Tourism and Culture Minister Blendi Gonxhja announced upcoming restoration works at the Saranda Synagogue.

Gonxhja visited the site and said the intervention will restore the monument and improve accessibility day and night. Authorities aim to turn it into a dignified attraction for visitors to the city.

The project includes protection of rare mosaics, a modern lighting system, and upgraded visitor infrastructure. Plans also cover modernization of the information office. The works will be carried out through cooperation between local authorities, the ministry, and the Besa Foundation.

Gonxhja said the foundation’s contribution reflects the historical link to Albania’s protection of Jews during World War II. He described the synagogue as a monument with special symbolism.

Archaeological excavations uncovered the Saranda Synagogue, which features valuable mosaics. It is believed descendants of Jewish settlers built it around 70 AD. In the 6th century, a church replaced the synagogue.

The site remains one of the most visited cultural attractions in Saranda, drawing both domestic and foreign tourists.

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