Old Religious Sites in the Sorroundings of Saranda

We depart from Saranda in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan towards Delvinë, enjoying scenic views of the valley and surrounding mountains, while the professional guide offers an introductory overview of the region’s religious history and interfaith harmony. Upon arrival in Delvinë, we begin our visit directly at the Xhermehalla Islamic Complex.

During the exploration of this 17th-century Ottoman complex, we visit the mosque, the türbe, the hammam, and the historic water source, gaining insight through the guide’s explanations into Ottoman influence, early urban planning, and the long-standing tradition of religious tolerance reflected in this site.

Visit to the Gjin Aleksi Mosque in Rusan:
We continue to the village of Rusan, near Delvinë, to visit the Gjin Aleksi Mosque, an important monument built in the 17th century. The mosque is distinguished by its unique acoustics and traditional architecture, while the peaceful natural surroundings create an atmosphere of reflection. During the visit, we learn about its historical and spiritual role within the local community, as well as the message of coexistence and religious harmony that has characterized the area for centuries.

Discovery of the Orthodox Church in the village of Finiq:
Our next stop is in the village of Finiq (outside the Archaeological Park of ancient Phoenice), where we visit a local medieval Orthodox church set within the village community. This visit highlights the area’s Byzantine heritage and offers insight into everyday religious life within picturesque rural landscapes.

Exploration of the Monastery of St. Nicholas in Mesopotam:
We continue to Mesopotam to visit the Monastery of St. Nicholas, a 13th-century Byzantine church-monastery distinguished by its unique architecture with two apses and restored frescoes. This visit illustrates the significance of Orthodox heritage in southern Albania, set within a serene landscape surrounded by olive groves and stunning natural scenery.

We conclude the historical part of the tour with a panoramic visit to the ruins of the Monastery of the Forty Saints, a 6th-century Byzantine site near Saranda that offers breathtaking views over the sea and is historically linked to the origin of the city’s name. To end the experience, we stop at a local spot near Saranda to enjoy freshly made byrek and refreshing dhallë, bringing the tour to a warm close with authentic flavors of Albanian cuisine.