Being in the crossroads of such influences, Oricum became a civilized urban centre, as evidenced by various archaeological ruins, such as part of an Orchestra, a small theatre, which is thought to have seated 400 spectators, traces of wall ruins and streets that are clearly seen, albeit lying under the water of the lagoon, and the Marmiroi Church. This is a church of dating back to the early Byzantine period, of the Byzantine emperor Theodore of the thirteenth century. It has a small 6m by 9m main hall and a dome approximately 3m in diameter that is supported by four Roman arches. The internal walls still feature fragments of murals characteristic of Byzantine culture. The church has three entrances and is renowned for its complex construction and architectural values. To reach the church one has to pass through Oricum, in the direction of Pashaliman, and then take a turn towards the sea.
Today Oricum is an important settlement which is seeing renewed development. This is also a result of its favorable geographical location between the town of Vlora and the tourist resort of Llogara, as well as its closeness to the sea.
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Oricum is located on the Vlora-Saranda national road. The ancient town of Oricum was established in the 7th – 6th century B.C. by Hellenic settlers. Its geographical position was very suitable for military purposes. Oricum was used by the Romans in ancient times as a defensive base in the wars against the Illyrians as well as in the 3rd century B.C. against the Macedonians, who in fact occupied it. Julius Caesar stationed his troops in camps there for several months, until they were taken by Pompey (Pompeius Magnus).
