Did you know that Augustus, the Romanian emperor, studied Philosophy in Apollonia? And this place is 13 miles from the city of Fier, in Albania. Apollonia was an ancient Greek colony city and former bishopric in Illyria. It is located on the right bank of the Vjosa river. Apollonia’s ruins are situated in the Fier region, near the village of Pojani.
The fascinating landscape of the archeological park has been preserved in an exceptionally condition. It comprises a successful combination between the beauty of monuments and nature. Apollonia is attractive through its long history, in an atmosphere of relaxation and meditation.
The city’s foundation took place immediately after the foundation of Epidamnus – Dyrrachium. It quickly became one of the most eminent cities of the Adriatic basin.
The city lay in the territory of the political communion of the Taulanti, and it was broadly known as Apollonia of Illyria.
The city was founded during the first half of the 6th century BC. It was founded by Greek colonist from Corfu and Corinth, led by Gylax, which named the city after his name (Gylakeia).
After its quick establishment the city changed its name to Apollonia, according to the powerful divinity Apollo. It stands on a hilly plateau from where expands the fertile plain of Musacchia, with the Adriatic Sea and the hills of Mallakastra.
The ruins of Apollonia are discovered in the beginning of the 19th century.
The city flourished during the 4th century AD as an important economic and trade center. Over time it was expanded over the whole hilly slope including an area of ca. 81 ha, surrounded by a large wall of 3 km of length and 3 m of width.
History
Although Apollonia was situated few kilometers away from the Adriatic Sea, its position on the right bank of the Vjosa, enabled its communication with the coastal part of the territory. In the two hilltops dominating the city stands the temenos area (the sacred area around the temple of Apollo) and the Arx (military citadel). Between the two hilltops were situated the public buildings of the ancient city, which continued to experience a period of grandeur and splendor under the successive roman rule (since 229 BC).
The fame of the city attracted many personalities of the largest empire of the ancient world. For instance, the eminent roman philosopher and orator Cicero, which noted Apollonia in his Philippics as magna urbs et gravis (a great and important city). During this period, the city became one of the most important gateways of the transbalkanic Via Egnatia. In its famous Academy has studied and underwent military training Octavianus, accompanied by Agrippas, the eminent general and statesman of the Roman Empire.
After a long period of continuous economic and cultural development Apollonia fell into decline. Later, the decline continued until its total abandonment during the medieval period. The culture and the general development of the city maintained a clear Greek character throughout its existence. However, the independent economic and politic activity determined a distinctive physiognomy of the apollonian culture. Moreover, the city had close relationships with the Illyrian hinterland.
In addition, tourists can visit The Museum of Archaeology, situated at the old Monastery of Saint Mary.
Fun Fact
The ancient city of Apollonia has become such a popular spot for wedding pictures. In particular, couples seeking to testify their love among its ruins.
