Sarandë (Albanian: Sarandë or Saranda, Greek: Άγιοι Σαράντα, Agii Saranda) is the capital of the District of Sarandë, Albania, and is one of the most important tourist attractions of the Albanian Riviera. Situated on an open sea gulf of the Ionian Sea in the Mediterranean, at 39°52′N, 20°00′E. The city of Saranda has a population of about 32,000 inhabitants (2008 estimate). Near Sarandë are the remains of the ancient city of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Opposite of Sarandë (about 2 nautical miles away) is another tourist attraction, the Greek island of Corfu, and there are daily ferries between them.
Prior to Byzantine rule, the city was called by its ancient Greek name, Onchesmos or Anchiasmos, (Greek: Όγχησμος) which was a vital part of Epirus, and inhabited by the Greek-speaking tribe of Chaonians. The city was an important port, connecting the Chaonian capital of Phoenice to the sea. Its current name is derived from the Greek phrase “Agioi Saranda” (Greek, Άγιοι Σαράντα), meaning “Forty Saints,” after the Forty Martyrs of Sebastea, traditionally commemorated by the Orthodox Church on 10 March. The city was temporarily called “Porto Edda” in honor of Edda Mussolini, the eldest daughter of Benito Mussolini, during World War II when Albania was annexed to Italy.
The sea panorama, the variety of flora, as well as the soft Mediterranean climate, are among the things that make Saranda the preferred recreational center, and an important tourist attraction. The number of couples who arrange to spend their honeymoon in Sarandë is impressive. Therefore, it shouldn’t be surprising that Saranda is known as the honeymooners’ city. Over the last two decades, Saranda has become the preferred tourist destination. Tourism is the major economic resource, while other resources include services, fishery and construction. The unemployment rate according to the population census of 2001 was 16.58%. It is suggested that family tourism, and seasonal work during the summer period, dramatically mitigate the unemployment rate.
Today, Saranda’s population is mainly ethnic Albanians and of Greeks and Vlachs. The population of Saranda increased from 15,700 inhabitants in 1989 to 27,553 in 2001. However, due to uncontrolled movements, especially after 1997, this figure is considered to be even higher. According to municipal sources, approximately 32,000 inhabitants are currently living in the city.
