A Latin inscription was discovered in the 5th-6th century Paleo-Christian Basilica in the center of Elbasan. Diakonia Eurydice, a woman who led this Christian Basilica in late antiquity. A very important archaeological find.

The Paleochristian (or Early Christian/Byzantine) Basilica in Elbasan (ancient Scampis/Skampis), also known as the Bezistan Basilica, is a real and significant 5th–6th century archaeological site in central Albania.

It is one of the key early Christian monuments in the region, located in the heart of modern Elbasan near the Kala (fortress) neighborhood. The city of Scampis lay on the Via Egnatia, making it an important stop with early Christian presence; it had a bishop and served as an administrative/religious center in late antiquity.

Date and Architecture

Built in the 5th century (late Roman/early Byzantine period), with evidence of multiple phases. It features impressive floor mosaics (some polychrome with Christian symbolism, such as Eucharistic motifs like peacocks drinking from a vase representing eternal life, crosses, and geometric patterns). Mosaics have been uncovered and protected (often covered for preservation and occasionally revealed).

Recent Discoveries

Ongoing or recent excavations (as of 2024–2026 reports) have revealed additional mosaics from an earlier phase of the basilica, donor inscriptions mentioning families who contributed to the church, and high-quality workmanship linked to artisans along the Via Egnatia (comparable to finds in Ohrid). The site is a protected cultural monument (Category I).

Significance

It attests to early Christian communities in Albania/Illyricum and the spread of Christianity along major Roman roads. Mosaics and architecture show connections to broader Byzantine and Mediterranean traditions.

Sources

Academic/Overview: Ledio Karaj’s short article on Academia.edu: “Paleochristian Basilica of Elbasan – Albania” (2019).

Recent News (2026): Vox News article on new mosaic discoveries and phases of the basilica.

General Info: ArchIQoo on Bezistan Basilica; Albanian cultural heritage sites; Wikipedia/Elbasan entry.

Context on Mosaics: Reports mention French-Albanian collaboration for documentation and high artistic/theological quality.