Sarandë: A Brief History



Sarandë is a coastal city in the south of Albania, located in the county of Vlorë. It is the largest city in the Prefecture of Vlorë and the second-largest city in the country, after the capital Tirana. Sarandë has been inhabited since ancient times and is known for its rich history and culture.

The city was founded by the ancient Greeks in the 7th century BC and was known as Onchesmos. During the Middle Ages, it was part of the Byzantine Empire and later became part of the Principality of Arbër. In the 15th century, it was conquered by the Ottoman Empire and became part of the Vilayet of Janina.

In the 19th century, Sarandë was an important port city for the Ottoman Empire and was a major center of trade and commerce. It was also a popular destination for tourists, with its beautiful beaches and scenic views.

During the 20th century, Sarandë was part of the newly formed Albanian state and was heavily damaged during the Second World War. After the war, the city was rebuilt and its economy began to recover. In the 1980s, the city was heavily developed and its infrastructure improved.

Today, Sarandë is a popular tourist destination and is known for its beautiful beaches, picturesque views, and vibrant nightlife. It is also home to many historical sites, including the ruins of the ancient Greek city of Onchesmos, the ruins of the Byzantine fortress, and the ruins of the Ottoman fort.

Sarandë is an important part of Albanian history and culture, and is a great place to visit for anyone interested in learning more about the country. With its rich history and vibrant culture, Sarandë is a city worth exploring.