë, lined with cafés, restaurants and beaches. Known in antiquity as Onchesmos, the town takes its name from the Monastery of the Forty Saints (Agioi Saranda).
Lukovë is a coastal village in Himarë municipality, about 22 km from Sarandë, with small, quiet beaches and woodland around it. Lanes lead from houses with vine-shaded yards down to the beaches, and the church of Shën Thanasi stands in the centre.
The ruins of Sarandë’s old synagogue are a trace of the Jewish community that lived and worshipped here centuries ago. As they lie within the town, they fit easily into a walk through Sarandë’s religious and cultural history.
Lëkurësi Castle was built in 1537 under Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent to guard the port and the sea and land routes near Sarandë. Its surviving walls look out over the town, the coastline and the Ionian Sea.
The Monastery of the Forty Saints dates from the medieval period and was an important spiritual centre for the local community; Sarandë takes its name from it. It stands on the hill of the same name, above the town.
Ksamil Beach lies south of Sarandë, on the road to Butrint, and is one of the best-known summer destinations on the Albanian Riviera. Its crystal-clear water makes it a good choice for families, and the small Ksamil Islands just offshore can be visited by boat.
