Saranda

Sarandë or Saranda is the capital of the District of Sarandë, Albania, and is one of the most important tourist attractions of the Albanian Riviera. It is situated on an open sea gulf of the Ionian Sea in the Mediterranean, 2 nautical miles from the Greek island of Corfu. The city of Saranda has a population of about 32,000 inhabitants (2008).

Today, Saranda's population mainly consists of ethnic Albanians, with a minority 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.

Prior to Byzantine rule, the city was called by its ancient Greek name, Onchesmos or Anchiasmos, which was a vital part of Epirus, and inhabited by the Greek 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 "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 when Albania was annexed to Italy.

Naim Frashëri, national poet of Albania lived in the city for a few years.