Introduction
Nestled in the heart of modern-day Albania, the ancient city of Apollonia stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Greek civilization. Founded in 588 BC by Greek colonists from Corfu and Corinth, Apollonia quickly rose to prominence as a center of trade, culture, and learning. Today, the well-preserved ruins of this once-thriving metropolis offer visitors a captivating glimpse into the world of the ancient Greeks and the subsequent Roman era.
The Founding of Apollonia
Apollonia was established during a period of extensive Greek colonization along the Adriatic and Ionian coasts. The 6th century BC saw the foundation of numerous Greek settlements in the region, including Epidamnos (modern-day Durrës) and Orikos. The strategic location of Apollonia, situated on the right bank of the Aous (Vjosë) River, made it an ideal spot for a new colony.
The Greek colonists, led by Gylax, likely chose the site for its fertile agricultural land, access to trade routes, and potential for developing a thriving port. The city was named after the Greek god Apollo, who was revered as the patron deity of the colony.
City Layout and Architecture
Apollonia was built according to the principles of Greek urban planning, with a grid-like system of streets and well-designed public spaces. The city was surrounded by a 4 km long wall, which provided defense and defined the urban boundaries. Within these walls, various temples, public buildings, and residential areas were constructed, showcasing the architectural prowess of the ancient Greeks.
One of the most impressive structures in Apollonia was the Temple of Agonothetes, dedicated to Apollo. The temple‘s ruins still stand today, featuring striking Doric columns and intricate carvings. Other notable buildings include the 2nd-century odeon, which served as a venue for musical performances and public gatherings, and the city council building, or bouleuterion, with its well-preserved facade.
Economic and Commercial Significance
Apollonia‘s strategic location along the Aous River and its proximity to the Adriatic Sea made it a vital hub for trade and commerce. The city‘s port facilitated the exchange of goods between the Greek world and the Illyrian hinterland, with Apollonia serving as a key link in the trade routes connecting Greece, Italy, and the Balkans.
Archaeological evidence suggests that Apollonia exported a wide range of goods, including agricultural products, pottery, and metalwork. The city‘s economic prosperity is reflected in the high-quality imported goods found at the site, such as Attic red-figure pottery and luxury items from the Greek mainland.
The School of Philosophy
One of Apollonia‘s most remarkable features was its renowned school of philosophy, which attracted scholars and students from across the Greek world. The school was particularly influential during the Hellenistic period (323 BC – 31 BC) and was known for its focus on Aristotelian philosophy.
The most famous student of the Apollonian school was Augustus, the first Roman emperor. According to historical accounts, Augustus studied at Apollonia for several years before returning to Rome to claim his inheritance following the assassination of Julius Caesar. The presence of such a notable figure at the school underscores its significance in the intellectual life of the ancient world.
Roman Apollonia
As Rome‘s influence expanded in the region, Apollonia came under Roman control in 229 BC. The city maintained its importance during the Roman period, serving as a strategic port and a key point along the Via Egnatia, the major Roman road that connected the Adriatic Sea to the Bosphorus.
Under Roman rule, Apollonia continued to thrive, with new public buildings and infrastructure added to the cityscape. The Roman period also saw the construction of a grand triumphal arch, which still stands today as a symbol of Apollonia‘s enduring legacy.
Decline and Abandonment
Despite its long history of prosperity, Apollonia‘s fortunes began to wane in the later Roman period. The city‘s decline was accelerated by an earthquake in 234 AD, which altered the course of the Aous River and silted up the harbor. As the city‘s economic and strategic importance diminished, its population gradually decreased.
By the late antiquity period (4th-6th centuries AD), Apollonia had lost much of its former glory. The city was eventually abandoned, its once-thriving streets and buildings left to the ravages of time.
Archaeological Investigations
The ruins of Apollonia were rediscovered in the early 19th century by European travelers and scholars. The first archaeological excavations at the site were conducted by French archaeologist Léon Rey in the 1920s, revealing the city‘s rich history and architectural splendor.
Subsequent excavations by Albanian and international teams have continued to uncover new aspects of Apollonia‘s past. Recent discoveries include a well-preserved Roman villa with intricate mosaics and a complex water supply system that served the city‘s needs.
Visiting Apollonia Today
Today, Apollonia is a must-see destination for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. The site is easily accessible from the nearby city of Fier, with regular bus connections and guided tours available.
Visitors can explore the extensive ruins, including the impressive temple of Agonothetes, the odeon, and the city council building. The on-site Museum of Archaeology, housed in the former Monastery of Saint Mary, displays a rich collection of artifacts unearthed from the site, providing a fascinating glimpse into the daily lives of Apollonia‘s ancient inhabitants.
For those seeking a more immersive experience, the nearby village of Pojan offers a range of accommodation options, from charming guesthouses to modern hotels. The village also serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding region, with its picturesque landscapes, traditional cuisine, and warm hospitality.
Conclusion
Apollonia stands as a powerful reminder of Albania‘s rich cultural heritage and its deep connections to the ancient Greek and Roman worlds. As visitors walk among the city‘s well-preserved ruins, they are transported back in time, experiencing the grandeur and sophistication of this once-thriving metropolis.
Through ongoing archaeological research and conservation efforts, Apollonia continues to reveal new secrets about its past, offering a fascinating window into the lives of its ancient inhabitants. As a testament to the enduring legacy of Greek civilization, Apollonia remains a beacon of light, illuminating the complex and captivating history of the Balkan region.
Additional Information
Table 1: Apollonia at a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Near Fier, Albania |
| Founded | 588 BC |
| Founders | Greek colonists from Corfu and Corinth |
| Size | 137 hectares (338 acres) |
| Key Landmarks | Temple of Agonothetes, Odeon, City Council Building |
Table 2: Notable Figures Associated with Apollonia
| Name | Role | Time Period |
|---|---|---|
| Gylax | Founder of Apollonia | 6th century BC |
| Augustus | Roman emperor, studied at Apollonia‘s school of philosophy | 1st century BC |
| Aristotle | Greek philosopher, influential in Apollonia‘s school of thought | 4th century BC |
Getting There
- By car: 30-minute drive from Fier via the E853 and SH4 roads
- By bus: Regular services from Fier to Pojan, then a short walk to the site
- On foot: 20-minute walk from the center of Pojan along the SH66 road
Visitor Information
- Opening hours: Daily, 9:00 am – 7:00 pm (as of 2024)
- Admission: 700 Albanian Lek (approx. €5) for adults
- Guided tours: Available in multiple languages
- Recommended visit duration: 3-4 hours
Sources:
- Cabanes, P. (2008). "Greek Colonisation in the Adriatic." In Tsetskhladze, G. R. (Ed.), Greek Colonisation: An Account of Greek Colonies and Other Settlements Overseas (Vol. 2). Brill.
- Ceka, N. (2013). The Archaeology of Albania. Tirana: Centre for Albanological Studies.
- Dimo, V., Lenhardt, P., & Quantin, F. (2007). Apollonia d‘Illyrie: 1. Atlas archéologique et historique. École française d‘Athènes.
- Wilkes, J. J. (1992). The Illyrians. Oxford: Blackwell Publishers.
