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Archaeological Park of Antigonea: A City of Love and History

Discover Antigonea: Explore ancient ruins and immerse yourself in the captivating history and stunning landscapes of this Albanian archaeological park.

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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 Hellenistic-era ruins, including city walls, an agora, and a 5th-century basilica with a unique mosaic, set amidst the stunning landscapes 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 within the archaeological park can be uneven.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities available inside the park.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
  • Check for guided tours to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the archaeological site.
  • Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning views of the Drino Valley and the intricate details of the ancient ruins.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach the Archaeological Park of Antigonea via public transport from Gjirokastër, take a bus from the Gjirokastër bus station heading towards Saranda. Inform the driver that you wish to stop at Antigonea. The bus ride takes approximately 15-20 minutes. After getting off the bus, walk about 1 km to reach the entrance of the archaeological park. A bus ticket should cost around 300 Lek.

  • Taxi

    To reach the Archaeological Park of Antigonea by taxi from Gjirokastër, head to a taxi stand or request a ride from your location. The taxi ride takes about 15-20 minutes. The estimated cost for a taxi ride is 2000-2500 Albanian Lek. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting the journey.

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Discover more about Archaeological Park of Antigonea

The Archaeological Park of Antigonea, located 14 km from Gjirokastër, invites visitors to explore a significant 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. The city flourished as an important economic, cultural, and political center during the Hellenistic period. Spanning 90 hectares, the park showcases the remains of this once-thriving city. Archaeological excavations, which began in the 1970s, have revealed much of the city's layout, including its road network and residential blocks. The city was designed with a hypodamic system, featuring parallel north-south roads intersecting with east-west roads. Key features of the park include the fortified perimeter, offering panoramic views of the Drinos Valley. Visitors can explore the ruins of a 5th-6th century early Christian church, known for its unique triconch architecture and well-preserved polychrome mosaic floor. The agora, or city center, is located in the western part of the city, offering beautiful views. Antigonea's prosperity was short-lived, as it was destroyed in 167 BC by the Romans. Despite its destruction, the city continued to exist as a small settlement for centuries. Today, the Archaeological Park of Antigonea stands as a testament to Albania's rich historical tapestry, blending cultural heritage with natural beauty.

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