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Apollonia
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Landmark
Founded in 588 BC by settlers from Corinth and Corcyra, Apollonia was once a flourishing metropolis of 60,000 citizens. It was a renowned center for students of philosophy, including the future Roman Emperor Augustus, who was studying here when Julius Caesar was assassinated. The archaeological park features the iconic 2nd-century AD Agonothetes monument, a well-preserved odeon, and the remains of a library. A unique feature of the site is the 13th-century Monastery of Saint Mary, built with ancient stones from the city ruins, which now houses an impressive Archaeological Museum in its cloisters. The city eventually fell into decline after an earthquake diverted the Vjosa River, turning the surrounding fertile land into marshes. Today, the site has a serene atmosphere where ancient Greek and Roman history blends with medieval Byzantine art. It is located near the city of Fier and provides sweeping views across the Adriatic coastline.
- Location: Albania
- Top sights: Pillar · North-East Gate · Library
- Nearby: Levan (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 10 | 10 | 12 | 15 | 18 | 23 | 26 | 26 | 22 | 19 | 15 | 11 |
| Rain mm | 103 | 90 | 82 | 61 | 57 | 36 | 22 | 26 | 80 | 98 | 123 | 128 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The archaeological site of Apollonia is open year-round. The ruins are freely accessible outdoors.
Typical hours
Typically the site is open from morning until late afternoon. Exact hours vary by season.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the site. Commercial shoots require a permit.
Time needed
Allow about 1.5 to 2 hours for a thorough visit. The site is extensive but rewarding.
Combine with
Combine your visit with the nearby city of Fier, which also houses an Archaeological Museum.
Getting there
Apollonia is about 12 km east of Fier, easily reached by car or taxi. Public buses run irregularly.
Insider tip
Visit early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and crowds. Bring plenty of water.
Geography
Facts
- Founded in 588 BC
- Where Emperor Augustus studied
- Iconic Agonothetes monument
- Archaeological Museum in a monastery
- 13th-century St. Mary's Monastery
- Remains of an odeon and library
- Once had over 60,000 inhabitants
- Abandoned after a massive earthquake
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Apollonia (5)
Apollonia Archaeological Park📍 landmark
The Apollonia Archaeological Park showcases the ruins of an ancient Greek city located in Apollonia.
🌐 apolloniaarchaeologicalpark.al🕒 Mo-Su 08:00-17:00
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is Apollonia located?
The ancient city is located near Fier in central Albania, about 12 km from the sea.
What are the main sights in Apollonia?
The Bouleuterion (Monument of the Agonothetes), the Odeon, and the Monastery of Saint Mary with its museum are the highlights.
How long does a visit take?
You should plan for about 1.5 to 2 hours to visit the archaeological park and the museum.
Is there a restaurant there?
Yes, there is a well-known restaurant on the grounds offering a great view over the Myzeqe plain.
Who founded the city of Apollonia?
The city was founded in the 6th century BC by Greek colonists from Corinth and Corfu.
Apollonia: where is it located?
Apollonia is located in Albania.
Apollonia: what is there to see?
Highlights include Pillar, North-East Gate, Library.
Apollonia: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.
Apollonia: why is it worth visiting?
Founded in 588 BC by settlers from Corinth and Corcyra, Apollonia was once a flourishing metropolis of 60,000 citizens.
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