Antigonea Archaeological Park
Gjirokastër
Antigonea Archaeological Park preserves the ruins of Antigonia, an ancient Greek city founded in the 3rd century BC in the region of Chaonia, Epirus, now southern Albania. The city was strategically situated on a nearly impregnable hill 600 meters above sea level, overlooking the Drino valley and controlling mountain passes and access to the sea. Its urban layout follows an orthogonal Hippodamian plan, with an exposed ancient street running through the city center. The most striking remains are the city walls, which once encircled the hill and include a prominent southwestern gate and well-preserved southern sections. The acropolis crowns the northern hill. The site also features the ruins of an early Christian triconch church decorated with a mosaic floor depicting a human figure with an animal head, possibly representing Saint Christopher or an Egyptian deity. Antigonia was destroyed by the Romans in 167 BC after siding with the Macedonians during the Second Macedonian War and was never rebuilt. Archaeological finds such as a bronze sphinx and a Poseidon statue reflect its cultural richness. The park offers visitors a glimpse into the city's historical significance and architectural heritage within a scenic mountainous landscape.
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Tip: The best time to visit Antigonea Archaeological Park is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and the natural surroundings are vibrant. Visitors should consider arranging guided tours to fully appreciate the site's historical context and archaeological features. Tickets may be available for purchase on-site, but checking ahead for any discounts or group rates is advisable. The park's elevated location means comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and visitors should prepare for some uphill paths. Nearby villages like Saraqinisht offer additional cultural sites such as historic churches and monasteries that can enrich the visit.
Interesting facts
- •Antigonea was built on an almost impregnable hill 600 meters above sea level, controlling access to the Drino valley and the sea.
- •The city was destroyed by the Romans in 167 BC and never rebuilt, marking the end of its ancient prominence.
- •A mosaic floor in an early Christian church at the site depicts a human figure with an animal head, resembling Saint Christopher or the Egyptian god Anubis.
- •Artifacts such as a bronze sphinx and a statue of Poseidon found at Antigonea are exhibited in Tirana museums.
- •The city’s layout follows the Hippodamian orthogonal plan, with an exposed ancient street still visible in the archaeological park.
History
Antigonea was founded in the 3rd century BC, possibly by Pyrrhus of Epirus, who may have named it after his wife Antigone.
It became the chief inland city of the Chaonians and held a strategic military position overlooking the Drino valley.
During the Second Macedonian War in 198 BC, the city sided with the Macedonians against the Romans.
After Roman victory in 167 BC, Antigonea was destroyed by order of Consul Aemilius Paullus and was never rebuilt.
The site remained inhabited into the early Christian period, evidenced by a church with mosaics, until it was destroyed during Slavic invasions in the 6th century AD.
Modern archaeological excavations began in the 20th century, revealing the city's layout and artifacts.
Place Guide
City Walls and Southwestern Gate3rd century BC
The most impressive remains of Antigonea are its city walls, which once encircled the hilltop. The southwestern gate is the most visible entrance, showcasing ancient defensive architecture and strategic design.
Early Christian Triconch ChurchEarly Christian period (circa 4th-6th century AD)
Located at the southern end of the city walls, this small church features a mosaic floor with a unique depiction of a human figure with an animal head, possibly Saint Christopher or Anubis. It represents the last known building phase before Slavic invasions in the 6th century AD.
Ancient Street and City Center3rd century BC
The city center was built on an orthogonal Hippodamian plan, with an entire ancient street exposed for visitors. This layout reflects advanced urban planning principles of the Hellenistic period.
Acropolis on the Northern Hill3rd century BC
The acropolis, located on the northern hill, was the city's fortified high point, serving as a defensive and administrative center.