Hotels near Synagogue-Basilica

In the middle of Saranda lie the ruins of a remarkable ancient synagogue that was later converted into a Christian basilica, one of the few such sites in the region. Dating originally from around the 5th century, it testifies to a Jewish community in the ancient port town of Onchesmos.

The highlight is the surviving mosaic flooring, decorated with religious symbols including a menorah and, from its later Christian phase, animals and other motifs. Sheltered and set slightly below street level, it is an easy, free stop that reveals the deep history beneath the modern resort.

Pro Tip: It sits just back from the waterfront and is usually free to view. The mosaics are sometimes covered for protection in winter, so it is best seen in the main season.