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Apollonia: An Ancient Illyrian City

Discover Apollonia: Explore ancient Greek & Roman ruins in Albania's largest archaeological park. A journey through history awaits!

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Explore the ruins of Apollonia, an ancient city founded by Greek colonists in the 7th century BCE, which later became an important Roman center. Discover the remains of temples, a theater, and a museum housing artifacts from this once-thriving metropolis in present-day Albania.

A brief summary to Apollonia, Qyteti Antik Ilir

  • PFCC+GCP, Pojan, AL

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain throughout the archaeological site.
  • Visit during the spring or early autumn for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
  • Allow at least half a day to explore the extensive ruins and the museum.
  • Bring water and sun protection, especially during the summer months.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    If driving from Tirana, the journey to Apollonia takes approximately 2 hours. Take the main road south towards Fier. From Fier, follow the signs to the village of Pojan, where Apollonia is located. Parking is available near the entrance of the archaeological park and is free.

  • Taxi

    From Fier, the easiest way to reach Apollonia is by taxi, a 12 km journey. Negotiate the fare before getting in, or book a taxi in advance. A return journey with a waiting time of 2 hours costs around 2,000 Lek. Alternatively, ALBES Taxis in Fier is helpful and speaks English (+355 800 3333).

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Discover more about Apollonia, Qyteti Antik Ilir

Apollonia, located near Fier, Albania, offers a captivating glimpse into the past as one of the most significant archaeological sites in the country. Founded in 588 BC by Greek colonists from Corfu and Corinth, the city thrived due to its strategic location between Greek and Illyrian territories, becoming a vital center for trade and culture. Named after the god Apollo, the city was home to impressive structures and a renowned school of philosophy, attracting scholars and even the Roman emperor Augustus. During its peak, Apollonia was a bustling metropolis with an estimated population of 60,000 to 70,000, protected by a 4km long wall. The city boasted a rich array of monuments, including the city council building (Bouleuterion) with its iconic columns, a library, a triumphal arch, and the Temple of Artemis. The 2nd-century Odeon, capable of hosting around 10,000 spectators, and the Nymphaeum, with its active springs and fountains, are also among the notable remains. Apollonia's decline began in the 3rd century AD following a devastating earthquake that altered the course of the Vjosa River, leading to the silting up of its harbor. The city was eventually abandoned in the 4th century AD. Rediscovered in the 17th century, archaeological excavations began in the early 20th century, revealing the city's treasures. Today, visitors can explore the extensive archaeological park, wander through the ruins, and visit the Museum of Apollonia, housed in the Monastery of Saint Mary, to view artifacts unearthed from the site. The Albanian government is seeking to inscribe Apollonia on UNESCO's World Heritage List.

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