Byllis Archaeological Park: Echoes of Illyrian and Roman Civilizations

Byllis Archaeological Park, situated near Hekal in central Albania, invites visitors to step back in time and explore the impressive remnants of an ancient city that thrived from the 4th century BC to the 6th century AD. Once the largest city in Southern Illyria, Byllis occupies a strategic hilltop location, 547 meters above sea level, offering panoramic views of the Vjosa River valley and surrounding landscapes.The city, founded by the Illyrian tribe of Bylliones, boasts a rich history, later becoming an important center during Roman and Byzantine rule. According to legend, Byllis was established by Neoptolemus, the son of Achilles, dating back to the 11th century BC, although archaeological evidence suggests a later founding in the 4th century BC. The city was encircled by massive 2.2-kilometer-long walls, enclosing 30 hectares and featuring six gateways. Within these walls, visitors can discover the remains of a theater with a seating capacity of 7,500, a stadium, temples, and several Palaeo-Christian basilicas adorned with intricate mosaics.During the Roman period, Byllis became a colony named Colonia Iulia Augusta and served as a base for Caesar's army in 49-48 BC. In the 5th century AD, under Emperor Justinian, it evolved into a significant religious center with several basilicas constructed. However, in 586 AD, Byllis was sacked by invaders and subsequently abandoned. Today, Byllis Archaeological Park stands as a testament to Albania's rich cultural heritage, offering a unique glimpse into the Illyrian, Roman, and Byzantine civilizations that once flourished here.