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Archaeological Park of Antigonea: A City Born of Love

Explore Antigonea's ancient ruins near Gjirokastër, Albania: a city founded on love, offering history and stunning Drino Valley views.

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Explore the ruins of Antigonea, an ancient city in Albania founded in 295 BC by King Pyrrhus of Epirus, named after his wife Antigone. Discover the remains of this once-thriving center, offering insights into ancient life and stunning views of the Drino Valley.

A brief summary to Archaeological Park of Antigonea

  • Gjirokastër, 6017, AL
  • Monday 9 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-6 pm
  • Friday 9 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes as the terrain is uneven.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities within the park.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid heat and crowds.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning views and intricate details of the ancient mosaics.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Gjirokastër city center, head east following signs for the Archaeological Park of Antigonea. The park is located approximately 14 km from Gjirokastër. The road to the park is paved and in good condition. Parking is available at the entrance. There are generally no tolls on this route. Entrance to the park costs 200 ALL.

  • Public Transport

    From Gjirokastër's city center, take a local bus or minibus towards the village of Saraqinishtë or Antigonea. These buses are available near the main square (Sheshi i Çamerisë). Ask the driver to drop you off at the stop for Antigonea, approximately 15-20 minutes away. From there, follow the signs to the Archaeological Park, about a 10-minute walk. Bus fare is approximately 150-200 ALL. Entrance to the park costs 200 ALL.

  • Taxi

    From Gjirokastër city center, a taxi to the Archaeological Park of Antigonea is a convenient option. Taxis can be found at the River Bridge (Ura e Lumit) or along "18 Shtatori" Boulevard. The ride is approximately 14 km and takes around 30 minutes. A taxi ride will cost approximately 1500 ALL. Entrance to the park costs 200 ALL.

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Discover more about Archaeological Park of Antigonea

The Archaeological Park of Antigonea, located 14 km east of Gjirokastër, Albania, invites visitors to step back in time and explore the remnants of an ancient city with a captivating history. Founded in 295 BC by Pyrrhus, King of Epirus, the city was named in honor of his wife, Antigone. Situated on a dominant point on the hill of Jerma, Antigonea was a significant ancient settlement in the Drinos Valley. Spanning 45 hectares within its 3rd-century walls, the archaeological park covers over 90 hectares, offering ample space for exploration. Excavations in the 1970s provided evidence confirming the location of Antigonea, revealing silver voting cards and bronze cards bearing the city's name. The city's strategic location allowed it to dominate the Drinos Valley, with suburban fortifications like the Lekli fortress, Labova, and Selo providing additional protection. Visitors can explore the remains of the city's road system, which was laid out in a "hypodamic" style with north-south roads intersecting east-west roads. The main north-south road, named after archaeologist Dhimosten Budina, features wide sidewalks and rainwater drainage channels. Discoveries include a medieval church (IX-X century) built after the ancient city was destroyed, as well as dwellings in the commercial-artisan area with metal and leather workshops. Although Antigonea was destroyed by the Romans in 167 BC, archaeological records indicate that it continued to exist as a settlement in late antiquity. A unique Early Christian church (V-VI century) with a polychrome mosaic floor can be found on the southernmost part of the fortified area. Today, the Archaeological Park of Antigonea offers a blend of history and nature, with panoramic views of the Drino Valley and diverse flora and fauna.

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