Synagogue–Basilica Archaeological Remains

The Synagogue–Basilica archaeological remains in Sarandë form one of the most unusual historic sites on Albania’s Ionian coast. Dating to the 5th–6th century, the complex began as a Jewish synagogue serving a thriving coastal community. Later, as Christianity spread, the building was transformed into a basilica—an architectural evolution rarely preserved so clearly in one place. This dual identity makes the site a key window into Sarandë’s multicultural past. Inside the excavated area, the most striking feature is the mosaic floor. Look for the menorah mosaic—a rare and beautiful symbol of Jewish heritage in the Balkans. Nearby, geometric and floral patterns reflect the later Christian phase, showing how artisans adapted the space without erasing its earlier history. You can also trace the synagogue’s original layout: the assembly hall, side rooms used for study or community gatherings, and the niche where the Torah ark once stood. When the building became a basilica, new architectural elements were added, including an apse and expanded aisles. These overlapping layers are still visible in the stone foundations.