Saranda is a coastal city in southern Albania, located along a wide bay of the Ionian Sea, part of the larger Mediterranean Sea.

In ancient times, it was known as Onchesmus (or Onchesmos), a port town in the region of Chaonia, part of ancient Epirus.

The city’s modern name comes from the nearby Byzantine Monastery of the Forty Saints (Agioi Saranda), which gave it its name during the High Middle Ages.

Today, Saranda is renowned for its deep blue waters, mild climate, and beautiful views of the island of Corfu, located just across the sea. Nearby lies the ancient city of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, adding to Saranda’s appeal as a cultural and historical destination.

In recent years, tourism has increased significantly, with many visitors arriving via cruise ships.

Historically, the town was largely abandoned by the late 12th century, as noted in a medieval chronicle from 1191. Under the rule of Ali Pasha in the early 19th century, a small settlement called Skala or Skaloma grew near the harbor.

After the Ottoman administrative reforms of 1867, Saranda became an independent unit (müdürluk) under the district of Delvinë.

In 1927, Saranda had only about 800 residents. Ten years later, the population more than doubled to 1,800.

This period saw the beginnings of urban development: the construction of the pier, the seaside promenade, and the first homes, shops, and warehouses.

From the 1960s to the 1980s, Saranda was promoted as Albania’s premier tourist destination, both for locals and the very limited number of foreign visitors who could enter the country during its isolated communist era.

Initial investments were made, especially in developing the green crown of the Albanian Riviera.