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Phoenice: Echoes of Ancient Epirus

Uncover the ancient Greek city of Phoenice in Albania: a journey through Chaonian, Roman, and Byzantine history.

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Explore the ruins of Phoenice, the ancient capital of the Chaonians and once the wealthiest city in Epirus, Albania. Discover its Greek, Roman, and Byzantine history through its impressive city walls, theater, and basilica remains, set amidst stunning natural beauty.

A brief summary to Phoenice Archaeological Park

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain is uneven.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities on-site.
  • Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.
  • Consider hiring a local guide for a deeper understanding of the site's history.
  • Allow 1-2 hours to explore the entire site.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Saranda, take a minibus (furgon) to Finiq. Minibuses depart regularly from Saranda's central bus station. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes and costs around 100 ALL. From Finiq, it's a steep, approximately 2 km walk uphill to the site. Alternatively, hire a local taxi from Finiq to the park entrance for around 500-700 ALL.

  • Taxi

    Hire a taxi from Saranda directly to Phoenice Archaeological Park. The ride takes approximately 30 minutes. Agree on the fare before starting your journey; expect to pay around 3,000 ALL one way.

  • Walking

    From the center of Finiq, the archaeological park is approximately a 2 km walk uphill. The road is asphalted but steep. Follow the signs for the 'Parku Arkeologjik i Finiqit'. There are no costs associated with walking.

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Discover more about Phoenice Archaeological Park

Perched on a commanding hilltop near modern Finiq, Albania, the Phoenice Archaeological Park unveils the story of a powerful ancient city. Once the capital of the Chaonian tribe and the wealthiest city in Epirus, Phoenice (also called Phoenike or Φοινίκη in Greek) held strategic importance from the 5th century BC through the Byzantine era. Founded by the Chaonians in the 6th century BC, Phoenice quickly rose to prominence as a major political and economic center. Its strategic location near the Straits of Corfu made it a key hub for Mediterranean trade, attracting merchants and traders while its strong fortifications offered defense. The city's influence extended throughout the region, with its own currency discovered as far as Italy and Egypt. Explore the remains of this once-great city, including the massive fortification walls, constructed with immense blocks during the Hellenistic period. The impressive theater, a defining monument of Phoenice, reflects both Hellenistic and Roman influences. Discover the Paleochristian Basilica, dating back to the Byzantine era, showcasing the city's religious significance. However, the site also bears witness to more recent history. During the Cold War, the hilltop was used as a military base, resulting in the construction of bunkers that now dot the landscape. Despite this, the archaeological park offers a unique blend of ancient ruins and panoramic views, inviting visitors to step back in time and imagine the bustling life of this once-thriving metropolis. Today, Phoenice Archaeological Park stands as a testament to the layers of civilizations that have shaped Albania's cultural heritage. Roam through the ruins, envision the ancient performances in the theater, and appreciate the breathtaking vistas that once made Phoenice the heart of Epirus.

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