| Saranda the southern city on Adriatic sea and Jon sea is situated in an open sea gulf, opposite the island of Corfu. Near Saranda stood the ancient Illyrian city of Onchesmos, mentioned as a port in the 1st century B.C. by the ancient writers. The name of �Saranda� meaning bridge originates from the ancient Illyrian language, particularly spoken by Molsosi and Albanoj tribes. The city was fortified with walls during the 4th century A.D. for protection from barbarians and the sea waves and monsters. The inside of the walls is the most interesting part of the walls which have been excavated the remains of dwellings, water cisterns and an early Christian Basilica of the 5th and 6th century, containing a beautiful multicolored floor mosaic. Other mosaics are to be found in the district museum. The ruins are also preserved of an early Christian Monastery, of the 40 Saints, from which the modern name of the town (Saranda) is derived. The sea panorama and soft climate, the variety of flora make Saranda the preferred touristic center. Many Albanian couple spend their honey-moon in Saranda. That's why it is known in Albania as the town of the honey-mooners |
