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Via Egnatia: A Journey Through Time

Walk the ancient path of emperors and apostles: Explore the Via Egnatia in Kavala, a journey through Roman history and stunning vistas.

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The Via Egnatia, an ancient Roman road, once connected the Adriatic Sea to Constantinople, traversing what is now Albania, North Macedonia, Greece, and Turkey. In Kavala, a well-preserved section offers a glimpse into this historic route, which facilitated trade, military movements, and the spread of culture for centuries.

A brief summary to Via Egnatia

  • Kavala, 654 03, GR

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the preserved section of the Via Egnatia features stone pavement that can be uneven.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the Archaeological Site of Philippi, a major city linked to Kavala by the Via Egnatia.
  • Take advantage of the scenic views along the route, especially the views of Kavala and its fortress.
  • Visit the Tourist Information Center near Eleftherias Square for the latest information on the miniature train that provides access to the Old Town.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The most accessible section of the Via Egnatia in Kavala begins near the Egnatia Hotel, at the intersection of Egnatia and Makedonia Streets. From Eleftherias Square, walk uphill along Egnatia Street. The path is well-marked and offers a pleasant walk with views of the city. The walk to Jokaste Street takes approximately 15-20 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From Kavala's KTEL bus station, take a local bus towards the city center. Get off at a stop near Eleftherias Square. From there, walk uphill along Egnatia Street to find the start of the accessible Via Egnatia section. Bus tickets cost approximately €1.50.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Kavala. A short taxi ride from the KTEL bus station or the port to the Egnatia Hotel area, where the accessible section of the Via Egnatia begins, will cost approximately €5 during the day. Ensure the meter is running or agree on a fare beforehand.

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Discover more about Via Egnatia

The Via Egnatia, constructed in the 2nd century BC, was a vital artery of the Roman Empire, linking the Adriatic coast with Byzantium (later Constantinople). Named after Gnaeus Egnatius, the proconsul of Macedonia who commissioned its construction, this road served as a crucial route for trade, military campaigns, and the dissemination of Roman influence throughout the Balkans. In Kavala, a significant section of the ancient Via Egnatia has been preserved. This section connected Neapolis (the ancient name for Kavala) with Philippi, a major city of the Roman Empire. Walking along this path, visitors can experience the same route taken by Roman soldiers, traders, and even the Apostle Paul, who used it to reach Philippi and establish the first Christian church in Europe. The well-preserved stone pavement offers a tangible connection to the past, allowing one to imagine the bustling activity that once characterized this vital thoroughfare. As you walk, enjoy the beautiful views of the town and its fortress, gaining a sense of what travelers saw in ancient times. The route is easily accessible and presents no particular difficulties, making it suitable for a short and easy walk. Today, the ancient Via Egnatia is divided into two sections due to modern highway construction. One section runs from Agios Silas to the village of Stavros, offering views of the Philippi plain. The other, more interesting section, begins at the intersection of Egnatia and Makedonia Streets, near the Egnatia Hotel, and ends at Jokaste Street.

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