Monastery of the Forty Saints

The Monastery of the Forty Saints is one of Sarandë’s most atmospheric historic sites, standing on a hill that overlooks the entire bay. Built in the 6th century, it was once one of the most important pilgrimage centers in southern Albania, dedicated to the Forty Martyrs of Sebaste. Although heavily damaged during World War II, its surviving structure still carries a powerful sense of antiquity and devotion. Inside, the monastery reveals a network of stone chambers rather than a single large hall. These rooms—cool, echoing, and partly carved into the hillside—were used for prayer, storage, and monastic life. The most interesting feature is the central crypt, where early Christian worshippers gathered. Its arches and niches remain intact, offering a rare glimpse into early Byzantine architecture. Visitors can also see fragments of frescoes, faint but evocative, clinging to the walls. Their soft outlines hint at saints and symbolic motifs that once covered the entire interior. Another highlight is the monastery’s acoustics: even a quiet step resonates, creating an almost theatrical atmosphere.