Sarande is the capital city of the District of Sarande in Southern Albania. The area is known as the "Albanian Riviera" and is a mere 14 kms from Corfu. This area has only opened up since the fall of the communist regime in 1991. There is a lot of new construction being undertaken - both legal and illegal - and farmers are now being actively encouraged to cultivate their land (or risk losing ownership).

You cannot visit this area without a visit to the ancient city of Butrint - one if the most remarkable archaeological sites I have ever visited. . Butrint provides an astounding journey through the ages of history dating back to 8th century BC. It exhibits remains from most major empires of the area, including Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, Venetian and Ottoman ruins. A comprehensive information brochure about the city is available at the entrance; also each important site has a sign with historical facts and dates in order to help visitors understand what they are seeing. Whilst we had a local Albanian guide to provide us with the rich history of the site a visitor could easily find their way around using the map provided.

As you walk down the first avenue Aussies will feel right at home........ The avenue is delineated with a row of gum trees either side!! Butrint owes its growth and early fame to a sanctuary dedicated to Asclepius (god of medicine) in the 4th century BC. Other interesting things to see in Butrint include the Freedom Wall (where the names of slaves released by their landlords are carved), Greek amphitheatre (later remodelled by the Romans), the baptistery (where we came upon wedding photos being taken - hence the bride in the photo), the Basilica (with original mosaic floor), the lions gate, and the museum at the top of the acropolis which includes many interesting artifacts found in the area. There are also magnificent views of Butrint Lake from the peak and an appreciation of the heavily wooded national park. It is incredible to think that only one third of the site has been excavated to date. I wonder what other treasures are still to be found.

Butrint is one of several places in Albania which was kept off-limits to the general public during the Communist Era as it was initially declared a military zone. Then the city was made into a tourist destination for foreigners to visit, but Albanian citizens were not allowed due to fears that they would try to escape by swimming the short distance to Greece (only 3.5 miles away at the shortest point).

A big hint......Butrint ancient city is enclosed within a national park with wetland status.....LOTS of mosquitoes so bring your insect repellent