Apollonia

The highlight is the restored façade of the Monument of the Agonothetes, with its graceful Corinthian columns, which served as the council house of the city’s officials. Around it you can explore a small theatre, the Odeon, the remains of a long stoa, the Nymphaeum fountain house and stretches of the ancient city walls, all spread across a peaceful park of olive trees and meadows.

Next to the ruins stands the Monastery of St Mary, with its Byzantine church, frescoes and arcaded courtyard. The monastery buildings today house the site museum, where statues, reliefs, inscriptions and everyday objects found at Apollonia help bring the ancient city back to life.

Apollonia fits easily into a day between Berat and the coast. You can visit it on our Berat City and Apollonia Park Day Tour, and it is also a stop on the Full Albanian Experience: A 10 Day Tour. Nearby sights such as the Ardenica Monastery, the ruins of Byllis and the Karavasta Lagoon make the area rewarding for anyone interested in history and nature.

The site is spread out and has little shade, so wear comfortable shoes and bring water. Spring and autumn are the most pleasant seasons, and Apollonia is at its best in the soft light of the late afternoon.

Gallery photos: Marmontel (CC BY 2.0), Pasztilla aka Attila Terbócs (CC BY-SA 4.0), Carole Raddato (CC BY 2.0), Pasztilla aka Attila Terbócs (CC BY-SA 4.0), Carole Raddato (CC BY-SA 2.0), Pasztilla aka Attila Terbócs (CC BY-SA 4.0) · Wikimedia Commons