The Museum of Traditions is located in the old Customs House in front of the marina and shows the cultural heritage of Saranda. It is a great place to learn about the history of Saranda and how it has changed over the centuries. The museum consists of several rooms over 2 floors but is rather small. Around 30-45 minutes should be enough to visit the entire museum. The entrance is only 100 lëke and the same tickets also gives you entrance to the Museum of Archaeology and Galeria Art Saranda.
At the start of the exhibition you see a sketch from the 19th century British poet and artist Edward Lear next to a 1930 photograph showing how only 8 out of 20 stone watchtowers were remaining at that time. On the walls of the ground floor, you see more photographs of Saranda over time. The images show how Saranda has developed over the centuries.
In the 1930s the city was built on a grid system and buildings were deliberately kept low-rise so the entire city could be seen from the see, looking like rising seats in a theatre.
You can also see photographs of the Monastery of 40 Saints from before its destruction during World War II. Even though little is left after the bombardment, you can still visit the remaining ruins.
Apart from the images a collection of everyday objects from different times are displayed on the first floor.
Above the stairs to the second floor you can see some paintings and there is also a table with a guest book and some photo albums. The albums contain some very old black and white photos as well as more recent color photos.
On the second floor you can find a collection of ethnographic objects illustrating the everyday life thought times. You can see musical instruments alongside photos of people playing them, traditional clothing, a weaving loom as well as amphorae and other household objects.
In the last room on the second floor there is a small exhibition. On display are old photos of Saranda’s buildings, as well sketches and some photos of cultural events.
