Museum of Archaeology, Saranda

Museum in Sarandë

The Museum of Archaeology in Saranda is housed in the former post office building, just a short walk from the city’s harbour. It reopened in 2008 after a major renovation, transforming the space into a small but important institution dedicated to the region’s heritage. The museum was specifically designed to preserve and display one of Saranda’s most remarkable archaeological finds—a large mosaic floor uncovered during construction work in the city.

The star attraction is the so-called “Dolphin Mosaic,” a late antique floor dating from the 6th century AD. Measuring roughly 12.8 by 11 meters, the mosaic includes symbolic motifs, one of which depicts a dolphin. Scholars believe it may have belonged to a basilica or sanctuary, though it could also have been part of a private residence with religious functions. An inscription preserved in the floor records the name of a presbyter who financed its creation, shedding light on both the patronage and the cultural context of the period.

In addition to the mosaic, the museum displays a range of other archaeological material connected to Saranda and the surrounding area. Pottery fragments, inscriptions, architectural pieces, and coins are presented alongside interpretive panels and photographs of nearby monuments. These exhibits give visitors a clearer sense of the city’s long history and its connections to Butrint and the wider Mediterranean world.

Though relatively small, the museum plays a key role in safeguarding Saranda’s archaeological legacy. It offers an intimate experience, where visitors can get close to an artifact that would otherwise be hidden from view. Its central location makes it easy to include in a walking tour of Saranda’s historical sites, and for many, it provides a concise but fascinating introduction to the art and culture of the late Roman and early Byzantine eras in southern Albania.

The Museum of Archaeology, Saranda appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Sarandë!

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