Fodor's Expert Review Ancient Synagogue

The remains of an ancient synagogue dating back to the 5th century AD—the first to be found in Albania—were excavated in 2003 and have since been widely expanded. Although it was discovered in the 1970s, prior to the fall of the communist government, the prohibition of religion under the existing regime prevented exploration of what was deemed to be a religious site. The subject matter of the exceptional mosaics found at the site, including a menorah and a ram's horn, suggested a Jewish past. The original excavation was a controversial one, precipitating many protests as homes and other buildings had to be demolished to uncover the ruins.