The forum dates to the early Byzantine period, around the 6th century AD, and is associated with Emperor Anastasius I, who was born in Dyrrachium. When it was first excavated, the complex was thought to be a macellum, or market, but archaeologists now generally interpret it as a public forum, comparable to the circular forums of Constantinople.
At its centre lies a circular paved square about 40 metres across, which was once enclosed by a Corinthian colonnade. Today a number of columns and column bases still stand around the edge, alongside the remains of a small rotunda that may once have supported a statue, as well as traces of service and commercial buildings. The site can be viewed easily from the surrounding streets and is just a short walk from the Roman Amphitheatre, the Archaeological Museum and the Venetian Tower.
It makes a fine addition to a walking tour of ancient Durrës, especially when combined with the city’s other monuments.
