Archaeological Albania
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Port
Sarande, Albania
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Activity Level
Strenuous
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Excursion Type
Local Sightseeing,All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$89.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 5¼ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
Ancient Butrint was an important Greco-Roman port city, and is now an impressive and ancient UNESCO World Heritage Site with a large salt-lake nearby. Inhabited continuously from the 7th century BC, until it was abandoned in the 18th century, Butrint features impressive walls reminiscent of ancient Mycenae. However, most of the noteworthy excavated remains are early Greek and Roman, including the circular baptistery from the 6th century AD, paved with fine mosaics.
In the town of Saranda, you will learn that this commercial port town is built directly over the ruins of the original Roman town. Visit the Onhezmi Synagogue, built in the 5th century AD, inside the Onhezmi Fort. The size of the two-story structure indicates that the local Jewish community was both large and wealthy. Onhezmi Fort, located on the coast, took full advantage of the overland trade route between Corfu, Thessaloniki and Istanbul and its Hebrew population was certainly involved in trade. The synagogue served both as a place of worship and a community service center. It was built in at least two stages. Originally, the synagogue was a two-story structure and included a prayer hall with mosaic floor picturing a Menorah. At some point, the community prospered and built a new basilica-style prayer hall. Enjoy exploring with your guide.
Notes:
Wear comfortable walking shoes.